The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

Dutch dairy cooperative FrieslandCampina has taken a significant step towards sustainable dairy logistics with the recent opening of a fast-charging station for an electric milk transport truck in Gerkesklooster. The truck, operated by logistics partner Melkweg | Fritom, has been actively collecting milk in the region since its deployment last week.

The initiative, which features a fully electric truck running around the clock, aims to reduce the environmental impact associated with traditional diesel-powered milk transport. At the opening ceremony, key figures from FrieslandCampina and Melkweg | Fritom were present, including project leader Folkert de Groot and drivers from the logistics team.

Initial reports indicate promising operational efficiency; the electric truck retains about 30% of its battery capacity after a typical nine to ten-hour shift. The fast charger enables a complete recharge within two hours, ensuring the vehicle is ready for continuous operation.

Drivers have expressed satisfaction with the vehicle's performance, highlighting its quiet operation as a notable benefit, which is also appreciated by local dairy farmers.

This move aligns with FrieslandCampina's broader sustainability goals. The company’s logistics operations currently account for approximately 28 million kilograms of greenhouse gas emissions annually, primarily due to the 32 million kilometres covered by its diesel trucks in the Netherlands.

Transitioning to electric vehicles represents a critical strategy in mitigating these emissions, especially as FrieslandCampina explores favourable energy contracts to support this shift.

The success of this pilot programme will be closely monitored in the coming months, with plans for potential expansion of the electric fleet across other FrieslandCampina locations contingent on positive outcomes in Gerkesklooster.