Rochdale-based JPM Eco Logistics, which plans to run a fleet of bio-diesel trucks, has received £100,000 investment from venture capitalists, Deborah Meadon and Theo Paphitis on the BBC television programme “Dragons Den”.
Co–founders Jerry Mantalvanos and Paul Merker aim to become the “most cost effective and environmentally -aware transport company in the UK”.
Mantalvanos said: “After we established that Volvo Trucks would supply vehicles at 100 per cent bio-diesel we needed investments. “It was at that time we decided to apply to the television programme ‘Dragons Den’.”
After heaqring the idea, four of the five draqgons wanted to invest in the company. Merker said: “The interest from the panel was very pleasing and we are now extremely proud to have two of the Dragons, Deborah Meadon and Theo Paphitis, on board with us.”
Since trading started in June this year, JPM Eco Logistics has taken delivery of three Volvo FH 480 Euro 5’s which have been specially adapted to operate 100 per cent bio-diesel. The equipment required to ensure bio-diesel can be used with standard fuel trucks was specially adapted by Thomas Hardie Commercials of Wigan.
Merker said: “Although a number of manufacturers and companies are using part bio-diesel as a trial, we believe that running vehicles at “100 per cent” will change the face of bulk transport.”
