TOPS partnering with FLS Group, a global leader in supply chain solutions, to introduce fully electric 10-wheel refrigerated and 18-wheel non-refrigerated transport trucks, which will be used to distribute goods to TOPS stores in provincial areas. This initiative marks a pivotal step in TOPS’s “12 Missions to Sustainable Retail,” under the guiding principle of “Small Acts Together.” It aligns with Central Retail’s “CRC Care” philosophy—specifically the dimension of “Care for the Environment”—and supports the ultimate goal of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The initiative not only reinforces TOPS’s position as a pioneer in sustainable food retail but also sets a new benchmark for environmentally conscious logistics in the retail industry. Initial deployment will begin in the Central, Eastern, and Northeastern regions of Thailand, targeting a reduction of 13,335 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent within five years.
Stephane Coum, Chief Executive Officer – Food Group, Central Retail, stated that, “TOPS is committed to driving sustainability across every dimension of its operations — balancing economic growth, social development, and environmental responsibility. Through our ‘Small Acts Together’ principle, which unites small efforts to create a more sustainable world, we have launched different key missions under our ‘12 Missions to Sustainable Retail’ plan. By the end of 2023, we had introduced ten 4-wheel and one 6-wheel electric delivery trucks for non-refrigerated goods, serving TOPS DAILY and other TOPS branches across Greater Bangkok. This initiative has helped us reduce emissions by 342.27 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent annually.”
“Today, we continue this commitment with the launch of four additional electric trucks—10-wheel refrigerated and 18-wheel non-refrigerated vehicles—in collaboration with our strategic logistics partner, FLS Group, a global supply chain expert offering seamless logistics solutions. This partnership enhances our ability to serve TOPS branches in upcountry areas and expand the use of EV trucks for longer-distance routes and temperature-controlled deliveries. It represents a significant, measurable, and scalable step toward reducing our environmental impact nationwide.”
Torbjörn Larisch, Chief Executive Officer of FLS Group, commented on the collaboration that, “At FLS Group, we believe that the future of logistics is not only about speed and efficiency, but about responsibility to the planet. Partnering with TOPS on this groundbreaking EV Truck initiative is a major milestone in our commitment to sustainable logistics. These powerful, long-range electric vehicles represent more than innovation, they are a tangible step toward achieving climate goals on at scale. Currently, our network of EV charging stations spans four key regions of Thailand: Bangkok and the Central region, the North, the Northeast, and the East. We have ambitious plans for future expansion to ensure comprehensive coverage across all areas of Thailand. We’re proud to help set a new standard for green distribution in Southeast Asia. Together with TOPS, we’re not just delivering goods, we are delivering on a shared mission to create a cleaner, greener future.”
The newly launched 10-wheel refrigerated and 18-wheel non-refrigerated EV trucks boast impressive capabilities, requiring only 60 minutes to fully charge and offering a maximum range of 300 kilometres per charge. The 10-wheel truck can carry up to 9 tonnes, while the 18-wheel model supports a payload of up to 24 tonnes, significantly improving delivery efficiency, lowering logistics costs, and reducing carbon emissions by more than 1,860 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent annually. In 2023, TOPS began operations with 11 EV trucks for general goods distribution in Bangkok and nearby areas. Starting in April 2025, four additional EV trucks will begin distributing both refrigerated and non-refrigerated products to stores in the Central, Eastern, and Northeastern regions of Thailand. The company aims to have a total of 24 EV trucks in operation by the end of 2025.
“TOPS is aiming to reduce over 13,335 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent within five years through this initiative — the equivalent of planting more than 150,000 trees. We remain committed to expanding carbon reduction efforts through various other aspects of our operations, helping to propel our world toward a more sustainable future,” Stephane concluded.
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