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UPS is using two barges along the Thames for its logistics operations for the London 2012 Olympic games.
The barges deliver equipment from UPS’s logistics facility at the Port of Tilbury, to Northumberland Wharf, close to the Olympic Village.
Thirty eight large containers have already been delivered by barge, carrying furniture and soft furnishings to kit out the Olympic and Paralympic Village.
UPS reckons that if this initiative is upscaled, the use of barges can help to alleviate capacity on London’s road networks, reducing traffic congestion and noise pollution.
“Given its history as an essential trade route into London, it is fitting that The Thames will play such a crucial role in delivering the London 2012 Games”, said Alan Williams, UPS director of London 2012 sponsorship and operations.
“The river has been largely overlooked as a logistics supply chain route for many decades and even now barges are frequently travelling up or down it without any cargo. We hope today’s launch will encourage other organisations to consider the benefits of reverse logistics and use the city’s waterways once again.”