Logistics specialist Menzies Distribution has acquired London-based Gnewt Cargo, the all-electric delivery provider, for an undisclosed sum.

Gnewt, which was founded in 2008, provides final-mile delivery services in central London for retailers, e-tailers and parcel carriers such as Hermes and TNT.

Last year, it made more than three million deliveries in London using its all-electric fleet of commercial vehicles.

The deal supports Menzies Distribution’s diversification strategy and progresses the company’s plans to extend its neutral parcel consolidation services across the UK and Ireland.

Menzies also aims to offer Gnewt’s brand of environmentally-friendly distribution to existing customers for whom more sustainable logistics support has a growing appeal.

Greg Michael, managing director, said: “As a holder of the Carbon Trust Standard since 2009, Menzies Distribution has long been focused on our environmental responsibilities.

"Acquiring Gnewt was an exciting opportunity for us to advance our sustainability agenda while growing our neutral consolidation offer to the parcel market.

“Everyone recognises that goods need to be moved in and around congested city centres.

"The Gnewt model shows it can be done successfully whilst minimising environmental impacts.

“This acquisition gives us a stronger, cleaner presence in the London market. and with our national reach, gives us a platform to introduce all-electric distribution to other city centres in the UK.”

In recent years, Menzies Distribution has invested in and diversified its operations beyond the traditional newspaper and magazine distribution market, gaining ground in e-commerce and logistics growth sectors. Menzies Parcels now delivers more than three million items per year.

Menzies has also strengthened its portfolio of retail logistics contracts, which include the three year national contract for WH Smith’s national network of 1200 stores, and a UK-wide contract with catering equipment supplier Nisbets.

Author: Fleet News