Integrating eCargo Bikes into Trading Post Coffee Roasters Delivery Operations
Background
In March 2023, independent and family-run coffee roasters Trading Post Coffee Roasters partnered with Brighton & Hove City Council in their eCargo Bike Accelerator project as part of the council’s bid to become a carbon-neutral city by 2030.
This project contributes to this goal by reducing emissions from transport, which account for over a third of Brighton & Hove’s greenhouse gas emissions.
Before the introduction of the electric cargo bike, Trading Post Coffee Roasters relied on a trusty but tired manual cargo bike to handle inner-city deliveries. Trading Post Coffee Roasters also conducted other deliveries through traditional means, primarily relying on third-party delivery drivers.
Previous delivery method
While delivery by the manual push-bike-style cargo bike was reliable, it presented its own problems. The physical exertion required from the team using the bike and, ultimately, the time it would take to carry out the deliveries were not always the most effective use of time.
Using a third-party delivery driver often lacked the personal touch that Trading Post Coffee Roasters strived to achieve. As a business, this is a value that a majority of our wholesale relationships are based on. Using third-party delivery drivers meant that our customers rarely interacted with our team directly, which is key to building relationships, trust and loyalty, and we know that this is something that is valued by our customer base across the city and beyond. Additionally, coordinating deliveries with external drivers sometimes led to inefficiencies and delays that were then beyond our control.
Integration of the eCargo Bike
Over the past year and a half, we have successfully integrated an Urban Arrow XL eCargo bike into our delivery operations across Brighton & Hove. This shift has transformed how we manage deliveries, allowing for a more personal, efficient, and environmentally friendly approach in the way we transport our freshly roasted coffee around the city, to our customer sites, and our own.
Advantages and Operations
Team Enjoyment and City Connection
The team loves using the eCargo bike as it allows them to get out into the city, enjoy fresh air, and build rapport with local wholesale customers. Unlike using third-party delivery drivers, our customers now get to see the faces behind the coffee, fostering valuable relationships.
Branding Opportunity
The eCargo bike provides a great branding opportunity as we cycle between sites. It serves as a moving advertisement, increasing our visibility and reinforcing our brand presence within the city.
Operational Efficiency
We are shipping more than just coffee. With five coffee houses across Brighton, the eCargo bike enables us to move dry stock, such as cups and other supplies, with ease and flexibility. This integration has streamlined our supply chain, allowing us to efficiently restock our locations as well as supply our partners. The eCargo bike also offers the flexibility to return with additional stock if needed.
Sustainability
The use of the eCargo bike aligns with our own sustainability targets and supports our B Corp application. It has significantly reduced our carbon footprint and mileage for our inner-city deliveries, further showcasing our commitment to environmental responsibility in addition to our wider planet-conscious pledges
Team and customer feedback
Our team love the eCargo bike. They feel more connected to the city, and the time spent outside positively impacts their physical and mental well-being. Deliveries no longer feel like work but rather an enjoyable part of their day.
Customers and clients have also noticed the change. They frequently comment on the bike, expressing their appreciation for our sustainable approach and the personal touch it brings to our service. This feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing our decision to adopt this new delivery method in Brighton & Hove.
Recommendations for other local businesses to consider
For other local Brighton-based businesses like ours, we highly recommend integrating eCargo bikes into your operations. The benefits extend beyond just efficient deliveries. They include stronger customer relationships, enhanced brand visibility, and a significant positive impact on employee wellbeing and environmental sustainability. Embracing this innovative approach can transform business operations and contribute to a more sustainable and connected community