Duane Reade electrifies delivery fleet

NEW YORK, and KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Duane Reade has added Smith Electric Vehicles' Newton zero-emission, all-electric commercial trucks to its delivery fleet.

With the addition of these medium-duty trucks, Duane Reade is the first retail pharmacy in the United States to choose fleet electrification through a pilot program with Smith Electric Vehicles, a global leader in zero-emission, all-electric commercial vehicles.

"In having a significant part of our retail foundation within the most dynamic urban center in the world, we want to do our part to conserve energy across all areas of operation by lowering our carbon footprint in addition to creatively integrating low-energy output solutions within Duane Reade stores," Duane Reade SVP merchandising and chief marketing officer Paul Tiberio said. "We are excited to partner with Smith Electric Vehicles and are confident the investments we are making today are not only good for the environment, but they also work to increase our business efficiency."

This pilot program is part of a continued energy initiative at Duane Reade, whereby all new and renovated stores feature 95% to 98% low-heat LED lighting, translating to approximately 40% less power consumption each year, the pharmacy chain said.