Tops Markets to Convert Entire Truck Distribution Fleet to Compressed Natural Gas

Tops Friendly Markets announced the beginning of its major fleet conversion. Through partnership with Ryder, ANG and the assistance of National Fuel, Tops is replacing its existing 55 tractors with ones that are compatible with compressed natural gas (CNG). As a part of the agreement, ANG developed a CNG fueling facility on-site at the Tops distribution center, located at 5873 Genesee Street in Lancaster, NY. The facility now provides CNG fuel to Tops’ new fleet of tractors. “This partnership with American Natural Gas and Ryder marks an important milestone in our distribution center’s history.” said Ron Ferri, senior vice president of Distribution and Logistics at Tops Friendly Markets. “By introducing a new, natural gas-powered fleet, Tops Friendly Markets is positioning itself as a socially responsible and environmentally-conscious company.” Ryder is the leader in natural gas vehicle solutions for the commercial transportation industry, with more than 27 million miles of experience, 14 natural gas vehicle maintenance facilities, and 260 natural gas vehicle trained technicians. ANG was selected by Tops for its expertise in designing systems that are durable and reliable in cold weather climates. ANG is leasing the land for the station from Tops and will continue to own, operate and maintain the facility. “It’s an exciting day for all of us,” said Drew West, CEO of American Natural Gas. “The Tops project is setting the pace for the grocery industry, as this CNG fueling station and strategy will both save fuel and protect the environment.” With the conversion to clean-burning natural gas, Tops Markets will be conserving over 1,200,000 gallons of diesel fuel per year. Additional benefits of Tops’ conversion to CNG vehicles include: ·        A 50% reduction in annual fuel costs

National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation, the utility segment of National Fuel Gas Company, also applauds the sustainability benefits of CNG. National Fuel provided Tops with a monetary incentive to assist in the construction of their refueling station and the purchase of 55 CNG trucks. “Economics and environmental benefits are fueling the increase of compressed natural gas (CNG) for transportation use in the area," said John J. Polka Jr., Assistant Vice President at National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation. “The clean-burning fuel alternative has lower exhaust emissions, and it's cheaper than diesel and gasoline.  National Fuel has seen a 2,000 percent increase in actual usage of compressed natural gas usage in the last 5 years.”