Major food and beverage distributors are expanding their use of electric trucks, alternative fuels, and low-emission refrigeration as part of long-term sustainability strategies.
UNFI, US Foods, Martin-Brower, and Manhattan Beer & Beverage are adopting battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), electric transport refrigeration units (eTRUs), renewable diesel, and CNG across their fleets. Most routes fall within BEV range, and companies report favourable reliability and driver satisfaction results.
US Foods has over 48 BEVs and advanced charging infrastructure, while UNFI operates electric trucks and 58 electrified refrigerated trailers in California. Martin-Brower used over 3 million gallons of alternative fuels last year and now powers its California network with renewable electricity.
Fleet operators emphasise that site selection, incentives, and telematics are key to managing costs and performance. The industry’s shift reflects growing commercial demand for cleaner logistics and a focus on long-term carbon reduction.