Bridgestone has underlined its environmental credentials and attention to detail after entering into a commercial fleet partnership with Stobart Energy for the first time, it was revealed.
Stobart Energy is the UK’s number one supplier of biomass fuel, with long-term contracts in place to supply nearly two million tonnes of fuel to Energy Recovery Facilities, generating renewable energy equivalent to the annual domestic electricity needs of 2% of the UK population.
The fleet will be running exclusively on the Bridgestone Duravis R002, which is designed to lower operational costs by significantly reducing cost per kilometre through outstanding wear performance and optimised fuel efficiency. Designed for the versatility segment, the Duravis R002 is available to all types of on-road fleet operation and deliver outstanding wet grip.
But it was Bridgestone’s consultative approach which resonated with Stobart Energy, allied with a close attention to detail and understanding of the fleet’s unique requirements.
“We were highly impressed by the Bridgestone team, right back when we were first introduced in May 2020. We were made to feel extremely valued by Bridgestone, who spent a great deal of time understanding what we wanted. No stone was left unturned in this regard and we struck up a good rapport immediately,” said Simon Cartwright, Stobart Energy’s Director of Logistics.
“We were well aware of the quality and performance benefits associated with Bridgestone’s tyres, but the commercial agility shown during the tender process as a whole – from an operational perspective – was something that really resonated. The Bridgestone Partner network impressed us too, as we knew we’d be dealing with independent tyre dealers who are passionate in providing a memorable service, precisely because they are running their own businesses. This model really appealed to us.”
An example of Bridgestone’s willingness to adapt to meet the bespoke needs of the Stobart Energy fleet could be seen in its recommendation and alteration of its tyre specification for the fleet’s operation in Scotland, where the roads and weather patterns are typically more demanding than other areas of the UK.
Simon said the environmental credentials of the Duravis R002 were key factors when deciding to partner with Bridgestone. “Being so closely aligned with renewable energy means that we have an absolute obligation to manage our carbon footprint responsibly and continually improve in this area. This manifests itself in a number of areas, one of which being the rubber on our wheels. Bridgestone’s products impressed us in this regard.”
