Zero-emission truck for Cricklade packaging manufacturer

GWP Group has invested in its first fully electric delivery vehicle.

Operating out of the packaging manufacturer's North Wiltshire production and warehousing site, the zero-emission 4.2-tonne EV Luton van will be used by GWP to deliver corrugated cardboard products to their customer base across the South west of England.

The move has been supported by the installation of four charging points at GWP's Cricklade headquarters, allowing charging of the van and other company cars.

Operations Manager James Pedley said: "We are delighted to have our first fully electric delivery vehicle up and running. 

"Not only will this significantly help us to reduce our carbon emissions, but it will ensure we maintain the high level of service that our customers rely on.”

The ongoing switch to electric vehicles will also be complemented with new route planning software and a driver education and incentive programme to further reduce fuel usage of the existing fleet.

Mr Pedley added: "We are making real strides in reducing fuel consumption at our business, and the changes to customer deliveries are a big part of that. Zero emission electric vehicles and the work being put in behind the scenes play a crucial role in driving these improvements."

GWP has implemented several other initiatives to reduce carbon emissions. This includes switching to LED lighting, improving recycling processes and engaging with staff across the business on how further progress can be made. 

All of GWPs electricity is currently procured from renewable sources and the company is also looking at plans to install its own solar panels on site.

Managing Director Ruth Cook said: "Sustainability is the most pressing consideration for not only us as a business, but for the vast majority of our customers too. 

"Starting the switch to electric vehicles, alongside the wide range of other initiatives already implemented across our business, is another step towards minimising our environmental impact."

The Macfarlane Group, which GWP became a part of in 2021, also added a 16-tonne EV articulated truck and four 3.5-tonne EV Luton to their fleet earlier this year. 

Fraikin has supplied the vehicles, which will operate from several of Macfarlane's Regional Distribution Centres around the UK.

GWP Group currently employs around 100 people across two sites in Wiltshire - Cricklade and Salisbury - and designs and manufactures a wide range of bespoke packaging products. 

The wider Macfarlane Group has more than 1,000 employees, with sales of £230m in 2022 across the UK and Europe.