Van-tastic as Co-op deliveries go electric

The firm’s move comes as it looks to replace its fleet of fossil-fuelled vans.

The Whitby store will take delivery of electric vehicles early next year to enable groceries ordered through Co-op’s own online shop.

Chris Conway, head of eCommerce at Co-op, said: “Our focus is to continue to innovate and look for new and better ways to do business in our communities and to expand access to our products and services.

“In addition to offering quality and value quickly, easily and conveniently, we need to do this sustainably, and by replacing all our own vehicles and working collaboratively with partners with shared values we can ensure we further reduce greenhouse gas emissions which is essential if we are to have a healthy and sustainable natural environment to pass on to future generations.”

Co-op became the first British retailer to become a signatory of the UN’s ‘Our Only Future’ campaign, and is committed to minimising its environmental impact.

It also sources only 100% renewable electricity for all of its food stores, offices and funeral homes.