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Martin Brower, a prominent supply chain solutions provider for global restaurant chains, is receiving ten additional Volvo VNR electric vehicles. These new vehicles will support food and beverage deliveries to select McDonald’s restaurants in the greater Montreal and Toronto areas. This expansion aligns with McDonald’s global commitment to reduce its carbon footprint through the adoption of alternative-fuel vehicles.
Key Highlights
- Martin Brower and McDonald’s Collaboration: As a key distributor, Martin Brower partners with McDonald’s to advance sustainability goals.
- Expansion of Electric Fleet: The addition of ten Volvo VNR Electric vehicles to Martin Brower’s fleet follows a successful trial of the first zero-tailpipe emission tractor in 2022.
- Geographical Coverage: Seven vehicles will operate in the greater Toronto area, and three will serve the greater Montreal area from the Baie d’Urfé distribution center.
- McDonald’s Net-Zero Commitment: McDonald’s aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions globally by 2050.
Matthew Blackman, managing director for Canada at Volvo Trucks North America, stated, “It’s exciting to see a powerhouse brand like McDonald’s working with their partners to help decarbonize the transportation of goods.” He emphasized the reliability of the Volvo VNR Electric, which has proven itself capable of handling routine routes and large product loads.
Trial and Expansion
The first Class 8 Volvo VNR Electric tractor was part of a trial to assess its performance in the Montreal area. Following this initial success, McDonald’s Canada and Martin Brower have now deployed ten more electric vehicles. Hope Bentley, head of supply chain at McDonald’s Canada, expressed satisfaction with the expansion, noting that it supports McDonald’s global pledge to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Julie Dell’Aniello, president of Martin Brower Canada, highlighted the long-standing collaboration between the two companies, emphasizing their shared commitment to testing alternative-fuel vehicles. Martin Brower has been partnering with McDonald’s since 1956, delivering products to the first McDonald’s restaurant in Des Plaines, Illinois.
Support and Service
To ensure the vehicles are optimized for their routes, Martin Brower collaborated with Vision Truck Group, a Volvo Trucks Certified Electric Vehicle Dealer. Vision Truck Group utilized the Electric Performance Generator (EPG) tool to specify the ideal truck configurations based on route and environmental factors. The vehicles based in Baie d’Urfé will be serviced by Camions Volvo Montreal, while those in Toronto will be serviced by Vision Truck Group.
Bottom Line
McDonald’s commitment to net-zero emissions and its collaboration with Martin Brower mark a significant step towards sustainable logistics. The expansion of the Volvo VNR Electric fleet demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of electric vehicles in reducing carbon emissions within the supply chain.
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