DHL Supply Chain  has said recruiting some 115 retailers and businesses into its Bristol and Bath consolidation centre has “surpassed its expectations”.

The Avonmouth-based hub, was launched in May 2004 with the backing of Bristol City Council. Its aim was to reduce pollution and congestion in both city centres. In June this year it consolidated 97 truck deliveries into the hub, to 20 onward deliveries into Bath itself.

DHL also said it had reduced CO² emissions by 130 tonnes through its use of two electric vehicles on its onward routes. Backloads are also filled with recycling which is processed at the depot.

Damian Pike, vice-president of innovation at DHL Supply Chain, said: “ The success of the scheme in decongesting the city centres has surpassed our expectations and can easily be replicated to bring these environmental benefits to other cities. We feel this is a great showcase for others to follow.”

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