Sysco has launched its new £23 million Belfast facility, combining world-class logistics with a comprehensive sustainability agenda aimed at greening foodservice supply chains across Ireland. The state-of-the-art site, built to BREEAM standards, integrates on-site solar generation, rainwater harvesting, a natural CO₂ refrigeration system, and Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel for its fleet, reflecting a strategic approach to operational efficiency and environmental stewardship.

The facility’s 2,600 high-efficiency solar panels are expected to generate 16% of annual electricity demand, while rainwater harvesting reduces mains water reliance. The natural CO₂ refrigeration system, with a global warming potential of just one, repurposes waste heat for underfloor heating and hot water, merging eco-conscious design with practical operational benefits.

Sustainability extends to Sysco’s 400-vehicle fleet, which serves over 10,000 customers across Ireland. This year, over 20% of the Northern Ireland fleet will operate on HVO, with plans to expand coverage to 55% by 2027. Full implementation could cut scope 1 emissions by around 6,800 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent, supporting Sysco’s commitment to reduce scope 1 and 2 emissions by 27.5% by 2030 under its Science Based Targets.

Mark Lee, chief executive of Sysco Ireland, emphasised that sustainability is both a core value and a business imperative, with strategic investments across facilities and fleet designed to support customers, colleagues, and communities in achieving their environmental goals. The Belfast facility follows on from renewable energy initiatives at Sysco’s Dublin site, reinforcing the company’s long-term vision for sustainable operations across the island.

The project positions Sysco Belfast as a benchmark for integrating sustainability into large-scale foodservice logistics while reducing environmental impact across operational and community levels.

Explore the full article to see how Sysco is driving a greener future for foodservice in Ireland.