UPS employs two wheels, two feet and the River Thames for Games deliveries

UPS has revealed it will be using bicycles, couriers on foot and London’s waterways in a bid to minimise delivery disruption during the Games period.

Following successful trials in January and February in multiple postcodes around central London, the US logistics giant has decided to incorporate a fleet of bicycles into its operation, which will be able to access most nearside Games Lanes on the designated Olympic Route Network.

The company will also transport freight from a warehouse at the Port of Tilbury in Essex along the River Thames by barge to a drop-off zone near the Olympic Park, as well as hiring couriers to deliver items on foot in congested areas.

Cindy Miller, MD at UPS UK, Ireland and Nordics, says: “Bicycles were actually a foundation to our business over 100 years ago; when a few messenger boys began the business which became UPS today.  It’s extremely exciting for us to go back to our roots with the announcement of our bike programme today, which will play such a crucial role in helping us deliver the most sustainable Games possible.”

Last month, UPS also announced the introduction of 10 dual-fuel biomethane/diesel LGVs into its fleet, as well as dedicated electric vans for Olympics work.