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CDS Superstores, which trades as The Range, Wilko and Homebase, has forged a landmark partnership with Gregory Distribution, which sees the company using two fully electric DAF HGVs to serve its UK store network for the first time.
The trucks form part of a wider initiative led by Gregory Distribution to achieve net zero by 2038.
As part of the Government’s Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator (ZEHID) programme, both Gregory and CDS Superstores will contribute real-world data to inform the future of electric transport in the logistics sector.
CDS Superstores has worked closely with Gregory Distribution to integrate the electric trucks into routes between its distribution centres and stores.
Thanks to the rapid charging capabilities at CDS’ Stowmarket hub, the vehicles can complete double shifts – which the retailer said is a crucial requirement for its fast-paced, high-volume business.
After one driver completes a shift, the vehicle is recharged and ready for the next driver on the same day, delivering performance that rivals traditional diesel HGVs without the emissions.
The investment is a significant milestone for CDS Superstores, the retailer said, marking a step forward for the brand’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact while maintaining the scale, speed and reliability required by its customers.
Alex Simpkin, CDS Superstores chief executive, said: “We’re extremely proud to be among the very first UK retailers rolling out fully electric HGVs on the road.
“Sustainability is a growing focus for our business and customers, and this partnership with Gregory Distribution allows us to take a tangible step forward.
“With zero tailpipe emissions and reduced noise pollution, these electric vehicles align with our environmental goals and mark the beginning of a more sustainable journey for our supply chain.”
Paul Jefferson, Gregory Distribution group legal, risk & sustainability director, added: “The transport sector is the highest contributor to UK greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 26%, and heavy and light goods vehicles alone make up over 10% of this. We firmly believe it’s our responsibility to lead the way in changing those statistics.
“Electric HGVs have traditionally faced challenges around range and payload, but these new vehicles are breaking the stigma and the feedback from our drivers has been hugely positive.
“Each vehicle has been specified to meet CDS Superstores’ unique operational requirements, eliminating tailpipe emissions and reducing air and noise pollution, which is valuable for deliveries to the urban areas where many of The Range’s stores are based.”
