Sustainability in print isn't just about the materials used or the production process. It's also about what happens once a job is complete.
For businesses in London, getting printed materials to their destination can present unique challenges. Busy roads, limited parking, tight deadlines and the need for reliable delivery all influence how print is transported across the capital.
At Rapidity, we've been exploring practical ways to make local print deliveries more efficient, including using an electric cargo bike to navigate London's busy streets.
Our approach was recently featured in Printweek in its article, Charging ahead: Electric vehicles for print deliveries, which explores how electric vehicles are changing delivery operations across the print industry.
As a London print and communications partner, we understand that delivery is an important part of the service we provide. Our clients often work to tight schedules, and getting materials to the right place at the right time matters.
Our electric cargo bike gives us another option for short-distance deliveries around London, particularly when traffic and parking make travelling by van less practical.
It works alongside our existing delivery vehicles, helping us choose an appropriate option for the job rather than relying on one method for every delivery.
For local journeys, the bike can offer several practical advantages:
Every delivery has different requirements, so the right approach depends on the size, weight, destination and timing of the job.
The transition towards more sustainable business operations doesn't always happen through one major change. Practical decisions about everyday processes can also play a part.
Choosing an electric cargo bike for suitable local deliveries is one way we're considering how our operations can evolve. It gives us flexibility while allowing us to think more carefully about how printed materials travel from our premises to our clients.
As with any transport decision, the environmental impact depends on factors including the journey, the alternative vehicle use and how the delivery is organised. An electric bike isn't the answer for every job, but it can be a useful option for the right delivery.
For Ben Manning, Director at Rapidity, the bike also offers an unexpected benefit: visibility.
Speaking to Printweek, Ben commented:
“And it’s great for our eco-credentials.”
The branded bike attracts attention on London's streets and provides a visible example of how Rapidity is exploring different approaches to local delivery.
Rapidity provides a range of print and communications services, including digital and litho printing, large-format graphics, packaging, direct mail and integrated campaigns.
We work with businesses that need more than a finished printed product. They need a partner who can help manage the process, from selecting appropriate materials and preparing artwork to production, delivery and professional installation where required.
For projects involving event graphics, retail displays, branded environments or marketing collateral, delivery is an important part of getting the final result right.
Considering transport alongside production helps us take a broader view of how we deliver our services, while continuing to meet the practical requirements of each project.
London presents challenges for any business moving goods around the city. For print, where deadlines, careful handling and installation schedules can be critical, flexibility matters.
Our electric cargo bike is one example of how we're adapting our delivery options to suit local conditions. Combined with our print expertise and established delivery operations, it helps us find practical solutions for a variety of client requirements.
We're continuing to look at how we can work efficiently, respond to the needs of our clients and consider our environmental impact across our operations.
Looking for a print partner in London?
From business print and direct mail to large-format graphics, packaging and event branding, Rapidity can help you take your next project from concept to delivery.