Sustainable chocolate delivery: Barry Callebaut’s bold move to electric trucks
Embracing green logistics, Barry Callebaut is transitioning its fleet to electric trucks between Wieze and the Global Distribution Center in Lokeren optimizing traffic flows and enhancing the company’s environmental footprint.
In an era where sustainability isn’t just an option but a necessity, Barry Callebaut, the world’s leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products, is setting a groundbreaking precedent. Embracing green logistics, Barry Callebaut is transitioning its fleet between Wieze and the Global Distribution Center in Lokeren from diesel to electric trucks. This strategic move not only optimizes traffic flows but also significantly enhances the company’s environmental footprint.
The electrification journey: A strategic approach
Understanding customer needs
“Everything starts with understanding our customers’ charging needs,” states Svetlana Nikolayonok, Business Developer at WDP Energy. By meticulously mapping out these requirements, WDP invests in on-site charging infrastructure, ensuring seamless integration into Barry Callebaut’s logistics operations. This customer-centric approach is the bedrock of their sustainable logistics strategy.
Overcoming charging challenges
The primary challenge? Constant truck usage with minimal downtime for charging. “The trucks are in constant use, with very little time to recharge,” says Wannes van Rysselberghe, Logistics Manager at Barry Callebaut Global Distribution Center. The solution involves innovative planning and the installation of high-capacity charging stations, ensuring uninterrupted 24/7 operations.
A warehouse built for sustainability
Barry Callebaut’s warehouse is a marvel of sustainable engineering, designed to support the company’s “Forever Chocolate” strategy. Spanning 60,000 m², the facility is entirely energy-neutral and boasts a BREEAM Outstanding certificate. Key features include:
- Solar Panels: Generating approximately 4 megawatts peak of solar energy.
- Low Life-Cycle Cost Materials: Ensuring long-term sustainability.
- Geothermal Energy: Providing efficient heating and cooling solutions.
- Electric Vehicle Charging Stations: Supporting the new electric car and truck fleet.
- Cyclist Facilities: Encouraging eco-friendly commutes.
This forward-thinking design allows Barry Callebaut to utilize surplus solar energy for charging their electric trucks, further embedding sustainability into their logistics operations.
High-Power charging solutions
To facilitate the electrification of logistics transport between Wieze and Lokeren, Barry Callebaut has installed two Alpitronic Hyperchargers, each with a capacity of 300kW. “These chargers ensure the trucks can be recharged quickly and efficiently, maintaining the 24/7 operations,” explains Bart van der Pluym, CEO of 50Five, the specialist in charging and climate solutions involved in this project.
Addressing electrification concerns
Many logistics professionals still harbor doubts about electrifying their fleets. Svetlana Nikolayonok addresses these concerns head-on: “Investments in charging infrastructure are indeed significant, but WDP takes them entirely upon itself. This ensures our clients are fully supported, maintaining the efficiency of their operations without financial strain.”
Barry Callebaut’s transition to electric logistics, facilitated by WDP’s strategic investments, exemplifies a successful marriage of sustainability and operational efficiency. This project not only showcases the potential of renewable energy solutions in logistics real estate but also serves as an inspirational blueprint for the industry.
By embracing innovative solutions and forward-thinking strategies, Barry Callebaut and WDP are leading the charge toward a greener, more efficient future in logistics. It’s a testament to how strategic investments and sustainable design can transform logistics operations, ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for all.
About Barry Callebaut
The Barry Callebaut Group is the world’s leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products. From sourcing raw materials to producing the finest chocolates, Barry Callebaut is the heart and engine of the chocolate industry, aiming to be the number one in all attractive customer segments. As a fully vertically integrated B2B company with a strong presence in cocoa-origin countries, Barry Callebaut boasts a unique global footprint, driving the chocolate industry forward with innovation and excellence.