Rhenus strengthens its 15-Year partnership with Merck and launches a low-carbon logistics solution in Alsace

The B100 fuel, a biodiesel made entirely from renewable sources such as vegetable oils, enables a significant reduction in carbon emissions without compromising operational efficiency. 

To support this transition, Rhenus has invested in specialized trucks and trailers compatible with B100 fuel and has established a dedicated refueling station at its logistics hub on Rue du Havre in Strasbourg. Additionally, advanced monitoring systems have been deployed to track emissions and ensure transparency in environmental performance. 

As part of their commitment to transparency and measurable progress, Rhenus has published monthly environmental footprint data for its shuttle operations with Merck.  

Each month, Rhenus’ sustainable shuttle service for Merck covers approximately 7,360 kilometers and generates around 3.05 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂e), representing a consistent 55% reduction in emissions compared to a conventional diesel-only operation, which would emit an estimated 6.8 tCO₂e, thereby avoiding 3.75 tCO₂e monthly. 

This reduction not only supports climate goals set by Rhenus, but also contributes to improving air quality in the Strasbourg area, benefiting the health and well-being of the local community. By reducing pollutants such as particulate matter and nitrogen oxides, the initiative helps create a cleaner, healthier environment, especially important in urban logistics zones. 

“This partnership is a testament to our joint commitment to reducing logistics-related emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources,” said Laurent Brèche, General Manager at Rhenus in France. “By combining our logistics expertise with Merck’s ambitious sustainability goals, we are not only reducing emissions today but also laying the groundwork for a fully electric fleet tomorrow. This is just the beginning of a broader transformation.” 

“On behalf of the Merck Molsheim site, I am proud to see our commitment materialize with the launch of this B100-powered shuttle. This initiative truly embodies our drive to reduce our carbon footprint while further strengthening our longstanding strategic partnership with Rhenus. Every journey takes us one step closer to a climate-friendly, more responsible logistics, an effort that resonates with Merck’s global sustainability vision. We are excited to contribute to this momentum, paving the way today for the sustainable solutions of tomorrow, both for our region and for our planet”, said Romina Marcovici, Head of Molsheim Operations at Merck.  

The B100 initiative is a transitional step as both companies prepare for a future powered by electric vehicles. In the meantime, the use of B100 ensures operational consistency, including maintaining driver shift durations, while significantly reducing environmental impact. 

To commemorate this milestone, Rhenus and Merck will host a special anniversary ceremony on July 4, 2025, at the Rhenus warehouse in Strasbourg. 

Looking ahead, Rhenus plans to expand its B100-powered fleet across France and continue collaborating with Merck on redesigning delivery and reception circuits to accommodate electric vehicles.  

This partnership is more than a logistics solution: it is a model for how companies can work together to meet the challenges of climate change, foster innovation, and create a virtuous cycle of environmental and economic benefits.