GMS Inc. announced that the company has added several newly developed material handling trucks equipped with battery-powered hydraulic cranes to its distribution fleet and plans to add approximately 20 additional units in the next two years as they become available. This fleet initiative, being implemented in partnership with I-State Truck Centers and Odyne Systems, supports the company’s sustainability efforts and its commitment to minimizing the environmental impacts of its business operations, as well as improving overall operating efficiencies.

“We remain committed to conducting our business in a manner that aligns with our values and promotes environmental sustainability, while also delivering value to our shareholders,” said John C. Turner, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer. “We are excited about the addition of these innovative and environmentally beneficial vehicles to our fleet. These newly developed material handling trucks are designed to lower greenhouse gas and NOx emissions, and we expect them to deliver improved driving fuel efficiency, quieter stationary operation, reduced fuel consumption and lower operating and maintenance costs.”

GMS’s primary source of greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel consumption is related to the operation and use of delivery trucks and other vehicles in its business. Efforts to improve the efficiency of the company’s vehicle fleet include a company-wide adoption of fleet optimization and logistics software and technology, among other initiatives. Where possible, the company seeks to operate portions of its fleet with environmentally friendlier sources of energy, with approximately 45 percent of its warehouse and truck forklift fleet powered by propane or electricity.