Author: Matthew Wilkinson

Discover the Artistry in Transportation: New Generation DAF FA XG+450 Lorries Join Gander & White’s Fleet

As the curtain rises on one of our latest ventures, the HTC Group, Croydon DAF proudly presents the newest additions to Gander & White’s fleet: the striking New Generation DAF FA XG+450 Low Deck (4×2) 18t insulated & temperature controlled, box, tail-lift lorries. These exceptional vehicles, seamlessly supplied via Novuna Vehicle Solutions, are set to revolutionise the logistics landscape for art transporters, Gander & White.

Gander & White Shipping: A Legacy of Excellence

Step into the world of Gander & White Shipping, a venerable company with an illustrious 85-year history dedicated to the meticulous handling of Fine Arts and Antiques. Founded in 1933 by the visionary Frank White, Gander & White has evolved into one of the foremost shipping and installation firms globally. Their clientele spans Art Dealers, Private Collections, and Museums, relying on the company’s expertise for the secure transportation and installation of precious artworks.

A Journey Through Artistic Excellence

Gander & White has been bestowed with the responsibility of installing art from some of the most significant private collectors and institutions worldwide. Their journey through artistic excellence has established them as a trusted partner for those who seek unparalleled care and discretion in handling precious artworks.

Beyond the Canvas: Temperature-Controlled Precision

Delving into the intriguing facets of logistics, it’s not just consumables that demand special transportation conditions. These newly acquired DAF lorries boast insulation and temperature control features specifically designed to safeguard art during transit. DAF vehicles ensure that the delicate nuances of temperature-sensitive artworks are preserved, reflecting the commitment to the highest standards in transportation.

As we unveil these remarkable vehicles, it’s more than a merger of form and function – it’s a harmonious symphony between cutting-edge logistics and the timeless artistry entrusted to Gander & White. Stay tuned as we embark on this exciting journey, blending precision, technology, and art in every mile travelled.

Discover the Artistry in Transportation: New Generation DAF FA XG+450 Lorries Join Gander & White’s Fleet

As the curtain rises on one of our latest ventures, the HTC Group, Croydon DAF proudly presents the newest additions to Gander & White’s fleet: the striking New Generation DAF FA XG+450 Low Deck (4×2) 18t insulated & temperature controlled, box, tail-lift lorries. These exceptional vehicles, seamlessly supplied via Novuna Vehicle Solutions, are set to revolutionise the logistics landscape for art transporters, Gander & White.

Gander & White Shipping: A Legacy of Excellence

Step into the world of Gander & White Shipping, a venerable company with an illustrious 85-year history dedicated to the meticulous handling of Fine Arts and Antiques. Founded in 1933 by the visionary Frank White, Gander & White has evolved into one of the foremost shipping and installation firms globally. Their clientele spans Art Dealers, Private Collections, and Museums, relying on the company’s expertise for the secure transportation and installation of precious artworks.

A Journey Through Artistic Excellence

Gander & White has been bestowed with the responsibility of installing art from some of the most significant private collectors and institutions worldwide. Their journey through artistic excellence has established them as a trusted partner for those who seek unparalleled care and discretion in handling precious artworks.

Beyond the Canvas: Temperature-Controlled Precision

Delving into the intriguing facets of logistics, it’s not just consumables that demand special transportation conditions. These newly acquired DAF lorries boast insulation and temperature control features specifically designed to safeguard art during transit. DAF vehicles ensure that the delicate nuances of temperature-sensitive artworks are preserved, reflecting the commitment to the highest standards in transportation.

As we unveil these remarkable vehicles, it’s more than a merger of form and function – it’s a harmonious symphony between cutting-edge logistics and the timeless artistry entrusted to Gander & White. Stay tuned as we embark on this exciting journey, blending precision, technology, and art in every mile travelled.

The Power of Long-Term Collaborations: Measurable Benefits in the Transportation Sector 

As the transportation industry continues to evolve, DAF Dealership, the HTC Group, stands as a beacon of enduring partnerships, emphasising the measurable benefits that arise from investing in long-term relationships within the sector. With a rich history dating back to 1970, HTC has continually prioritised customer satisfaction, a principle that forms the foundation of their success. 

The Evolution of Scarab Sweepers: A Global Leader 

Established in 1979, Scarab Sweepers has risen to prominence as a global leader in crafting innovative cleaning vehicles. Renowned for quality and refinement, their single and twin-engine vehicle range has garnered trust worldwide. Notably, Scarab stands as the pioneer in eco-friendly single-engine truck-mounted sweepers, maintaining its market leadership. Offering diverse sweeping solutions with various body sizes, drive types, and alternative fuels like HVO, Scarab ensures excellent build quality, superior performance, optimum payload, all while minimising noise and exhaust pollution. This commitment resonates with evolving industry needs centred around efficiency and environmental responsibility.

The Collaborative Success Story: HTC, Scarab, and DAF Trucks 

Amid industry challenges, the collaboration between HTC Group, Scarab Sweepers, and DAF Trucks has proven to be a strategic alliance, emphasising the tangible benefits of long-term relationships. Scarab’s commitment to DAF vehicles and the unique specifications provided by DAF, such as the 7.5-tonne chassis, illustrates the practicality and quality that underpin their enduring partnership. 

During unprecedented times, such as the recent pandemic, HTC’s foresight in reserving a bank stock of chassis for Scarab proved invaluable. This strategic move resulted in shorter lead times, ensuring Scarab could maintain its reliable status despite disruptions in the truck manufacturing process. 

A Testament to Resilience: HTC, Scarab, and DAF Trucks

The collaboration between HTC Heathrow, Scarab Sweepers, and DAF Trucks spans over three decades, with a shared commitment to providing solutions to customers. Andy Farley, Business Development Manager at Scarab Sweepers, emphasises, “Our sweepers are high-demand, high-performance vehicles that are essential in keeping local communities clean and hospitable for residents. Our number one priority is always our customers and our bank stock project with HTC and DAF allows us to offer short lead times and keep delivering new machines to our customers, whenever they need them. HTC offers great technical support and has in-depth knowledge of our product, which makes our working relationship seamless”. 

Navigating Challenges Together 

As the transportation sector faces ongoing changes, HTC Group and Scarab Sweepers showcase the resilience and prosperity that result from long-term collaborations. Their story underscores the industry’s evolving landscape and the importance of strategic partnerships in overcoming challenges and delivering optimal solutions to customers. 

In examining the enduring partnership of HTC Group, Scarab Sweepers, and DAF Trucks, the tangible benefits of long-term commitment within the transportation sector emerge in their success narrative. This cooperative endeavour not only addressed challenges but also established a model for lasting prosperity, affirming that cohesive businesses can withstand adversity and emerge more robust together. The partnership symbolises resilience in the face of industry challenges and presents measurable benefits that resonate in the evolving transportation landscape. Strategic decisions, such as reserving a bank stock of chassis, have proven invaluable, ensuring shorter lead times and maintaining reliability during disruptive periods like the recent pandemic. This collaborative success story serves as a testament to the advantages derived from sustained collaboration, offering a compelling narrative on the measurable benefits of enduring partnerships in the dynamic realm of transportation.  

Centurion Truck Rental proudly backs local lad Olly Russell, the dynamic English rugby league player known for his stand-off and scrum-half prowess with the Huddersfield Giants. The connection runs deep, sparked by Centurion’s dedicated operations manager, Aaron, and his son Callum, both passionate rugby enthusiasts. Callum and Olly share a history, having played together for St Anne’s.

Russell burst onto the scene in 2018 with a memorable debut against Widnes Vikings, showcasing his talent and earning an extension with the Giants until 2020. His standout performances, including a game-winning penalty against Catalans, solidified his role as Huddersfield’s top goal kicker despite limited appearances last season, with six tries to his credit—proof of his versatility and impact on the field.

Centurion Truck Rental’s collaboration with rising rugby star Olly Russell isn’t just about supporting local sports heroes —it’s about embracing shared values of dedication, resilience, and teamwork that transcend the boundaries between business and athletics. By supporting Olly, Centurion celebrates the spirit of perseverance and the pursuit of excellence, essential qualities mirrored in its commitment to delivering exceptional service to customers.

In today’s competitive business landscape, success hinges on teamwork, strategy, and adaptability—principles embodied on the rugby field and in Centurion’s operations. Just as a rugby team must collaborate seamlessly to secure victory, Centurion fosters an environment where every team member contributes to achieving the collective goal of customer satisfaction.

Centurion’s partnership with Olly Russell underscores its dedication to nurturing talent and fostering community engagement. By investing in young athletes like Olly, Centurion contributes to the growth of professional sports, inspiring the next generation of leaders both on and off the field.

Moreover, the collaboration highlights the parallels between the dynamics of rugby and the challenges of business operations. Much like a rugby team strategises to overcome obstacles, Centurion employs meticulous planning and execution to deliver unparalleled service to its clients.

Centurion Truck Rental’s alliance with Olly Russell epitomises the fusion of business acumen and sporting excellence. Through this partnership, Centurion reaffirms its commitment to promoting teamwork, resilience, and the values that drive success—both in business and on the rugby field. As Olly continues his journey to greatness, Centurion stands firmly by his side, championing the spirit of determination and camaraderie that unites us all.

At HTC Group, we take pride in providing vehicles that meet the diverse needs of our customers. One of the most inspiring examples of this versatility can be seen in the story of Gumbles Amusements. For years, this family-run business has been a staple in the UK fun fair and entertainment industry, evolving and innovating with the times. Their journey with DAF trucks is a testament to entrepreneurial spirit and the flexibility of DAF vehicles.

From humble beginnings to official establishment

Gumbles Amusements has delighted audiences for years, but the company officially came into its own about 15 years ago. Initially relying on classic ERF and Foden trucks, which are still common sights at UK fun fairs, the team at Gumbles knew they needed to adapt to continue thriving. Their search for reliable, adaptable vehicles led them to DAF, and the rest, as they say, is history.

The first leap: A 12-tonne DAF LF

The story begins in late 2014, with Gumbles Amusements’ acquisition of a 12-tonne DAF LF, an ex-carpet delivery lorry. This purchase, made by the founder’s father, marked a pivotal moment. Over six months, the team transformed this vehicle at their base, installing a diesel generator to power the fair, adding internal racking, and shelving, and fitting side skirting and ‘belly’ boxes. The modified LF also transported inflatable bumper cars and towed a catering van, showcasing the remarkable adaptability of DAF trucks.

Growing the fleet: an 18-tonne DAF LF

Buoyed by the success of their first DAF, Gumbles Amusements expanded their fleet with a second DAF LF, this time an 18-tonne model with a larger body and crew cab combination. This vehicle underwent significant modifications to enhance its functionality and aesthetics, including a Palfinger cantilever tail lift for easier loading of heavy inflatables. Despite missing out on a matching sister lorry, the new LF proved to be an invaluable addition, reinforcing the company’s commitment to innovation and operational efficiency.

Embracing the future: the DAF XF

Looking to the future, Gumbles Amusements recently acquired a DAF XF to support their new mini coaster set to arrive in 2024. Customised to integrate seamlessly with their existing fleet, the DAF XF features a Dutch-style rear bumper, a generator mount, side skirts, and a walking floor. This truck, designed to meet show truck standards, is ready to transport new rides and uphold Gumbles’ legacy of fun and innovation.

Encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship

The Gumbles Amusements story exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit and innovative thinking we celebrate at HTC Group. Their journey with DAF trucks demonstrates how versatile these vehicles can be, adapting to a variety of needs and helping businesses thrive.

For other entrepreneurs, especially those in the entertainment and events industry, the Gumbles experience underscores the importance of thinking creatively and embracing flexibility in vehicle use. Whether converting a delivery truck into a mobile power unit for a fun fair or customising a truck for specific business needs, DAF trucks offer endless possibilities.

By sharing the Gumbles Amusements story, we hope to inspire others to see the potential in DAF trucks and explore new ways to achieve their business goals. Here’s to the road ahead and the endless possibilities it holds.

In the vast landscape of HTC DAF customers, K&D Izzard Transport stands out as a shining example of a thriving partnership. Established in 2014, the business took root as a sister company to the Izzard family’s longstanding haulage business, with K&D focusing primarily on the construction sector.

Business Beginnings:

K&D Izzard Transport was born out of a desire to diversify and carve a niche in the construction industry. Established in 2014, the company quickly found its footing and became a reliable force in the transportation of construction materials.

Customer Focus:

Specialising in the delivery of crucial construction materials like bricks, blocks, roof tiles, and sandbags, K&D Izzard Transport plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth progression of building projects. Their dedication to timely and efficient deliveries has solidified their position as a key player in the construction logistics sector.

Choosing DAFs:

When it comes to their choice of trucks, K&D Izzard Transport know they can rely on DAF vehicles. The decision to opt for DAFs is rooted in their reputation for being reliable workhorses. The spacious cabs have made DAF trucks a firm family favourite, ensuring both comfort for the drivers and efficiency in the transportation process.

Services with HTC DAF:

K&D Izzard Transport has extended their partnership with HTC Dunstable DAF beyond just vehicle acquisition. Utilising HTC DAF for vehicle repair and maintenance, they have found a dependable ally in keeping their fleet in optimal condition. Moreover, the company increasingly relies on HTC DAF for parts delivery, taking advantage of the impressive stock that HTC DAF diligently maintains.

Positive Feedback:

Speaking about their experience with The HTC Group, TRP Parts and DAF, K&D Izzard Transport has expressed satisfaction with the prompt and efficient services provided. The partnership has evolved beyond the transactional, reflecting a shared commitment to excellence in the transport industry.

In the ever-expanding network of HTC DAF customers, K&D Izzard Transport serves as a testament to the enduring success and collaborative spirit that defines the relationships forged with valued clients. As HTC DAF continues to champion quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction, success stories like K&D Izzard Transport shine brightly in the journey toward excellence.

Oswestry win Scania Service Team Award 2023

West Pennine Trucks Oswestry have been declared the winners of the 2023 Scania UK Service Team Awards (STA).

The announcement was made at a black tie event at Celtic Manor Resort in Wales, recognising excellence and consistency across the Scania UK network.

It’s the first time the Oswestry branch has won the prestigious competition that is focused on a number of key customer focused metrics, making it a particularly impressive achievement.

Darren Counsell, Branch Manager Oswestry said, “I’m absolutely delighted to finish top of the table in 2023. It’s our first time winning the competition and just shows how hard the team at Oswestry have worked. It’s an award for all members of the team across service, costing, parts and the workshop, recognising the continuing efforts that the team put in day to day to focus on our customers.”

Oswestry finishing first wasn’t the only success West Pennine Trucks had in STA 2023. Stoke finished a very close second, Trafford (5^th), Middleton (6^th), Telford (9^th) and Knighton (11^th). That resulted in West Pennine Trucks finishing with the highest STA average score in the Scania UK network as all 6 depots finished in the top 11 out of 84 branches.

Richard Gilliland, Aftersales Director said, “What is particularly pleasing about the 2023 results is the level of consistency the teams across the West Pennine Trucks network have shown. Oswestry winning in 2023 follows Trafford Park winning in 2022, so we’ve had back-to-back winners which highlights the focus we place on our customers irrelevant of location.

Gilliland continued, “For our other five depots to finish in the top 11 in 2023 shows that we are aiming to deliver the best service possible and that we take pride in what we do. A lot of hard work and analysis takes place throughout the year to continually improve so to finish 2023 with this result makes me incredibly proud.”

West Pennine Trucks will continue to strive to improve in customer focused metrics and make sure they deliver the best possible service to our customers across Greater Manchester, Cheshire, Staffordshire, Shropshire and Mid-Wales.

Sapphire Vehicle Services has been announced as the new maintenance provider to innovative solar-powered transport refrigeration unit manufacturer Sunswap.

With more than 15 years of experience maintaining thousands of vehicles, and a roster of over 200 highly skilled technicians, Sapphire offers industry-leading expertise that will ensure Sunswap customers receive best-in-class service.

Under the terms of the agreement, Sapphire will provide Sunswap’s regional aftermarket service across the East of England, from its extensive vehicle maintenance unit and mobile service network.

As an F-Gas-accredited and SafeContractor-certified supplier, Sapphire is ideally equipped to service Sunswap’s cutting-edge electric transport fridges, trailers and integrated solar arrays. Sapphire will provide a one-stop shop service allowing Sunswap’s solar panel-topped trailers and Endurance TRUs to be serviced in one go. This streamlined approach will help to get vehicles back on the road faster and reduce downtime.

Sapphire will also manage Sunswap’s stock logistics, which involves transporting parts to help maintenance run smoothly, thereby maximising the uptime of Sunswap’s transport fridges.

Further to this, Sapphire will assist with Sunswap’s busy trial service for prospective customers, maintaining demo units and moving Sunswap trailers between fleets.

Sunswap Head of Aftermarket Ashkan Zadeh said the partnership would strengthen nationwide aftermarket coverage and ensuring customers have access to expert service across the UK.

“It’s brilliant to have Sapphire as a key maintenance service provider, they have a highly technical team with a focus on quality and customer satisfaction, which will ensure we keep our customers on the road throughout the year,” he said.

Sapphire’s Group Commercial Manager Grant Tadman added: “We are proud and excited to be working with Sunswap. It’s great to know that our technicians are supporting clean technology that decarbonises the cold chain, and subsequently helps to move the logistics industry forward.

www.sapphirevs.com

www.sunswap.co.uk

Mercedes-Benz Actros L hits the back of the net for Mark Harrod Ltd

Sports equipment supplier Mark Harrod Ltd is in the business of moving the goalposts but one thing remains constant – its goods are delivered in Mercedes-Benz trucks.

Now the Stafford-based operator has added a new star player to its line-up, in the shape of a stunning silver Mercedes-Benz Actros L 18-tonne curtainsider.

The 1833 model was supplied to Mark Harrod Ltd by Dealer Midlands Truck & Van. It has a luxuriously equipped BigSpace cab and is powered by a 240 kW (326 hp) 10.7-litre engine. Its body was fabricated by Commercial Body Specialists, of Stoke-on-Trent.

It joins a small fleet that also includes another Actros 18-tonne curtainsider, a pair of Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis cabs with platform bodies and three Sprinter vans.

“The new truck has taken its place at the head of our transport operation,” said General Manager Mary Brandrick. “It’s a moving advert for our business as well as a very serious workhorse, and certainly looks the part.”

Mark Harrod Ltd manufactures a wide range of sports stadium equipment such as goal posts, team shelters and more, for disciplines including football, rugby, hockey and basketball. These are delivered to clients ranging from schools and grass-roots organisations to some of the biggest names in football’s Premier League.

“Our deliveries are what I would call ‘ugly freight’,” said Mary Brandrick. “They are irregular shapes and sizes, and need to be handled by people who know what they’re doing. This means using third-party hauliers isn’t really an option, so we prefer to run our own trucks.

“The new Actros is already our vehicle of choice for the biggest deliveries and longest runs – especially if that involves going into London or other cities with clean air zones, where its Euro VI emissions standard helps protect us against unnecessary charges.

“Distances vary but the truck can often be out for three days at a time, making a number of drops. We think it’s only fair to give our driver a comfortable living and working space, which is why we specified the Actros L BigSpace.”

The Executive Board of Ballyvesey Holdings Limited is pleased to announce three new senior appointments in the business portfolio:

Tristan Savage has been appointed Head of Truck and Trailer Rental

Jonathan Campbell has been appointed Head of Plant, Access & Construction Equipment, Ireland

Mark Kennedy has been appointed Head of Plant, Access & Construction Equipment, GB

These three business leaders bring with them a wealth of commercial experience in their chosen sectors, all proven performers focused on growth. Ballyvesey Holdings Limited is delighted to announce these appointments as we continue to invest and grow across all our industrial sectors. Their appointment will provide added leadership and initiative to the growth strategies already in place and develop and deliver new opportunities to the business model.