Why AkzoNobel Tapped XPO to Reduce Logistics Emissions
AkzoNobel, which looks after some of the world's most recognisable paint brands, has deployed its first 100% electric trucks and urban trailer fleet, together with a HVO-powered fleet, thanks to a partnership with XPO Logistics.
The company, whose brands include Dulux, International, Sikkens and Interpon, stands to reduce transport emissions by more than 50% and save approximately 3,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.
The move directly supports AkzoNobel's SBTi target to reduce Scope 1 emissions by 50% by 2030 against a 2018 baseline.
AkzoNobel leads the charge
Enlisting the services of XPO represents a landmark moment for AkzoNobel.
It becomes the first paint brand in the UK to deploy large-scale electric heavy goods vehicles (eHGVs) under the government's ZEHID programme.
The transformation will deliver annual carbon savings in three key areas:
- Vehicle efficiency improvements: 300 tonnes of CO2 reduction
- Euro 6 engines and electric vehicles: 700 tonnes of CO2 reduction
- HVO fuel adoption: 2,000 tonnes of CO2 reduction
These combined savings of 3,000 tonnes annually equate to removing more than 650 average passenger cars from UK roads for a year.
Two fully-electric trucks are set to operate from AkzoNobel's Slough site to serve London and the surrounding areas.
These vehicles will deliver a 100% reduction in direct CO2 emissions while in operation and contribute to lower noise and air pollution.
Meanwhile, a new HVO-powered fleet will operate nationwide, ensuring significant carbon footprint reductions in both long and short-haul journeys.
Sustainability-driven innovation in action
AkzoNobel's latest logistics procurement serves as the latest step in its Paint the Future initiative, which places sustainability-driven innovation as a key pillar of business.
The company achieved 100% renewable purchased electricity in its UK operations and a 41% reduction in Scope 1 emissions in 2024.
The new fleets will deliver new cutting-edge low-emission products, including 99.9% VOC-free Dulux Easycare and Dulux Walls and Ceilings, alongside improved water-based Dulux One Coat Satin, helping customers to enhance their own environmental credentials.
Kathryn Ledson, MD Decorative Paints UKI at AkzoNobel, says: "The launch of our new electric and HVO-powered fleets is a proud milestone in our sustainability journey.
"At AkzoNobel, we are committed to painting the future by taking bold forward-thinking action – not only though the innovative and sustainable products we create for our customers, but also through how we function as a business.
"This investment is a clear demonstration of how we are delivering on our science-based targets and taking responsibility for our impact. The announcement builds on our strong history of embedding sustainability at the heart of our operations, product portfolio and partnerships".
XPO Logistics is a leading provider of innovative and sustainable end-to-end logistics across Europe.
It specialises in sustainable end-to-end logistics and pioneering freight decarbonisation through advanced multi-modal transport solutions and alternative energy expertise.
With established success in sustainable logistics, XPO brings the ideal capabilities to help AkzoNobel modernise its transport operations, reduce emissions and advance towards net-zero goals.
Dan Myers, Managing Director – UK and Ireland at XPO Logistics, adds: "AkzoNobel and XPO Logistics are united by a belief that real progress is built on action, not aspiration.
"By delivering measurable, large-scale emissions reductions through our logistics partnership, we're turning shared values into shared results."
