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Aug 01 2024

London businesses embrace public transport, reducing van fleets for greater efficiency

In a bid to navigate the challenges of operating in London’s congested urban landscape, some businesses are opting to reduce their van fleets in favour of having technical engineers use public transport, according to the Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP).

 

The AFP reports a growing trend where companies are shifting their operational models. Instead of engineers driving vans loaded with tools and parts, parts are shipped directly to customers’ addresses in advance. Engineers then travel with only a portable toolkit, utilising the city’s public transport network to reach their destinations.

Paul Hollick, chair of the AFP, emphasised that while this is not yet a widespread practice, it is gaining traction in London and could be feasible in other major UK cities. “Driving, maintaining and storing vans in concentrated urban areas is increasingly difficult,” he said. “Some businesses are exploring new solutions, such as using public transport for engineers, which can be more efficient in mega cities where the best way to move people is often by tube, train or bus.” Read more

 

Source: LOGISTICS MANAGER