Stobart Energy has opted to run its fleet exclusively on Bridgestone Duravis R002 tyres as part of a new deal between the two companies.

It is the UK’s number one supplier of biomass fuel, with long-term contracts in place to supply nearly two million tonnes of fuel to Energy Recovery Facilities, which generate renewable energy equivalent to the annual domestic electricity needs of 2% of the UK population.

Stobart Energy chose the Duravis R002 in order to achieve lower operational costs through decreased wear and optimised fuel efficiency.

Bridgestone’s consultative approach helped to secure the contract, allied with a close attention to detail and understanding of the fleet’s unique requirements.

Simon Cartwright, Stobart Energy’s director of logistics, said: “We were well aware of the quality and performance benefits associated with Bridgestone’s tyres, but the commercial agility shown during the tender process as a whole - from an operational perspective - was something that really resonated.

“The Bridgestone Partner network impressed us too, as we knew we’d be dealing with independent tyre dealers who are passionate in providing a memorable service, precisely because they are running their own businesses. This model really appealed to us.

“Being so closely aligned with renewable energy means that we have an absolute obligation to manage our carbon footprint responsibly and continually improve in this area. This manifests itself in a number of areas, one of which being the rubber on our wheels. Bridgestone’s products impressed us in this regard.”

Stobart Energy operates from 14 locations across the UK, from the north of Scotland to the south of Wales and south east of England.

Bridgestone recommended an alteration of its tyre specification for the fleet’s operation in Scotland, where the roads and weather patterns are typically more demanding than other areas of the UK.

Ian Davis, Bridgestone’s UK fleet sales manager, said that there was a number of synergies between both businesses, which managed to shine through despite talks taking place over online meetings.

He added: “From the moment we met Stobart Energy, we felt we were dealing with a company we could really relate to on a cultural level, as well as a professional one. Communication has been brilliant from day one and we are extremely excited to work with the Stobart Energy team and support them on a daily basis with our products and services.”