Suntory Group and Daikin Industries Expand Round-trip Logistics Routes with Double-linked Trucks

Suntory Group, in collaboration with Daikin Industries, Ltd., will begin round-trip transportation on a new route utilizing double-linked trucks starting Monday, May 25.

*A double-linked truck is a 25-meter-long vehicle connecting a 10-ton truck with a trailer cargo bed, allowing one driver to transport the cargo of two 10-ton trucks.

As part of its 'Smart Logistics' initiative to realize safe, secure, and sustainable logistics, the group has been promoting the use of advanced technology and cooperation with various companies.

In 2024, the group launched round-trip transportation with Daikin Industries using double-linked trucks to reduce the number of operating trucks and CO2 emissions. For this existing route, Suntory transports soft drinks between Yamanashi and Kyoto Prefectures on the outward trip, while Daikin transports air conditioning products between Shiga and Kanagawa Prefectures on the return trip.

Under the new route, Suntory will transport alcoholic and soft drink products between Gunma and Kyoto Prefectures on the outward trip, and Daikin will transport air conditioning products between Osaka and Kanagawa Prefectures on the return trip. Part of the transport on this route will be switched to double-linked trucks operated by Konoike Transport Co., Ltd. This is expected to reduce the annual number of trucks operated by approximately 250 units and CO2 emissions by approximately 140 tons.

Responding to changes in the logistics environment, such as the shortage of truck drivers due to the '2024 Logistics Problem' and the increase in transport volume, has become increasingly important. The company remains committed to realizing sustainable logistics by creating a better working environment for logistics companies and drivers, while being mindful of the natural environment.