Asda is moving full-steam ahead to improve its distribution network by moving more goods off the motorways and on to bespoke trains.
From next year, the grocer will use a dedicated Daventry-to-Aberdeen train - decked out in Asda livery - to deliver to its 30 Scottish stores in a more direct and efficient way.
The scheme follows the success of rail distribution from Asda's Daventry hub to a Grangemouth depot - also in Scotland - over the past year.
The grocer is also considering Asda trains to service English ports such as Southampton and Felixstowe. Because of its growing non-food business, Asda is importing much more stock by sea.
Asda transport development manager Peter Wildman said: 'There are cost-saving benefits and environmental benefits from using trains.'
Asda's latest train has 13 containers (pictured), and means the same number of lorries come off the roads. The retailer is having a locomotive painted with the Asda logo.
Asda estimates it could save 8 million miles on the road by the end of 2004.
Earlier this year, Royal Mail stopped using trains for delivery after 160 years because it claimed it wasn't cost-effective.
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