UK health and beauty retailer Boots has appointed XPO Logistics as long-term logistics partner to support supply chain operations across the UK and Ireland, including growing e-commerce demand, according to a report in Logistics Manager.

XPO Logistics, which has worked with Boots since March 2024, will manage primary transport distribution of products from two Boots service centres in Beeston, Nottingham, and Burton-on-Trent to cross-dock centres across the UK and Ireland.

The logistics operation comprises a dedicated workforce of 50 trunking drivers and 22 shunt drivers, supported by a fleet of 35 trunking vehicles and 10 shunt vehicles. Two dedicated fleets will operate seven days weekly, with one focused on scheduled distribution routes and the other supporting shunting activities at the Beeston and Burton sites. Boots will also benefit from 23 dedicated XPO Logistics support staff.

Director of Warehousing, Transport and Distribution for UK and Republic of Ireland Keiron Samways stated: "Our online operations continue to grow at pace as more customers choose to shop with us digitally. This long-term partnership with XPO Logistics strengthens our transport network across the UK and Ireland, giving us greater visibility, resilience and efficiency across our supply chain, supports our sustainability agenda and ensure we're well positioned to support our customers today and in the future."

Senior Vice President of Supply Chain for Europe Dan Myers noted that initiatives focused on fleet optimisation and lower-emission transport are helping to reduce the environmental impact of deliveries, with the collaborative approach supporting Boots' broader sustainability and customer experience goals.

The partnership addresses increasing complexity in retail logistics as consumer purchasing patterns shift towards digital channels requiring integrated distribution networks capable of serving both physical stores and direct-to-consumer fulfilment operations. Boots operates one of the UK's largest retail pharmacy networks alongside a growing online business.

Read complete details of Boots' long-term logistics partnership with XPO Logistics for UK and Ireland operations in the full report.