Shepherd Neame invests in two new electric delivery trucks to reduce emissions in its operations

Independent family brewer and pub company Shepherd Neame has teamed up with distribution partner GXO Logistics and Renault Trucks to introduce two electric HGVs into its operations.

The new 42-tonne trucks complete around 10 trips per day, moving kegs, casks and bottles between Shepherd Neame’s historic brewery in the heart of Faversham and its distribution centre just over a mile away on the outskirts of the town. 

In addition to reducing emissions by saving 1,148 litres of diesel every month, the vehicles have also reduced noise pollution as they travel through the centre of the town.

Shepherd Neame’s Director of Property Development and Sustainability Martin Godden said: “As a company we are committed to doing the right thing for our communities, our people and our environment, and recently introduced our People, Pubs and Planet strategy which includes reducing our net zero carbon for direct emissions by 2030. This investment is aimed at helping us to ensure our operations are as environmentally friendly as possible.”

GXO has been Shepherd Neame’s distribution partner since 2023, distributing beer, wines, spirits and minerals to its estate of 289 pubs and hotels across Kent, London and the South East, along with more than 250 customers across the country. 

Chris Hyde, Managing Director for Food and Beverage, GXO UK and Ireland, said: “It’s brilliant to be working with Shepherd Neame and Renault to expand our fleet of electric vehicles. These new trucks not only help us reduce the carbon footprint of our partnership, but they are a significant step in our commitment to finding more sustainable logistics solutions for our customers. We know the transition to alternative fuels presents challenges to the industry, but this is a great example of how we can implement EVs into an operation and instantly make it more eco-friendly.”

Carlos Rodrigues, Managing Director of Renault Trucks UK & Ireland said: "We’re proud to see the first E-Tech Ts on the road with GXO and Shepherd Neame, supporting their shift to more sustainable transport. It’s great to see Britain’s oldest brewer embracing the future of zero emission trucks today. Their commitment to decarbonisation sends a clear signal, and we hope others across the industry will follow their lead.”

Find out more about Shepherd Neame’s People, Pubs and Planet strategy at www.shepherdneame.co.uk/sustainability 

Pictured above: l-r: Richard King, Shepherd Neame Logistics and Supply Chain Manager; Giles Hilton, Shepherd Neame Head of Customer Relations; Chris Hyde, Managing Director for Food and Beverage, GXO UK&I; Simon Calado, Renault Trucks Energy Transition Manager; Jessica Sawbridge, Renault Trucks Electromobility Customer Experience Manager