At H.Z. Logistics, we are proud to announce that we have achieved our third Star within the Lean & Green program. This recognition confirms our ongoing commitment to making our logistics processes smarter, cleaner, and more sustainable. “For us, sustainability isn’t a trend — it’s a natural part of how we do business,” says owner and director Audrey Zuiderwijk. “Each year, we aim to achieve the highest possible reduction in our energy consumption.”
Continuous Growth and Responsibility
Over the past 35 years, H.Z. Logistics has grown into a leading logistics service provider with locations in the Netherlands, Poland, the United Kingdom, Romania, and Austria. We are primarily active in the fresh produce and floriculture sectors, offering our customers reliable and efficient transport solutions.
In 2024, we received our second Lean & Green Star, and now — in a relatively short time — we’ve also achieved our third Star. “That makes us extra proud,” adds Kelly Haaring, Junior Data Analyst. “It shows that our efforts at every level of the organization are delivering real results.”
Intermodal Transport and Data Quality at the Core
To achieve this third Star, we further expanded intermodal rail transport. Previously, our train connections focused solely on Italy, but in 2024 we also added Poland and Austria to our network. We also invested heavily in improving our data quality, supported by the implementation of BigMile. “This gave us much better insight into where we stood and where we could improve,” Haaring explains. “For example, we initially lacked carrier data. By working with actual figures instead of generic key figures, our data became much more accurate and reliable.”
Challenges and Lessons Learned
The journey was not without its challenges. “Ensuring the completeness of the query proved to be particularly complex,” Haaring recalls. “We had to repeatedly adjust and improve the input files based on error messages. On top of that, we wanted to include the emissions from the trailer refrigeration units, which added an extra layer of complexity in BigMile. But these challenges ultimately made our process stronger.”
Looking Ahead: Continuing to Drive Sustainability
Sustainability remains a key priority for H.Z. Logistics. We are continuously investing in modern, fuel-efficient vehicles and sustainable transport solutions. “In 2025, we added over 100 new trailers equipped with more efficient and user-friendly refrigeration units,” says Zuiderwijk. “By the end of 2025, we will further expand our LZV fleet as well.”
We will also continue to promote intermodal rail transport and work closely with partners across the supply chain to reduce our collective CO₂ footprint. “Every year, we strive for maximum reduction, in line with the requirements and ambitions of the Lean & Green program.”
