Oakland International has announced its first investment in electric Heavy Goods Vehicles (eHGVs), marking a significant milestone in developing fully electric, low-carbon, end-to-end supply chain solutions delivered by its Oakland Distribution network. This investment supports the company’s ambition to operate logistics routes powered exclusively by electric vehicles.
With operations across strategically located depots in Redditch, Bardon, Corby, Knottingley, Skelmersdale and Dublin, Oakland International delivers fully integrated multi temperature logistics to every major UK and Irish retailer. The company’s scale and reach mean innovations such as eHGV deployment can be rolled out rapidly, amplifying their environmental impact across a nationwide distribution network.
Contributing to a national network of charging stations which can help link various parts of the UK, the move builds on the company’s investment in operating a 100% electric refrigerated trailer fleet, powered by Eco-Drive technology that converts engine power into electricity for temperature-controlled units.
Oakland International Sustainability Officer Elinor Smith commented: “Pressure is increasing on supply chains to decarbonise, and with the likelihood of additional charges in urban and inner-city locations through schemes such as ULEZ, organisations are paying far closer attention to their carbon impact. Our investment in eHGVs is a natural next step in reducing transport emissions while supporting our customers’ sustainability goals.”
As a Certified B Corporation and long standing champion of ethical and environmentally responsible logistics, Oakland International has embedded sustainability into every aspect of its business model. From contract packing and case consolidation to chilled, frozen and ambient distribution, each service is underpinned by investments in renewable energy, solar capacity, electric and hybrid technologies, and waste reduction programmes.
Safat Chowdhury, Head of Expansions and Special Projects at HIVED added: “As the UK’s only all-electric and B Corp certified parcel delivery company, we share Oakland International’s ambition to accelerate the transition to genuinely low-carbon logistics.
“Our partnership over several years, spanning EV capacity, charging infrastructure and reusable packaging, has shown what’s possible when like-minded businesses collaborate. The addition of eHGVs into Oakland’s fleet not only deepens that partnership, but also expands the electric vehicle options available across the middle and final mile, building on the eHGV capability already operating within HIVED’s own fleet.”
The company’s pioneering Distress Load Management (DLM) service continues to lead the UK market in preventing food waste, an area of growing national focus. Working with retailers, manufacturers and charities, Oakland has helped save millions of meals from going to waste, further reinforcing its commitment to people, planet and responsible business practice.
Forming a central part of Oakland’s long-term net zero strategy, the shift to electric HGVs addresses transport, the most significant contributor to the company’s carbon footprint, and responds directly to rising customer demand for low-carbon logistics solutions and transparent emissions reporting.
The company’s adoption of Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 and 400 truck models enable efficient, predictable operation on fixed routes, where electric vehicles deliver the strongest performance and lowest running emissions. To integrate the eHGVs into nationwide operations Oakland will expand fast-charging capacity across its network and form strategic partnerships to enable remote charging, enhancing reliability and route planning.
Oakland’s mission is built around partnership, collaboration and innovation, supporting businesses of all sizes with flexible, transparent and cost effective supply chain solutions. Its emphasis on real time stock visibility, reliable delivery performance and sustainable growth ensures customers benefit not only from operational excellence but from a logistics partner aligned with their own environmental goals.
Oakland Distribution delivers multi-temperature logistics across the UK and Ireland, operating a fleet spanning 44-tonne articulated vehicles, rigids and multi-temperature vans, supporting retail, wholesale, convenience and foodservice channels.
Added Elinor: “This initial investment in eHGVs strengthens our wider programme of sustainable innovation and reinforces our position as one of the sector’s most ethical and environmentally focused supply-chain leaders.”
A Certified B Corporation, Oakland International is a specialist in multi-temperature supply-chain solutions, providing services including storage, distribution, contract packing, consolidation and direct-to-consumer delivery. The business is also recognised for its award-winning distress load management service, leading the market in reducing food waste across the supply chain.
Oakland International Ltd
t: 01527 596 222
e: sales@oakland-international.com
w: www.oakland-international.com
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