M&S Advances Net Zero Goal with 85 Low-Emission Vehicles in Supply Chain

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- Marks & Spencer (M&S) adds 85 lower-emission vehicles to its supply chain as part of its Net Zero by 2040 strategy.
- The new fleet includes five zero-emission electric HGVs and 80 compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks powered by biomethane.
- M&S’ updated fleet aims to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 85% compared to diesel alternatives.
Marks & Spencer (M&S) has unveiled a significant step in its Plan A Net Zero by 2040 initiative, adding 85 lower-emission vehicles to its logistics fleet. This move underscores the retailer’s commitment to cleaner, low-carbon transport solutions.
Key Details:
M&S’ latest investment includes five zero-emission battery electric heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) set to operate between the Welham Green Clothing & Home distribution center and 30 key stores across London and the South East, including Oxford Street and Bluewater. The 42-tonne electric Renault trucks will directly replace diesel equivalents.
The initiative is part of the UK Government’s Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator Programme (ZEHID), which seeks to decarbonize road freight by accelerating the adoption of zero-emission HGVs and associated charging infrastructure.
Julian Bailey, Head of Group Transport at M&S, emphasized the importance of innovation: “Adapting our logistics network is vital in achieving our Plan A Net Zero ambitions. We’re committed to reducing carbon emissions from our transport and, through collaboration, we can reduce carbon, save energy, and drive operational efficiencies across the business.”
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In addition, M&S has introduced 30 new 6×2 compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks in partnership with IVECO, marking the first deployment of this vehicle type in the UK retail sector. These trucks run on biomethane, a renewable fuel sourced from waste products such as food waste and animal manure, which cuts CO2 emissions by up to 85% compared to diesel engines. This follows the successful rollout of 50 4×2 CNG trucks in its Gist Food logistics operations.
Government Backing:
Lilian Greenwood, Future of Roads Minister, praised M&S’ commitment: “We’re working with businesses to lead the charge towards innovative zero-emission vehicles. That’s why it’s fantastic to see M&S add five zero-emission electric lorries to their fleet thanks to our £200 million investment in large zero-emission trucks – the biggest investment of its kind in the world.”

Once fully operational, nearly 10% of M&S’ transport fleet will use zero or lower-emission solutions. Earlier this year, M&S announced additional investments through its Plan A Accelerator Fund, including a trial to produce green hydrogen from wind and solar power, aimed at replacing fossil fuels.
M&S’ continued focus on low-carbon logistics reinforces its leadership in sustainable operations while aligning with broader governmental efforts to achieve net-zero emissions and support a clean energy transition.
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