Marks & Spencer has announced the addition of 85 zero or low-emission vehicles to its logistics fleet as part of its Plan A commitment to achieve Net Zero by 2040. This investment aligns with the retailer’s goals to transition to low-carbon logistics and adopt cleaner fuels and advanced technologies. Among the new vehicles are five fully electric HGVs that will operate between the Welham Green distribution centre and 30 stores across London and the South East, replacing equivalent diesel trucks.

The battery-electric HGVs are part of the UK Government's eFREIGHT 2030 initiative, designed to decarbonise road freight by promoting the use of zero-emission heavy goods vehicles and supporting infrastructure. As a founding member of the programme, M&S will gain valuable data on the performance of electric HGVs to guide future fleet decisions, while continuing to introduce cleaner fuels and lower-emission alternatives.

In addition to electric vehicles, M&S has introduced compressed natural gas (CNG) lorries to its Clothing & Home and Food logistics operations. This includes the UK’s first 6×2 CNG trucks and 50 4×2 CNG vehicles powered by biomethane, a renewable fuel that reduces CO2 emissions by up to 85% compared to diesel engines. Once operational, these 85 vehicles will account for nearly 10% of M&S’s transport fleet.

M&S remains committed to reducing its carbon footprint through innovation and collaboration. Julian Bailey, Head of Group Transport, emphasised that adapting logistics operations is key to meeting sustainability goals while ensuring efficient delivery of products. Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood praised M&S’s efforts, highlighting the government’s substantial investment in zero-emission technologies to support the transition to a greener future.