Bradfords adds green forklifts

20 September 2022

Bradfords Building Supplies, the merchant and tool hire business serving south west England, recently added Hyster electric forklifts from Briggs Equipment for use at its warehouses. 

They replace existing diesel machines and have been delivered as part of a five-phase plan which will eventually see a total of 33 electric models in operation this year. 

As well as lowering emissions, the new trucks reduce noise pollution which is especially important for sites in residential areas.

Nathan Hancock, Briggs Equipment’s key accounts sales manager, said: “A key requirement for Bradfords was the switch to electric didn’t compromise the performance and productivity of the fleet. 

“All the trucks delivered are equipped with industry leading technology, which means the new trucks can keep pace with their diesel and LPG counterparts even in high-intensity environments. 

“There will also be significant cost savings for Bradfords as a result of going green, with operational costs significantly reduced. Pleasingly, we have already received some excellent feedback from operators on-site regarding the performance, comfort and reduced noise levels of the new trucks.” 

Giles Bradford, head of sustainability for Bradfords, added: “Emissions from our forklift fleet account for 15 per cent of our Scope 1 carbon, so this initiative helps us to make significant progress to decarbonise the business.  

“Whilst that was a driver for the electrification programme, crucial to any change was that the new vehicles were as fit for purpose as the original diesel versions.  Reports so far are that there are additional benefits beyond the zero emissions which will add further value to the business.” 

● Read the earlier blog post about Bradfords’ sustainability strategy here.