DX, the logistic partner of IKEA, has announced a substantial investment of £3 million towards the acquisition of new electric vehicles for their delivery and logistics partnership with the renowned furniture retailer. This latest funding will enable DX to incorporate 53 electric vans by Maxus into the existing fleet, marking the second round of electric vehicle investments made by DX for IKEA.
In autumn 2022, DX initiated a deal with IKEA, pledging to establish a fleet of electric vehicles for home deliveries in Northern Ireland and the United Kingdom within three years. The venture commenced with a £750,000 investment, resulting in the introduction of twelve vans. Consistent with the previous agreement, DX has once again chosen the Maxus e-Deliver 9 vans, effectively expanding the fleet to a total of 65 vehicles.
The newly acquired electric vans will be operational from six DX/IKEA depots located in Heathrow, Milton Keynes, Reading, Sheffield, Southampton, and Willenhall. Emblazoned with the branding of both partners, these vans will contribute to the achievement of IKEA’s sustainable delivery objectives.
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Boasting a load capacity of 1,162kg and an impressive range exceeding 219 miles, the Maxus eDeliver 9 vans will be readily identifiable with their distinctive DX and IKEA branding.
DX has been collaborating with IKEA for more than seven years, utilizing the group’s logistics services to support both their online and retail operations. Additionally, DX holds the distinction of being IKEA’s largest provider of 2-Man home delivery services in the UK. John Welsh, Fulfilment Sourcing Manager at IKEA UK & Ireland, emphasized DX’s pivotal role in helping IKEA attain its goal of achieving 100% zero-emission home delivery.
IKEA aims to power 60% of its deliveries in the UK with electric vehicles by the summer of 2023, with the objective of transitioning to a fully electric delivery fleet by 2025.
In addition to the £3 million investment for electric vehicles, DX has allocated £20 million over three years for a comprehensive investment program, now in its second year. This initiative encompasses the enhancement of depots, equipment, vehicles, and technology.
Meanwhile, DX is not the sole partner committed to sustainability within IKEA’s operations. IKEA has been collaborating with smaller logistics providers and its own fleet to achieve greener operations. The company has spearheaded the EV100+ initiative, dedicated to decarbonizing heavy-duty commercial vehicles by 2040. Furthermore, IKEA is a participant in the EV100 initiative introduced by the Climate Group in 2017. This collaborative effort has witnessed over 120 companies joining forces, committing to transitioning their lighter fleets, comprising over 5.5 million vehicles, to zero emissions by 2030.
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IKEA’s latest endeavors include the installation of charging infrastructure at its stores, primarily intended for use by its delivery partners. In April, IKEA commissioned Mer to construct charging stations in the UK. With an investment of £4.5 million, Mer will establish nearly 200 charging stations across the UK and Ireland.
By continuously investing in sustainable solutions and partnerships, IKEA and DX are actively contributing to the ongoing shift towards eco-friendly operations within the logistics industry. Their collective efforts demonstrate a shared commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting a greener future for home deliveries.
