Co-op Extends Long-Standing Partnership with Buffaload to Strengthen UK Supply Chain Operations

Photo: John Kerrigan (Buffaload) and Stuart Rendall (Co-op)

(IN BRIEF) Cambridgeshire-based logistics provider Buffaload has secured a new five-year contract with Co-op, extending a partnership that has lasted over ten years and expanding its role to include the trunking of ambient goods from Co-op’s National Distribution Centre in Coventry to 11 regional distribution centres across the UK. The agreement builds on Buffaload’s existing temperature-controlled operations while aligning with both organisations’ shared commitment to reducing carbon emissions, supported by Buffaload’s investment in LNG vehicles and its transition to locally produced bio-LNG. Senior leaders from both companies highlighted the strength of their long-standing collaboration, which spans logistics, sustainability initiatives, and charitable partnerships, and emphasised their intention to continue working together to deliver resilient, efficient, and lower-carbon supply chain operations.

(PRESS RELEASE) MANCHESTER, 7-Feb-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Buffaload Logistics, the Cambridgeshire-based haulage specialist, has secured a new five-year contract with Co-op, extending a partnership that has already spanned more than a decade and broadening the scope of its logistics operations for the retailer. The agreement deepens collaboration between the two organisations and reflects their shared commitment to operational efficiency, resilience, and carbon reduction.

Under the terms of the new contract, Buffaload will be responsible for trunking ambient goods from Co-op’s National Distribution Centre in Coventry to 11 regional distribution centres across the UK. From there, Co-op’s regional networks will distribute products to stores serving communities in towns, cities, and rural areas nationwide, ensuring consistent supply to local convenience outlets.

UNP Co Op 47509 Buffaload Coventry
Sarah Heslop (Buffaload), Garry Stockley (B), Fiona Smith (B), Paul Robinson (B), Kim Clark (B), Stuart Rendall (The Co-Operative), Fiona Cameron (Co-Op), Mike Gray (Co-Op) and John Kerrigan (B)
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The expanded partnership builds on Buffaload’s existing role in Co-op’s temperature-controlled logistics operations. By integrating ambient freight into its established network, the company is strengthening its position as a key strategic logistics partner while supporting Co-op’s ambition to maintain a reliable and responsive supply chain.

Sustainability remains a central focus of the collaboration. Over the past year, Buffaload has significantly invested in increasing its fleet of liquefied natural gas (LNG) vehicles, reflecting its long-term commitment to reducing transport-related emissions. The company has also committed to using locally produced bio-LNG derived from food and agricultural waste, enabling its latest vehicles to achieve substantial reductions in tailpipe emissions and further lowering their environmental impact.

John Kerrigan, Chief Executive Officer of Buffaload, welcomed the extended partnership, noting that it represents more than just a logistics agreement. He highlighted the strong collaborative relationship between the two organisations, which also encompasses joint charitable initiatives such as support for Barnardo’s, as well as cooperation with Co-op suppliers to develop practical carbon reduction solutions. Kerrigan emphasised that Buffaload is eager to build on this foundation and deliver even greater shared value in the years ahead.

Stuart Rendall, Co-op’s Head of Logistics Operations, described the renewed contract as an important milestone in the retailer’s supply chain strategy. He pointed to the long history of innovation and partnership between Co-op and Buffaload, stressing that the collaboration plays a vital role in ensuring a resilient, round-the-clock logistics operation that keeps stores stocked across every postal area in the UK. Rendall also highlighted the shared commitment to sustainability as a key driver of the partnership’s next phase.

About Co-op

Co-op Group is one of the world’s largest consumer co-operatives, operating across food retail, funerals, insurance and legal services. Owned by 7 million active member-owners, Co-op exists to meet their needs and champion the causes they care about. With more than 2,300 food stores, 800 funeral homes and a wholesale business supplying around 8,000 additional outlets, Co-op employs 53,000 colleagues and generates annual revenues of over £11 billion. It is a recognised leader in ethical business and community-led programmes, creating long-term value for members and communities across the UK.

Media Contacts:

Russ Brady, 07880 784442, russ.brady@coop.co.uk
Cat Turner, 07834 090783, catherine.turner@coop.co.uk

SOURCE: Co-operative Group Limited