A British food producer has signed a contract with a zero-carbon cold chain provider for road transport refrigeration, following fleet operations demonstrating 81% cost savings over diesel.

Sunswap, the British manufacturer of Endurance transport refrigeration units, today announced the delivery of multiple battery and solar-powered units to Cranswick’s Preston site. Cranswick, one of the UK’s largest farm to fork food producers, joins a growing network of operators running zero-emission refrigeration across food manufacturing, retail, and logistics, advancing their ‘Second Nature’ sustainability strategy and science-based targets.

For companies with ambitious sustainability targets, transport refrigeration represents both a significant challenge and an immediate opportunity. Traditional transport refrigeration burns thousands of litres of diesel a year, generating CO2 emissions and harmful local pollutants such as NOx and particulate matter. Sunswap enables the complete elimination of these emissions while reducing operational costs.

When Cranswick ran Endurance in their own operations in 2024, Endurance demonstrated 81% lower running costs and 43% total cost savings compared to diesel refrigeration. Additionally, when tested against HVO fuel – already a cleaner alternative to standard diesel – Sunswap still came out ahead, eliminating all NOx and particulate emissions while maintaining the cost advantages.

“Cranswick joins the growing number of operators choosing zero-emission refrigeration for UK food manufacturing”, said Michael Lowe, Chief Executive Officer, Sunswap. “What’s significant here is that Cranswick didn’t just compare us to standard diesel. They compared Endurance against their existing HVO solution, and the operational benefits were compelling. This shows that even companies already investing in lower-carbon fuels can achieve breakthrough improvements with purpose-built electric refrigeration”.

Gary Hewson, Transport Manager, Cranswick commented, “integrating Sunswap’s zero-emission refrigeration technology aligns perfectly with our Second Nature sustainability commitments. Beyond the benefits of direct emissions reduction, the operational cost savings and performance reliability made this a sound business decision that supports our progress towards our Science Based Targets.”

The Endurance units will be used to transport temperature-sensitive meat products from Cranswick’s manufacturing facilities to retailers across the UK, ensuring product quality while eliminating emissions from refrigeration throughout the journey.

similar news

Trailer Refrigeration Taken to Next Level with Advancer, Claims Thermo King

Continental has developed an ultracompact transport robot that transports stacked small load containers (SLCs) of up to 300 kg fully automatically. The NXS 300 ensures immediately deployable automation: no infrastructure modifications to existing floor-roller tracks are needed, and thanks to native VDA 5050 integration, the NXS 300 plugs seamlessly into existing AMR fleets. It delivers top speeds of up to 2 m/s and safe omnidirectional movement thanks to its 360-degree view.

The NXS 300 comes in two versions: the base version with a 600 mm fork length for classic 400 x 600 mm SLCs on carts and the extended version with an 800 mm fork length for half-pallets to effectively double the capacity per trip. Unveiled at LogiMAT 2025 in Stuttgart, it will be available in early 2026. The NXS 300 is currently being piloted in internal projects at Continental locations in Rheinböllen (Germany) and Sibiu (Romania), with more to follow until the end of the year. First project evaluations indicate a return on investment within well under two years.

“With this small-load solution, we are further expanding our AMR portfolio for Industry 4.0 applications. Tighter floor plans, increasing product variants and cost pressures are among the most pressing problems facing production and logistics managers. With its versatility and compact build, the NXS 300 provides an answer,” says Malte Kersten, head of Continental Mobile Robots. “It expands our portfolio with a flexible small-load solution and strengthens our position as a reliable partner for Industry 4.0 – aligned with our mission of ‘Making Things Easy’”

Ultracompact design for maximum flexibility

Real-time data and increasing product variants are driving the pace in smart factories. Production managers and logistics leaders must adapt material flow quickly for new products and batch sizes. Consequently, conventional Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) are hitting their limits – they remain static and are not flexible enough to change and scale with production layouts. The NXS 300 bridges this gap with an ultracompact design (1,100 × 405 × 1,025 mm) and broad adaptability. The base version, with a fork height of only 110 mm, is compatible with over 80 percent of carts available in the market. It lifts them via an integrated lift platform at sources and sinks, enabling highly efficient material flow. Omnidirectional drives allow on-the-spot rotations, while 360-degree sensors with obstacle detection ensure safe manoeuvres even in mixed-traffic scenarios in narrow aisles. Continental’s new AMR combines AGV and AMR modes for great versatility. Its flexible system configuration allows seamless adaptation to various process requirements and production layouts.

Extended version doubles the transport volume per trip

The extended version builds on this mature base system, adding a fork extended by 200 mm. This enables it to handle stacked half-pallets (800 × 600 mm) or combinations of different SLC types – doubling the transport volume per trip and maximizing transport efficiency. Beyond their technical capabilities, the NXS 300 variants deliver a compelling return on investment (ROI). By automating the transport of SLCs, they reduce manual handling, minimize process interruptions and enhance overall efficiency. Companies can expect a significant reduction in operational costs and an ROI within six to 24 months, depending on the specific application and deployment scale.

“Thanks to full VDA 5050 interoperability, the system integrates seamlessly into existing intralogistics environments. Our strong focus on cost-effectiveness enables customers to achieve a rapid return on investment. Backed by our deep expertise in robotics and automotive engineering and our global track record in industrializing complex technologies, we provide an innovation for scalable, future-proof automation,” says Alessandro Castagnotto, head of Product Line Intralogistics at Continental Mobile Robots.

Comprehensive service to facilitate operations

The ergonomic, user-friendly human-machine interface (HMI) enables intuitive operation and maintenance, while local service teams and a 24/7 hotline guarantee maximum system availability. Proactive maintenance cycles minimize downtime and ensure continuous operation.

To help customers stay ahead of evolving production requirements, future extensions of the NXS300 family are already in development, such as a top-roller variant with an active conveyor to take and deliver SLCs directly from conveyors. These will broaden the range of applications covered by the platform and enable users to address future automation needs and maximize intralogistics efficiency – all within the same familiar system architecture and service environment.

similar news

Continental Adds Tiger Trailers to Fleet

Inotec is proud to introduce its latest innovation in smart labelling – RFID Inmould Labels – a durable, high-performance solution that offers permanent identification and real-time tracking for reusable containers, even in the most demanding environments.

Bringing together the advantages of RFID Auto ID and in-mould labelling, Inotec’s RFID Inmould Labels offer durability, accuracy and sustainability. Developed in-house and tested in live customer applications, they are already helping leading logistics and packaging companies move away from single-use plastics while gaining full transparency across their supply chains.

Smart tray tracking at scale

A recent collaboration with EPT (Euro Plant Tray) demonstrates the real-world benefits of this solution. In the plant wholesale sector, over 95% of trays are currently single-use, contributing to around 40,000 tonnes of discarded plastic waste each year in Europe alone. EPT sought a reusable alternative that could deliver both environmental gains and digital traceability.

Working with EPT, Inotec developed a customised RFID inmould label that is seamlessly bonded to the reusable tray during injection moulding. This label offers exceptional durability – it is flush with the surface, waterproof, UV-resistant, and resistant to cleaning chemicals and mechanical impacts. Despite its compact size, it delivers a high-performance read range and allows bulk scanning of up to 1,000 trays simultaneously, with no line-of-sight required.

EPT’s trays now feature a secure, embedded RFID label that supports real-time tracking, inventory management, and cross-border reuse. The RFID inmould label is helping EPT reduce waste, optimise its processes, and set a new European standard for smart, reusable transport packaging.

Advanced performance, built to last Inotec’s RFID inmould labels are based on its own INO-TAG DIOBOND range and incorporate high-performance NXP RAIN RFID chips.

Key benefits include:

● High-speed scanning – multiple tags can be read simultaneously, even at distances of up to 15 metres
● No line-of-sight required – increasing speed and accuracy while reducing labour
● Secure, high-capacity data storage – with the ability to store encrypted tracking and logistics data
● Extremely durable – scratch-proof, smear-proof, waterproof and resistant to chemicals and temperature fluctuations
● Fully recyclable – made from the same material as the container for easier recycling
● Reduced energy use – thanks to in-mould’s one-step automated production process

Ideal for regulated and high-compliance sectors RFID inmould labels are particularly suited to industries where hygiene, traceability and security are critical. In food and pharmaceuticals, the edgeless bond eliminates contamination risk and withstands freezing, washing and sterilisation. IML is also compliant with strict FDA regulations and prevents label tampering or counterfeiting, which is critical for protecting intellectual property and public health.

“With RFID Inmould Labels, we’re combining durability, traceability and environmental responsibility in one powerful solution,” says David Stocker, General Manager at Inotec. “As seen with EPT, this technology helps our customers meet growing regulatory demands, streamline their processes and take a major step towards a circular economy.”

similar news

Line Marking and Floor Tags in new Healthcare DC

Palletways, one of the UK’s leading palletised freight networks, has announced plans to relocate its national headquarters and core operations to a new purpose-built 640,000 sq ft facility at Fradley Park, Lichfield, Staffordshire.

Developed in partnership with Prologis UK, the project will consolidate Palletways’ operations, create space for future growth, and raise the bar for sustainable logistics buildings in the UK. The new site, located a short distance from the company’s current site at Fradley Park, will look to consolidate their operations in the area. Around 250 existing jobs will be secured for the Lichfield area, with the new facility set to create clear opportunities for further employment growth in the years ahead.

Palletways has been based in Lichfield since 1994, when it first established its operations in the UK. What began as a single site has grown steadily over the past three decades into a network that now supports more than 140 independent members and handles close to 6 million pallets each year.

Rob Gittins, Managing Director of Palletways UK, said: “Our decision to remain in Lichfield reflects the strength of our connection to the area and the role it has played in our success over the past 30 years. This new facility represents the next step in that relationship — creating space for growth while keeping us firmly rooted in the place where we began.”

By consolidating operations into a single, purpose-built site, Palletways will reduce handling times, improve tracking accuracy, support earlier finish times and more reliable delivery windows. The additional space and flexibility will also allow the business to trial new technologies and streamline logistics processes — helping its independent members operate more efficiently and deliver stronger service to their own customers.

Gittins added: “It has been clear for some time that we are outgrowing our existing site at Fradley Park, which has served us so well for nearly 30 years. We began looking at how we could secure local jobs with minimum disruption, create opportunities for long-term growth, and further strengthen our commitment to sustainability. We’re very excited about these plans, developed in partnership with Prologis, which reinforce all of those objectives. Our new headquarters will allow us to build on our service levels, provide better facilities and training opportunities for our staff, and offer even greater support to our members.”

A key factor for Palletways in selecting Prologis as development partner was the company’s ability to deliver sustainable logistics buildings that meet both environmental and operational needs — a close fit with Palletways’ ambitions for its new headquarters. This, backed by Prologis’ robust balance sheet and access to capital means that the development could be delivered for Palletways with confidence, once planning approval is in place.

The 640,000 sq ft facility will be delivered by Prologis and target BREEAM Outstanding and EPC A+ standards, placing it among the top-performing industrial buildings for energy efficiency. Features will include a 600kWp+ rooftop solar PV array, smart metering, rainwater harvesting, and high-efficiency systems to reduce both emissions and running costs. The new HQ has been designed with employee wellbeing and community connectivity in mind. The building will feature warehouse skylights to maximise natural light, alongside secure cycle parking and EV charging to encourage more sustainable commuting. A dedicated amenity space for Palletways workers will include soft and hard landscaping, seating and a covered area. A new cycleway and footpath, winding through natural landscaping and featuring native species will improve local access between Fradley and Streethay, creating benefits beyond the building itself.

Paul Weston, Regional Head at Prologis UK, said: “This is a development that supports jobs, productivity and sustainability in equal measure. It reflects the ambitions of a long-standing logistics leader, while also contributing to a cleaner and more efficient built environment. It also aligns with the UK’s broader goals to modernise infrastructure, support regional growth and enable more sustainable ways of working. By investing in high-quality logistics facilities outside major city centres, projects like this help strengthen local economies and future-proof the country’s supply chain network.”

The proposals are currently subject to planning approval. A public consultation is now underway, with a planning application expected to be submitted to Lichfield District Council in summer 2025. Subject to approval, construction is expected to begin in 2026, with occupation targeted for 2027.

similar news

Property Developer P3 Wins Debut Build-to-Suit in Italy

From frozen food to pharmaceuticals, the cold chain plays a crucial role in keeping temperature-sensitive goods safe, fresh, and effective, writes Diana Davoyan. However, it is also one of the most energy-intensive segments of the supply chain. Cold storage facilities can consume up to three times more energy than ambient warehouses, and refrigerated transport adds a further carbon burden.

The good news? Cold chain automation is no longer just about speed and operational precision – it is rapidly becoming a key enabler of sustainability. As companies face growing pressure to decarbonise, cold chain logistics is undergoing a quiet transformation.

This traditionally energy-heavy sector is evolving into a more sustainable, efficient, and climate-conscious system.

The Sustainability Problem (and the Opportunity)

The conventional cold chain is challenged by three major sustainability issues:

● High energy use from refrigeration, lighting, and HVAC systems
● Product loss and waste due to temperature fluctuations, spoilage, and human error
● Carbon emissions from diesel-powered transport and inefficient warehouse operations

With rising energy costs and increasing focus on ESG goals, businesses can no longer ignore these inefficiencies. Fortunately, automation offers a powerful solution.

How Cold Chain Automation Supports Sustainability

Automated cold storage systems – such as ASRS (Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems) – are often compact, high-density, and fully enclosed. These systems reduce the volume of air that needs to be cooled, resulting in significantly lower refrigeration demand.

When paired with smart zoning and AI-powered climate controls, automated facilities can dynamically adjust cooling only where and when it’s needed – cutting down on unnecessary energy usage.

Reduced Waste, Increased Accuracy

Real-time monitoring systems in automated warehouses continuously track temperature and humidity. If any parameter deviates from set thresholds, alerts are triggered immediately. This helps to:

● Minimise spoilage
● Reduce packaging and product waste
● Avoid the environmental and financial costs of lost goods

In industries such as food and pharmaceuticals, where safety and compliance are non-negotiable, this level of precision is critical.

Smaller Environmental Footprint

Automated storage solutions typically allow for vertical integration, maximising space within the existing footprint of a facility. This not only increases storage capacity but also reduces the need for new warehouse construction – along with its associated emissions and resource consumption.

Diana Davoyan

Greener Transport and Smart Routing

Cold chain automation isn’t limited to storage. It also extends to transportation:

● AI-driven route planning helps reduce mileage and fuel consumption
● The adoption of electric and hybrid refrigerated vehicles is accelerating
● Some logistics hubs are integrating with on-site renewable energy sources, like solar panels, to power both storage and charging infrastructure

Data-Driven Sustainability

One of the most powerful advantages of automation is the ability to collect and analyse granular data. Businesses can now track:

● Energy usage per pallet or unit
● Refrigeration efficiency trends
● Carbon emissions per delivery
● Compliance with sustainability benchmarks and regulations

This data not only helps identify inefficiencies but also provides the transparency required for ESG reporting and sustainability certifications.

What’s Next for the Greener Cold Chain?

The future of sustainable cold chain logistics is being shaped by several emerging technologies, including:

● Battery-powered and solar-assisted refrigerated vehicles
● AI-optimised HVAC systems that adapt in real time to changing internal and external conditions
● Passive cooling innovations, such as phase change materials used in packaging
● Carbon-neutral warehouses powered entirely by renewable energy sources

As these innovations continue to scale, automation will be essential for managing complexity while maintaining operational efficiency. Ultimately, the future of cold chain logistics will hinge on how boldly organisations embrace automation – not only as a performance driver, but as a key enabler of long-term sustainability.

similar news

Collaboration to Transform Cold Chain Transport

1. A Single Platform for Multi-Modal Freight

2. Built-In Financial Control and Compliance

3. Real-Time Visibility Without Manual Chasing

4. CRM and Sales Automation for Forwarders

5. Digital Connectivity with Stakeholders

6. Multi-Branch and Multi-Country Scalability

7. Cloud-Based, Zero Downtime Architecture

Additional Capabilities That Set Logi-Sys Apart

Choose for the Future, Not Just the Present

Online power-tool retailer, UK Planet Tools, has invested early in ‘right-size’ packing automation to remove constraints on growth and build-in flexible capacity for peak. Starting out in 2010 as a local retailer of high-quality tools and fixings, serving customers in and around Milton Keynes, UK Planet Tools has grown rapidly to become one of the largest online suppliers to the building trade for power-tools and related products. Thousands of orders a day are shipped to customers across the UK.

As with most ecommerce businesses the speed and efficiency of the pick, pack and dispatch operation is vital, making all the difference to customer satisfaction levels and potential sales – particularly, at peak. For the managing director of UK Planet Tools, Bohdan Hrystayenko, this was an aspect of the business where he could see automation bringing significant cost savings combined with an uplift to productivity and it was the packing operation that held the greatest potential for a fast return on investment (ROI).

Labour savings

Having spoken with Sparck Technologies, Hrystayenko was aware of the major benefits, in the form of labour and materials savings, that could come from using automated ‘right-size’ boxing technology. Sparck Technologies’ CVP Impack auto-boxing system has the capability to tailor-make up to 500 boxes per hour, for multiple or single item orders, using advanced 3D scanning technology to optimally size, create and label each parcel in one seamless process – reducing package volumes by up to 50%, cutting cardboard usage by 30% and eliminating the need for void fill.

The technology was perfect for UK Planet Tool’s varied product profiles and mixed order quantities. The CVP Impack was highly flexible, capable of scanning and making boxes to the exact size needed for single item orders or multiple items, time and time again.

Why wait?

“This machine was exactly what we wanted,” says Hrystayenko. “Even though our daily throughput was only about half the capacity capable of the CVP Impack we knew we could reap enormous benefits from installing the machine now, rather than waiting. We were confident that with this machine in place we would have the operational flexibility and extra capacity to grow, without any fears over hitting peak volumes or trying to find additional labour. It was the right thing to do.”

An order for a CVP Impack was placed at the beginning of November 2024 and installed on 17th December, with ‘right-size’ packages rolling off the machine just two days later. “Space in the warehouse was tight but with some creative thinking from ourselves and Sparck we made it work. It was an incredible feat, supplying and installing the whole system in just eight weeks,” he says.

Big benefits

“The benefits for our business have been enormous,” says Hrystayenko. “With each box now custom-made to fit the exact dimensions of every order, we’ve eliminated the waste of shipping empty space. This alone has saved us 40% on consumables and material costs. Our reliance on manual labour has dropped significantly, transforming what was once a labour-intensive packing process. Like many ecommerce businesses, Mondays are our busiest days. Previously, we had to start early to clear the weekend backlog, but now we don’t begin until 8am. Thanks to the CVP Impack, just two operators can manage 250–300 packages per hour, removing the need for overtime and extra staffing.”

But for Hrystayenko, the most significant benefit from purchasing the Sparck’s CVP Impack has been the uplift in customer service, enabling a 5pm cut-off for a next-day delivery – a reliable fulfilment capability that builds customer confidence and wins new business. “The Trustpilot reviews have been glowing green ever since,” says Hrystayenko. “In fact, I calculate that had we installed the CVP Impack before the autumn peak we could have done 1.5x the business we did. This machine has given us the opportunity to grow the business. There’s no stopping us now.”

similar news

Right-size Auto Packaging