How a chance encounter led to Vancouver's most sustainable CO₂ delivery operation

The best partnerships often begin with a simple moment of recognition. For City Soda's co-founder, that moment happened on the road when they spotted a familiar logo on an electric delivery van. Little did they know that a chance sighting would form an impactful sustainability partnership.

City Soda represents something unique in Vancouver's beverage landscape: the city's first and only local CO₂ cylinder exchange and refill delivery service. Founded by Dena as an alternative to the plastic-heavy, long-distance shipping model of traditional sparkling water brands, the company prioritizes quick local delivery, cylinder recycling, and direct customer relationships.

"We're trying to do things differently, more sustainably, more locally, and with more care for our customers." But by early 2024, doing things differently was creating its own challenges.

The Growth Challenge

City Soda's commitment to personal service meant a lot of deliveries were handled mostly in-house, using an electric vehicle to reach customers across Metro Vancouver. The approach worked well for building customer relationships, but as demand grew, the limitations became clear. Between increasing order volumes and the physical demands of cylinder delivery, the operation was approaching a breaking point.

The timing of that van spotting couldn't have been better. Finding a delivery partner with an electric fleet, local presence, and compatible technology offered exactly what City Soda needed: the ability to scale operations without compromising on values.

Seamless Integration

The transition proved remarkably smooth. Both companies were already using the same platform for dispatch management, eliminating the typical friction of platform integration. More importantly, the cultural fit was immediate. The delivery drivers understood they weren't just delivering cylinders—they were representing City Soda's brand and values to customers who had grown accustomed to personal service.

"The transition was really smooth. We were already using the same tech, so it made things easier. And knowing Zipply was all-electric? That sealed the deal."

Within weeks, drivers had become familiar faces in the City Soda network, building the same trust-based relationships that had been central to the company's early success. The partnership allowed City Soda to maintain its personal touch while dramatically expanding its operational capacity.

Impact by the Numbers

One year into the partnership, the results demonstrate the power of aligned values and operational excellence:

5,486 deliveries completed across Metro Vancouver
1,529+ kg of CO₂ emissions avoided compared to traditional delivery methods
99% on-time delivery rate maintained throughout the partnership

The emissions reduction represents more than just an environmental benefit; it reflects a fundamental shift in how local businesses can operate sustainably at scale. By choosing zero-emission delivery, City Soda avoided the carbon footprint equivalent of X traditional delivery routes while maintaining the rapid, reliable service their customers expect.

Built on Trust

This trust is reciprocated through consistent communication and shared problem-solving. When packaging needs adjustment or delivery routes require optimization, both teams collaborate to find solutions that work for customers, not just operational metrics.

"At the end of the day, I trust your team with my customers and my brand. That says a lot," reflects one of City Soda's founders.

The partnership exemplifies how sustainable logistics can enhance rather than compromise customer experience. By focusing on reliability, consistency, and environmental responsibility, both companies have created a delivery model that customers actively appreciate and support.

The Broader Impact

This partnership represents something larger than efficient CO₂ delivery. It demonstrates how local businesses can build sustainable supply chains that support community values while achieving commercial success. By prioritizing environmental responsibility and customer service equally, both companies have created a model that other local partnerships can follow.

The success also highlights the importance of infrastructure in enabling sustainable business practices. Zipply's zero-emission fleet provides the foundation that allows companies like City Soda to operate sustainably at scale, proving that environmental responsibility and operational efficiency can reinforce each other.

Looking Forward

As City Soda prepares for its next phase of growth, the partnership with Zipply continues to evolve. New delivery challenges will emerge as the business expands, but the foundation of shared values, operational excellence, and mutual trust provides a strong platform for continued success.

Interested in zero-emission delivery solutions for your business? Learn more about Zipply's sustainable logistics services and discover how partnership-driven approaches can transform your operations while reducing environmental impact.

This story is part of our ongoing series highlighting partnerships that demonstrate the power of sustainable business practices. Follow Zipply on LinkedIn and Instagram for more stories about local businesses creating a positive environmental impact.

Zipply x City Soda: One Year of Zero-Emission Partnership