Co-op extends logistics contract with Buffaload
06 February 2026
Cambridgeshire-based haulier, Buffaload, has been awarded a new contract with Co-op, extending its more than 10 year partnership with the leading convenience retailer.
The new five year contract will now see Buffaload trunking ambient products from Co-op’s National Distribution Centre (NDC) in Coventry to 11 of the retailer’s regional distribution centres, which then deliver to local stores in communities in towns, cities and villages across the UK.
With a shared focus on cutting carbon emissions, last year Buffaload significantly invested in increasing its fleet of LNG (liquefied natural gas) vehicles. Buffaload has also committed to utilising bio-LNG, produced locally from food and agricultural waste, in a move that will enable its latest vehicles to reach significant tailpipe emission reductions*.
Photo: John Kerrigan (Buffaload) and Stuart Rendall (Co-op)
John Kerrigan, CEO of Buffaload, said: “We are delighted to extend our partnership with Co op by adding ambient logistics to our well established temperature controlled network. This is testament to our long standing collaborative relationship with Co op, which reaches well beyond logistics, including support for shared charitable partnerships such as Barnardo’s and the role we play in working with Co op suppliers to provide carbon reduction solutions. We look forward to achieving even more together.”
Stuart Rendall, Co-op’s Head of Logistic Operations, said: “Extending and deepening our work with Buffaload is an exciting development, we have a shared history of collaboration and innovation. We are focused on serving communities in every postal area of the UK and working round the clock to ensure a resilient and effective supply and logistics operation – enabling shoppers to pop to their local Co-op conveniently for their favourite meals or everyday essentials. With our successful work together over the years and shared commitments to carbon reduction we are really looking forward to the next chapter in our partnership.”
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Editor Notes:
*Source: Buffaload
About Buffaload:
Buffaload Logistics is one of the UK’s leading temperature controlled logistics providers, delivering chilled, ambient and frozen goods nationwide for major retailers and food manufacturers. Buffaload operates from strategic hubs across Ellington, Crewe, Skelmersdale, Spalding, Bellshill, Cross Hands and Avonmouth. Its fleet includes LNG powered Volvo tractor units and over 300 double deck trailers, significantly reducing carbon emissions and vehicle movements as part of its commitment to more sustainable logistics. Operating 24/7, Buffaload is recognised for its resilience, agility and commitment to innovation, providing end to end consolidation, warehousing and temperature controlled distribution across the UK.
For press/journalist enquiries:
Andrew Torr,
Lead Press Officer, Co-op Group.
t: +44 (0) 7702 505 551
e: andrew.torr@coop.co.uk
e:pressoffice@coop.co.uk
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.