NFT double decks in its quest for climate change
26/11/09
Demonstrating that ‘Thinking Ahead’, is at the forefront of its philosophy, NFT launches a revolutionary bespoke temperature-controlled double deck trailer for time critical food logistics. Custom built for a complete one stop ‘manufacturer to retailer’ solution, this is the first chilled trailer of its kind.
Commencing its maiden journey this week, the first trailer of the new fleet departed NFT’s flagship Daventry depot to distribute sandwiches to the award-winning retailer, Marks and Spencer on behalf of premium chilled food producer Uniq.
The food miles per Uniq sandwich delivered will be slashed by over 30% as a result of this initiative; that’s over 500,000 miles per year saved - equivalent to 631 tonnes of CO2.
The concept was first developed 9 months ago as part of NFT’s dedicated approach to a sustainability strategy and the business has invested circa £1m to date.
Reinforcing NFT’s role as the intelligent link between manufacturer and retailer, the project has been co-ordinated between producer, retailer and equipment suppliers Montracon.
NFT was awarded the contract to distribute Uniq’s sandwiches to M&S just 3 months ago. A key reason for NFT winning the business was due to its innovative approach, a foundation for the long-term relationship that has been formed.
David Frankish, CEO for NFT comments “NFT is a true pioneer in developing these trailers. Their introduction not only accelerates our low carbon agenda but also further streamlines the supply chain. Historically, some companies have trialled similar projects but have never succeeded due to the significant investment and unique specifications required operationally and technically for both the retailer and manufacturer. This achievement re-emphasises why NFT is at the forefront of time critical logistics”.
Anthony Quinn, Logistics Manager at Uniq and the first customer to benefit from the initiative said: “This is a win win situation for all partners- environmentally and operationally. The introduction of the trailer is strategically aligned with M&S’s climate change commitment; Plan A which aims to reduce CO2 emissions. Operationally this solution means we can increase capacity whilst ensuring the stacking of trays remains the same as it would with single deck trailers. This is of huge benefit at depot level”.
Frankish concludes “Climate change and operational efficiency go hand in hand at NFT. We consider our green credentials to be an integral part of our business as usual approach. Where others may be daunted by the challenge, we act. This investment clearly places NFT at the forefront for best practice in the logistics arena”.