Feature, Freight News, Rail, Sea

All aboard Tesco’s Xmas Tilbury express

[ December 16, 2021   //   Chris ]

Tesco has introduced a Direct Rail Services-operated train from Tilbury to Coatbridge. It will run twice a day, seven days a week from now into the New Year. The 415-mile route will use DRS’s Class 88 bi-mode electric locomotives which can run on electricity or diesel.

The retailer is increasing its use of rail freight as part of its efforts to meet its commitment to net zero emissions in its own operations by 2035 and over the past year has increased the number of rail containers with produce destined for its stores by nearly 50%.

Charles Hammond, chief executive of Tilbury owner, Forth Ports said: “Rail traffic at our ports has increased tenfold this year alone and we are expecting annual growth in rail to continue to 2030. At Tilbury, in the last two years, we’ve enhanced our rail capability considerably by building new rail terminals and barge loading facilities across the port to enhance our customers’ low carbon delivery options.”

Tags: Forth Ports; Tilbury