ArrowXL's Investment in ESG and Operational Excellence: New Yard Shunters Reflect a Commitment to Safety, Efficiency, and Sustainability

At ArrowXL, our commitment to continuous investment in both our people and our operations is at the forefront of everything we do. A key part of this dedication is providing our colleagues with the right tools and equipment to ensure they can perform their roles safely and efficiently. Our recent procurement of new yard shunters exemplifies this ongoing pledge, with a focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and long-term operational sustainability.

Addressing Operational Needs with Expertise

As our previous yard shunters neared the end of their rental agreements and began showing signs of wear, it became clear that a new solution was needed. Ian Pearson, Procurement Manager, took charge of the project but quickly recognised the need for operational insights to ensure the new equipment met the specific demands of our colleagues on the ground.

In a show of proactive engagement, Jason Hunt, one of ArrowXL’s experienced Yard Shunter drivers, volunteered to contribute to the project. Drawing upon his deep understanding of the role, Jason collaborated closely with his fellow drivers, compiling a comprehensive list of requirements based on their daily needs. From enhanced safety features to ergonomic improvements, each request was designed to support the team’s wellbeing and productivity.

Jason also worked directly with the supplier, Gilder Hire, conveying the practical reasoning behind each of the specific requirements. This collaborative effort resulted in bespoke vehicles built to fit the exact needs of our operations, showcasing ArrowXL’s focus on creating a workplace that prioritises both efficiency and the safety of our workforce.

Ian Pearson commented: "Working with Jason and the rest of the team, we identified key areas where the new shunters could improve safety, reduce downtime, and make daily tasks easier. The result is a set of vehicles that not only meet our operational needs but also reflect our commitment to sustainability and colleague wellbeing. It's been a great example of how the right equipment can make a huge difference."

ESG Commitment in Action

At ArrowXL, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s woven into the fabric of how we operate. The new yard shunters were carefully selected with a strong focus on safety, fuel efficiency, and ergonomic design, contributing directly to our ESG goals.

Key features of the new shunters include an exhaust extension stack to prevent fumes from entering the driver’s cab, which significantly improves air quality for operators. This not only enhances the wellbeing of our team but also aligns with our environmental objectives by reducing harmful emissions exposure. Additionally, the integration of energy-efficient LED lighting across the vehicles increases visibility during operations, reducing the likelihood of accidents while also lowering energy consumption.

A Tailored Solution for Efficiency and Safety

Delivered to our sites in late September, the new shunters have already received positive feedback from our teams. The vehicles, painted in ArrowXL’s distinctive colours, feature a range of improvements designed to make daily tasks safer and more manageable. Highlights include:

Sliding windows for improved ventilation and accessibility
Document holders and LED lighting to help drivers manage paperwork in low-light conditions
Ergonomic seating to reduce driver fatigue
Charging points for essential equipment like radios and mobile phones
A DAB radio with Bluetooth capabilities for improved communication

In terms of safety, the shunters have been equipped with additional lighting, including hazard and reversing lights, which make the vehicles more visible to other drivers and warehouse personnel. Furthermore, a safety lighting system now ensures that seatbelts are being used correctly, enhancing overall compliance with safety protocols.

Luke Barton, Chief Operating Officer at ArrowXL, said: "This investment in new yard shunters is a testament to our ongoing commitment to providing our teams with the best tools and equipment. By focusing on safety, efficiency, and sustainability, we're not only improving working conditions for our colleagues but also ensuring that ArrowXL remains at the forefront of responsible and innovative logistics solutions. These new vehicles are just one example of how we’re aligning our operational goals with our colleague and ESG commitments."

Ongoing Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability

The new yard shunters represent just one part of ArrowXL’s broader strategy to invest in technology and equipment that support operational efficiency and sustainability. Our investment in these bespoke vehicles demonstrates how we are continuously evolving to meet the needs of our colleagues while maintaining a focus on reducing our environmental impact.

By improving working conditions and enhancing safety measures, ArrowXL continues to demonstrate its commitment to fostering a sustainable, responsible business model. These investments not only support the welfare of our team but also reflect our dedication to ESG principles, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of responsible logistics solutions.

As we look to the future, ArrowXL remains focused on sustainable growth, placing our people, our customers, and the environment at the heart of everything we do.

About ArrowXL

As the leading 2-person shared user home delivery specialist in the UK, ArrowXL delivers over two million customer orders every year. We are committed to innovation and continuous improvement - investing in technology, new services and training.

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