Tradeteam, DHL's drinks logistics arm, is on course to cut its CO2 emissions by 5% by the end of this year. Following an environmental audit in 2007, finance director Matt Crampton led the implementation of an environmental improvement strategy, addressing both transport and property.
Initiatives have included aero kits, reduced top speeds on primary distribution, and efficient driving training. Environmental champions were also chosen at each of Tradeteam's 30 UK sites.
Crampton says: "The progress we made in 2008 has been very satisfying and we're determined to build on that. Staff have bought into the concept of addressing how much fuel and energy we use and offering practicable solutions that have worked well."
Tradeteam is now being used by DHL to demonstrate best practice to its sister divisions.
Meanwhile, Tradeteam has secured a 10-year contract with Coors Brewers worth more than £500m. The secondary distribution agreement marks an extension of a 13-year partnership between the two firms and follows the renewal of its primary distribution contract with Coors, worth £140m.
Tradeteam has also secured a three-year contract with InBev in Northern Ireland, creating 70 jobs. It includes stock management, storage and distribution of Tennent's, Stella and Becks to trade outlets.