Salad business shoots for environmental boost

Hampshire-based salad business Vitacress is replacing its transport fleet in a bid to boost environmental performance – reported by Transport Engineer – 14th November 2013

Ryder is supplying Vitacress with 29 new trucks and five new trailers on a five-year contract hire. The equipment includes 24 tractors, 10 of which are 44-tonne Mercedes-Benz units and 14 are 38-tonne DAFs.

The deal also includes three DAF 26-tonne trucks. As part of the arrangement, Vitacress has also sold its existing fleet of 28 fridge trailers to Ryder and is now leasing them back.

The new fleet is equipped with Microlise telematics technology, aimed at improving driver behaviour and increasing fuel efficiency. Microlise provides drivers with live feedback to optimise performance levels.

As part of the agreement, Ryder is carrying out routine maintenance and repairs at its Newbury depot and a fitter now visits the Vitacress depot near Andover, during working hours, as part of the contract.

“Our delivery record to customers is among the best in the industry,” comments Vitacress distribution and logistics manager Kelly Fraser.

“The new fleet and Microlise telematics system will enable us to improve environmental performance while enhancing our service to customers,” he adds.

The Vitacress fleet covers almost 2.5 million miles each year, travelling between farms, packing centres, distribution centres and airports, as well as delivering to customers from southern England to Scotland.