Global logistics provider AMCO has invested significantly in its UK transport fleet to accommodate increased customer demand and changing market conditions. In addition, it’s another step closer to rolling out its sustainability-focused ‘road map to the future’ project.
The Redditch-based business, which operates globally, has seen a shift towards a more sustainably-focused UK logistics industry in recent years. Electric vehicles and the adoption of solar technology have received most of the attention.
DRIVING SUSTAINABILITY AND DIGITALISATION
Since the Pandemic, the UK logistics landscape has changed somewhat. Increased fuel costs, a driver shortage, container shortages, port congestions and changes in GB Customs have all played their part.
These headwinds have steered many UK logistics companies to double down on their sustainability and digitalisation efforts in a bid to maintain customer satisfaction levels and remain competitive in a sector that has seen profit margins come under increasing pressure of late.
UK TRANSPORT FLEET FLEXIBILITY is KEY
Mark Jones, AMCO’s Operations Director comments; “We recognise the need to remain flexible in order to meet the constant change in customer requirements as a result of wider market conditions.”
Mark continues: “To stay ahead of the curve, AMCO now utilise a mix of company-owned vehicles that comprise solar technology to help reduce CO2 emissions, and leased vehicles that enable us to react accordingly to market demands without affecting internal operations or planned contract work.”
UK TRANSPORT FLEET INVESTMENT
To maintain fleet reliability and utilise the latest in today’s ‘green’ technology, AMCO has invested in 16 brand-new DAF XF 44T trucks, supplied by Asset Alliance Group. In fact, 5 are already in the yard at AMCO Park ready for business. The remainder will arrive before the end of August 2022, ready for deployment across AMCO’s UK warehousing/distribution network.
SOLAR TECH ADOPTION
Working closely with solar energy equipment suppliers and in partnership with truck suppliers, AMCO continues to champion the use of solar technology across its transport fleet. Fitting solar mats to the roof of trailers is a fine example.
Solar mats reduce vehicle fuel consumption, which in turn reduces CO2 emissions. Additionally, when combined with AMCO’s Transport Management System (TMS), further fuel and CO2 savings are realised through vehicle route optimisation.
EV INFRASTRUCTURE A BARRIER
Studies carried out by AMCO determined the infrastructure in the UK isn’t quite ready for an industry-wide gas and electric truck rollout. This is mainly due to truck mileage limitations and a lack of charging stations. However, AMCO continues to take the necessary steps to be ready when it is.
Mark Jones comments: “It’s crucial we grow our business with sustainability at the forefront of our thinking.”
GET IN TOUCH
Need a world-class logistics, customs or warehousing solution? Get in touch!