Export & Freight Sept-Oct 21

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www.exportandfreight.com IRELAND’S TRANSPORT MAGAZINE SEPT-OCT 2021

FIRST NEW MODEL VOLVO FM HITTING THE MARK FOR SCOTTS FUELS

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Contents SEPT-OCT 2021

DOWNLOAD full PDF of this issue now at www.exportandfreight.com

COVER STORY FIRST NEW MODEL VOLVO FM HITTING THE MARK FOR SCOTTS FUELS

COMMENT It has been another busy period in the transport & logistics sector following the much welcomed summer break, and with the impact of the global pandemic easing in this part of the world, there’s a growing sense of optimism in the business community, albeit guarded.

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GENERAL NEWS

UK commercial vehicle production grew to 5,625 units in July according to the latest figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. Production grew by 7.5% compared to the same month in 2020 when production lines were running at a reduced capacity due to social distancing measures and dwindling order numbers due to low business confidence.

Moy Park places largest single order for Iveco

But production over the year-to-date remains -21.3% below the average for the five years pre-Covid, and could be impacted in the coming months because of supply shortages of semi-conductor chips and an increase in the numbers of workers who have been required to self-isolate.

Dennison Commercials Ride & Drive Days

In other news, the government’s decision to scrap the test for towing trailers up to 3,500kgs may have been condemned by safety organisations, but it has been welcomed by Logistics UK. By removing the trailer test an extra 50,000 HGV lorry tests will now be available each year which should help the driver shortage in the long term, but it may not have any impact on the looming busy Christmas period; empty shop shelves are a real possibility as a result.

With so many challenges, it may be a good idea to book a seat at the forthcoming Logistics UK’s Transport Manager conference being held at the Culloden Estate & Spa in Belfast next month. Topics to be covered at the one-day event will include logistics in urban centres, low emission vehicles, working safely with alternative fuels, a compliance update and much more.

On the truck front, we report on MAN’s new Truck Generation, and with production of DAF’s New Generation of trucks beginning in October, we had the opportunity to travel to Spain for a road test. Closer to home, we got to see up close the all-new Volvo Truck range at Dennison Commercials in Ballyclare.

Meanwhile, after a year’s absence because of the Covid-19 lockdown, the annual Export & Freight Masters Golf Day was once again staged at the Faldo Championship Golf Course at Lough Erne Resort in Fermanagh. We have a comprehensive pictorial report on what was a memorable day for all.

Well, that’s it for now, but don’t forget you can keep up to date with all the industry news 24/7 by logging on to our website at www.exportandfreight.com. You should also be receiving our FREE weekly newsletter, sent to your inbox every Wednesday; if not, let us know and we will make sure you do. In the meantime, Stay Well, Stay Safe.

natural gas trucks

Page 18

Changes to HGV driver testing process

Page 19 Page 22-23

Logistics UK’s Transport Manager Conference Set for Belfast

Page 27

SDC marks 10,000th trailer milestone at Page 32

new production facility New or used, Mercedes-Benz is Allen’s key to reliable,

Page 46

cost-effective truck operation

TEST DRIVE DAF’s New Generation Truck Line-Up Impresses in Spain

Page 20-21

REGULAR FEATURES Court Report

Page 26

Seamus Leheny, Logistics UK Policy Manager-NI

Page 28

John Martin, RHA Policy Manager for Northern Ireland

Page 30-31 Page 45

Peter Morrow – Northern Ireland Manager FORS

SPECIAL FEATURES Refrigerated Transport

Page 36-40

Helen Beggs Editor-in-Chief/Publisher

Export & Freight Golf Masters

Page 47-57

Email: Helen@4squaremedia.net

Contract Hire

Page 58-63

Irish Sea Shipping Lines

Page 65-69

IRELAND’S TRANSPORT MAGAZINE

SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE

VAN & PICK-UP IRELAND

EXPORT & FREIGHT SUBSCRIPTIONS, 4 SM (NI) Ltd

from the world of vans & pick-ups

Email: eleanor@4squaremedia.net Tel: 028 9268 8888 Web: www.exportandfreight.com

All the latest developments and new launches

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Export & Freight is Published by: 4 SM (NI) Ltd, The Old Coach House, 12 Main Street, Hillsborough BT26 6AE Tel: 028 9268 8888 Fax: 028 9268 8866 Email: info@4squaremedia.net

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AVAILABLE FROM YOUR LOCAL NEWSAGENT

Helen Beggs Editor-in-Chief, David Stokes Editor, Phil Eaglestone Commercial Vehicle Editor, Joel Byers Production Manager, Nick Stokes Designer, Eleanor Blane Accounts Manager, Helen Beggs & Garfield Harrison Publishers

CIRCULATION: Ireland’s specialist magazine for the transport industry. Export & Freight is packed with news, information, developments and trends dedicated to the local marketplace. Export & Freight is a controlled circulation journal, posted each month to exporters, manufacturers, hauliers, own account operators, transport suppliers, commercial vehicle manufacturers, rail companies, bus and coach operators and manufacturers, air and sea terminal, passenger and freight ferry operators, shipping agents and freight forwarders, to name but a few. Export & Freight is also sent to members of professional bodies, including the IRTE, Institute of Quarrying and Institute of Freight Forwarders, FTA and RHA. Export & Freight is also available in your local newsagent. Export & Freight, is published by ‘4 SM (NI) Ltd’, at The Old Coach House, 12 Main Street, Hillsborough, N. Ireland BT26 6AE. We are a completely independent voice and are not connected to any Institutes or Associations within the industry.

Our aim is to publish accurate, specific and dedicated information, targeting each sector of the transport industry, throughout Ireland. The publishers cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies supplied by the contributors. All rights reserved. The contents of this publications may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form, either in part or in full, including photocopying and recording, without the written consent of the owner. Nor may any part of this publication be stored in a retrieval system of any nature without prior written consent of 4 SM (NI) Ltd.

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Terberg acquires MPM Specialist Vehicles in Ireland The Royal Terberg Group has acquired a majority shareholding in MPM Specialist Vehicles in Hillsborough, County Down to support further growth and expansion across the island of Ireland. already partially integrated with Terberg Special Vehicles, so a smooth transition to the new structure is ensured.

MPM started their business in 2010 and have represented Terberg Special Vehicles since inception. MPM also represents other OEM brands across the Fuel tank, Fire and Rescue, trailers and associated equipment sectors.

MPM Ireland has 11 employees; founders Mark and Joanne McCluskey will remain minority shareholders and Mark McCluskey will continue as company director. Because of the shared trading history MPM is

Alisdair Couper, MD from Terberg DTS UK Ltd, said: “This is an exciting time for the team at MPM which will trade as Terberg MPM Ireland. Strong growth and development plans are already well advanced and we look forward to expanding the team and operations in Ireland in the coming months.”

Pictured here left to right: Alisdair Couper (Terberg DTS UK), Joanne and Mark McCluskey (MPM Specialist Vehicles).

McCulla Protects Fridge Power with Solar Technology from Genie Insights Temperature controlled logistics provider McCulla (Ireland) Ltd has taken delivery of 25 refrigerated trailers fitted with specialised solar panels designed for use on vehicles, supplied by fleet technology specialist Genie Insights. The solar panels keep fridge batteries topped up to avoid costly breakdowns and to prolong the life of the battery.

The Genie panels represent a major advance in thin film solar cell technology, known as CIGS (Copper Indium Gallium Selenide), that allows the manufacture of robust and flexible photovoltaic (PV) panels which are better suited to use on vehicles than traditional glass solar panels.

Uniquely the panels supplied

by Genie Insights, which are manufactured in the UK, are available in custom sizes to suit each operators’ individual needs.

Established over 50 years ago and operating from sites in Lisburn and Dublin, McCulla runs a fleet of over 100 trucks and 180 trailers including articulated trailers, refrigerated vans and rigid vehicles. McCulla provides ambient, chilled and frozen logistics solutions throughout Ireland, the United Kingdom and Europe and has already worked with Genie Insights on fleet and workshop IT projects.

The 25 Schmitz Cargobull S.KO COOL SMART refrigerated semi-trailers are fitted with Carrier Transicold Vector HE 19 units and come equipped with Schmitz Cargobull’s TrailerConnect telematics system, providing McCulla with realtime data of the location and temperature conditions of each asset. The trailers are built with FERROPLAST panels that are

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resistant to moisture, ensuring payloads are kept safe and insulation levels are maintained.

McCulla is playing an industryleading role in the move toward environmentally-friendly transport and the company also recently purchased Iveco Stralis NP gaspowered trucks, which will be fuelled with biomethane gas produced by McCulla’s own anaerobic digester plant.

“At McCulla we have made

a strong commitment to the environment and the arrival of these new trailers with the latest technology from Schmitz Cargobull, Carrier and Genie Insights represents a further important step in the reduction of our carbon footprint,” says Brian Beattie, Operations Director, McCulla. ”Crucially, the solar panels prolong battery life and improve battery reliability so they also save us downtime and money.

Genie Insights has again proved

to be an important partner in our transformation to a more efficient, safer and greener operator.”

McCulla joins a growing number of transport operators that have adopted CIGS solar panels from Genie Insights. The County Antrim based company is an established supplier of technology to the transport sector with expertise in implementing software for managing fleet maintenance and compliance.

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RHA Lends Support to Proposed New Transport Service and Driver Rest Facility Hub A new Transport Service and Driver Rest Facility hub is being planned on a site adjacent to the new Drumahoe Roundabout on the A6 between Londonderry/Derry to Dungiven road.

The RHA’s NI Policy Manager John Martin recently met up with Gordon Chambers, Director of W&J Chambers Ltd, Drumahoe, and their agent David Dalzell, Chartered Landscape Architect and Chartered Town Planner, to discuss the proposed development.

- Refuelling/recharging facilities for low-emission vehicles.

“The RHA have supported the planning application for this facility given we represent both road freight and coach operators within the UK and Ireland and its seen as critical as it will improve road safety, provides much needed driver welfare and rest facilities and enhances the visitor experience when travelling to the North West region,” says John.

- Hot drinks and hot food will be available from 8am to 8pm for consumption on the premises with internal seating.

- Car wash, air and water.

- Free parking up to 2 hours (for all vehicles including cars, motorhomes, coaches and lorries).

- Cycle parking.

- Ancillary retail facilities selling convenience items for travellers.

- Accessible toilets and babychanging facilities. Toilet and hand-washing facilities will be free (with no need to make a purchase) unlike “customeronly toilets” found in some filling stations.

The A6 between Londonderry/ Derry and Dungiven is an important part of the North Western transport corridor connecting Belfast and the North West. This route is of strategic economic importance, providing an essential road link between the Belfast and the North West and enhancing visitor experiences and business access to the region which will result in an overall economic boast for the region.

“Within Northern Ireland this type of facility has been lacking where drivers of commercial goods vehicles and coaches have not had adequate facilities to rest, consume their food or freshen up during their journeys,” adds John.

“The development of the proposed hub at Drumahoe will address those issues thus enhancing road safety. It will also ensure commercial drivers have access to state-of-the-art facilities including driver breakout and rest areas, shower and wash facilities and communication hubs which will result in the sector being more attractive for people looking at a career as a commercial driver.

“This is something the RHA have long campaigned for over the past number of years and is currently not provided in this region and has been brought more into focus due to the covid-19 pandemic where driver welfare and rest facilities were closed or access was denied.”

He says the Department for Infrastructure and the current Minister Nichola Mallon have to be commended on their

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- Shower and washing facilities can be provided for HGV drivers, including secure lockers in the shower/washing area.

- Tourist Information Point.

- ATM, and Access to a cash operated telephone.

- Amenity/picnic area and equipped children’s play area.

- Motorhome Service Point.

- Associated access and landscaping. commitment for seeing the A6 road scheme between Londonderry/ Derry and Dungiven through to near competition. Anyone who has travelled on this route over recent months will undoubtedly be impressed by the scheme and it will enhance access to the North West.

The A6 is the main route between Northern Ireland’s two main cities and is utilised by an estimated 15,000 vehicles per day and the proposed facility will complement the new road network as the existing facilities fall short of what’s necessary in this modern era.

The proposed new facility is designed to cater for all road users including private cars, goods vehicles and coaches. In particular, given the significant increase in Coach tourism in the North West, it also caters for the needs of coach passengers.

This will be the only facility of its

kind for commercial drivers in the north-west whereby HGV drivers crossing from County Donegal or leaving Foyle Port will look to make a stop having navigated the busy and congested roads around the City before embarking upon the more free-flowing traffic along the A6 as they will seek to park-up and refresh themselves before making for Belfast, Dublin or farther afield.

This represents a significant investment of circa £7.2million in the local area, with 80 construction jobs and 50 jobs when operational with an anticipated rates revenue to Derry City and Strabane District Council in the region of £110,000 per annum.

Parking Areas Parking and circulation space will be provided for coaches, caravans and motorhome and HGVs in dedicated areas to the required specification. The southern part of the site will be reserved for HGV parking and refuelling, and a gas tank compound, and there will be rest areas for Coach and HGV drivers which are currently lacking in the north-west region.

Amenities

It is envisaged that the facility will be open 24-hours (facilities which are also currently lacking in this area). As a minimum it will be open 12 hours per day between 8am and 8pm every day except Christmas day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

It’s proposed the facility will have provision for: - Fuel for private vehicles, Heavy Goods Vehicles and Coaches/Buses.

The planning application was up for decision with the planners in Derry and Strabane District Council on the 9thJune 2021 but the matter was deferred for 6 months.

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PUSHING THE LIMITS

29/06/2021 09:58

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3T Power partners with Henderson Group to deliver 100% renewable electricity Northern Ireland’s only supplier of 100% locally-generated renewable electricity for businesses, 3T Power, says the Henderson Group has renewed its partnership with the energy supply company for a third year, confirming a contract valued at £5m per annum.

Doubling down on their efforts to minimise the company’s impact on the environment by reducing their carbon footprint and focusing on sustainability in all aspects of their supply chain, Henderson Group’s Mallusk-based headquarters will continue to be powered by wind electricity generated exclusively via 3T Power’s network of independent wind turbines dotted across Northern Ireland.

Owners of the SPAR, EUROSPAR, ViVO, ViVOXTRA and ViVO Essentials franchises in Northern Ireland, Henderson Group has been distributing food and groceryrelated products to the convenience retail sector for over 120 years. The Group consists of four companies, each of which operates under

period since switching to 3T Power, it is estimated that Henderson Group has achieved a 1,000 tonne per year carbon reduction, equal to the weight of three Boeing 747 jets.The partnership will also ensure long-term energy savings through the confirmation of a low-cost, secure tariff.

Glen Crumley, Energy Manager, Henderson Group and Shauna Forbes, Director, 3T Power celebrate a continued partnership.

the Henderson Group banner.

facilities and retail network since

3T Power has been supplying clean energy to the Group’s warehousing

2018, helping to meet Henderson Group’s CO2 reduction goals. In the

Derry Bros Awarded All-Ireland Business Allstar Accreditation Derry Bros Customs & Shipping has been awarded a Business Allstar Accreditation from the All-Ireland Business Foundation, which exists to promote meritocracy and encourage businesses to aspire to reach the highest level.

Brigid Derry, Managing Director at Derry Bros said: “We’re absolutely delighted to receive this Business All-Star Accreditation.

Our team have been really busy over the last eight weeks working alongside the All-Ireland Business Foundation to achieve this status.

“This accreditation is an outstanding achievement and recognises the hard work and dedication of our team in providing a best-in-class service to all our clients.”

Business All-Star accredited companies are defined as; progressive, indigenous Irish businesses which meet the highest standards of verified performance, trust and customer centricity. In achieving this accreditation Derry Bros joins a unique group of businesses.

Brigid added: “I believe this continues to demonstrate our commitment to improving our service to our clients and suppliers.

And is a further endorsement of all the hard work and effort the team put in day

“We were drawn to working with the 3T Power team because of the team’s strong ties to the local community, competitive pricing, and their commitment to helping Henderson Group meet our requirement to be carbon neutral on our electricity supply and compliance with our zerocarbon commitment,” commented Glen Crumley, Group Energy Manager, Henderson Group.

and night . I’m really proud my team are getting the recognition they deserve.”

The three pillars of All-Ireland Business AllStar accreditation are Performance, Trust and Customer Centricity. In a globalized world, where customers have a choice, they tend to opt for the highest quality, efficiency and convenience - wherever it can be found.

The Foundation is responsible for identifying and accrediting best-in-class Irish businesses, overseeing the All-Ireland Business Accreditations.

It also offers accredited businesses with opportunities to engage in peer-dialogue, collaboration and support to each other. It also allows them to attain and, most importantly, maintain the highest verified standards for the benefit of both businesses and consumers.

It is led by an advisory board made up of a panel of volunteer judges, mentors and business experts. The independent adjudication panel is chaired by Dr. Briga Hynes, head of the Kemmy Business School at the University of Limerick and Kieran Ring, CEO of the Global Institute.

Renault Trucks Ireland Officially Opens new Dublin Depot A new state of the art facility that is home to Renault Trucks Ireland has been officially opened at Setanta House at Ballycoolin in Dublin.

The tape cutting ceremony, hosted by the team at Setanta Vehicle Sales, was performed by the Irish Minister of State at the Department of Transport Hildegarde Naughton, watched

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on by Setanta’s Managing Director Harry Nash, Bruno Blin, President, Renault Trucks Global, and other leading figures, including Managing Director, Renault Trucks UK

& Ireland Carlos Rodrigues.

Export & Freight will in its next issue carry a comprehensive report on the new facility which represents the biggest dealership premises in the country.

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ITT Hub gears up for accelerated growth with TCS&D ahead of 2022 event Following the resounding success of the first edition of ITT Hub, industry-leading organiser Farnborough International is announcing growth plans for 2022.

With the addition of cold chain, storage, and distribution, set to become an integral sector within the technology in commercial road transport event, the new plans will see the event grow by 20% and attract an additional 2,000 attendees and 50 expert exhibitors.

Taking place at the world-class Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre, ITT Hub will utilise an additional 4000 sqm of indoor exhibition space, which will be developed as the Cold Chain Hub. The new branded area will be supported by the TCS&D (Temperature Controlled Storage and Distribution) Event and will accommodate over 50 established companies in this high value sector of the market.

Through the development of this collaboration, ITT Hub’s expanded positioning within the industry will target additional buyers from the

frozen food and pharmaceutical sectors, together with storage and distribution buyers. Leading magazine TCS&D will be the key media title supporting the Cold Chain Hub, with Martyn Cogan Director, TCS&D managing the stand sales and commercial activities with the ITT Hub team.

To continue building its portfolio of internationally renowned transportation, aerospace and aviation events, Farnborough International acquired ITT Hub in June 2021 from Binswood Media with the aim to establish the event as the premier platform to spearhead the future of transport and revolutionise the commercial vehicle market. The exhibition will continue to connect businesses from across Europe as the industry transitions to net zero emissions and strives to reach maximum efficiency.

Gareth Rogers, CEO of Farnborough International said: “The entire

distribution sector for trailers and cold chain is a hugely significant part of the transport piece. Refrigerated products and technology are advancing at pace, as part of the drive towards decarbonisation of transport.

At Farnborough International, we have the space, the team, the expertise and above all, the commitment to bringing the entire commercial road-based transport sector to ITT Hub. “The inaugural ITT Hub was a fantastic success and this innovative partnership between ITT Hub and TCS&D is just the first step in our strategy to make it the number one event in the UK for this sector.

Given the level of interest in exhibitor re-bookings for next year, we know that the market will see this as a very positive move, as we support the industry to create a fantastic showcase to be proud of.”

Martyn Cogan, Director of TCS&D,

said: “As an established family business, we have a long history in this market, and we look forward to hosting our companies, supporters and industry colleagues at this world-class venue. We will be able to use our expertise in the sector coupled with the much larger venue team to create a pioneering showcase for the industry.

“We are aiming to bring back the ever popular “TCS&D Trade Dinner” to the first evening of the show, creating an event which takes us to another level. It’s a great opportunity for the entire industry to support this collaboration and I can’t wait to get started.”

Following the 2021 event, taking place at the East of England Arena near Peterborough on the 7-8 September 2021, the 2022 TCS&D Show will be integrated into ITT Hub, running on an annual basis. The first TCS&D event was established by Richard Cogan back in 1981 and has a strong reputation, attracting over 1500 visitors over two days.

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New Appointments at Schmitz Cargobull Reinforce Major UK Investment Schmitz Cargobull UK and Ireland has made three strategic appointments in its sales team ahead of production starting at its new UK factory, which will see 2,000 new trailers built every year when it reaches full capacity.

“I’ve been fortunate to work with premium brands over the years, so I’m delighted to join Schmitz Cargobull UK, especially during the period of expansion.

Stephen Mallett, whose career with the manufacturer began 27 years ago and has included roles in production, engineering, operations and sales, has been promoted to Head of Sales with a remit to focus on business development.

“I’m looking forward to meeting existing customers and strengthening those relationships, as well as introducing more customers to the quality, longevity and innovation offered by Schmitz Cargobull products and services.”

He is joined by two new sales managers, Lee Roberton, who is looking after customers in the South East of England, and Kevin Wynd whose role centres on Scotland, Northern Ireland and North East England.

Mallett said: “This is a really exciting time for Schmitz Cargobull and I’m proud to be leading such a talented and experienced sales team.

“My focus now is on how we maximise our growth opportunities, deepen our partnerships with operators and make sure we continue to offer the best products, services and packages on the market

Kevin Wynd whose role centres on Scotland, Northern Ireland and North East England.

at competitive prices which represent true value for money.”

Ireland with exactly what they need, when they need it.”

He adds: “Our new production facility in Manchester gives us the potential to provide even more operators in the UK and

Roberton, whose 35-year career in sales includes previous roles with Caterpillar Dealerships, Genie UK and Greenshields JCB, said:

Wynd, who has over 10 years’ sales experience, with the last seven at Arnold Clark, said: “As the European market leader, Schmitz Cargobull is an incredibly well-respected manufacturer.

With the new factory opening in Manchester, there’s never been a better time to join the company.

This is an exciting opportunity for me and I look forward to meeting and building strong partnerships with new and existing clients.”

Schmitz Cargobull’s new 5,500 sq m facility at the Southmoor Industrial Estate, Wythenshawe, is now producing custom-built, market-specific vehicles for customers in the UK and Ireland.

MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd appoint Customer Service Management Director MAN Truck & Bus UK has announced the appointment of Glen Crompton as Customer Service Management Director.

He succeeds Matt Squires who was recently appointed as Director of New Truck Sales for MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd. Glen joined MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd in 2019 as Head of UK Parts and over the last two years has helped develop and re-structure the function. Originally joining the automotive industry in September 1994, he brings over two decades of experience in the commercial vehicle sector, including previously working in marketing, parts distribution and the management of multiple aftermarket locations.

Stefan Thyssen, Managing Director of MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd, said: “We are thrilled to have appointed Glen into the position of Customer Service Management Director.

His experience with the MAN brand and his

Glen Crompton

established customer relationships, together with his knowledge of the commercial vehicle industry, has and will continue to prove a huge asset to the company.

“Glen’s background means he is uniquely qualified to take on this responsibility and we all wish him well in his new role.”

Glen commented: “I’m delighted to be given the opportunity to further my career with the MAN brand. As a full range commercial vehicle manufacturer, with products ranging from 3.0 to 250 tonne, it’s vital that we maintain and support our customers’ businesses with

a range of compelling, robust, efficient and highly cost effective customer service solutions “Strengthening our vehicle offering is our established and highly focused commercial vehicle dedicated dealer network, who work tirelessly around the clock to ensure we deliver an outstanding and unsurpassed level of tailored customer service.”

“As I move into this new and exciting role, and take another step within the MAN brand, I’d like to thank the MAN Parts Supply team for all their hard work, dedication and commitment.” said Glen.

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re

AC T I V E LY, P R AC T I CA LLY, W E ’ LL H E LP YO U T H R I V E AG A I N These challenging times are affecting us all in many different ways.

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‘Rankin’ the lorry hits the road to raise money for Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke Local Mallusk business, AT&T Rentals, has made the commitment to donate a significant portion of its weekly rental income from the latest addition to its fleet to local health charity Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke (NICHS).

AT&T Rentals, a family business, has specialised in truck and trailer hire throughout Northern Ireland for over 30 years. Recently the company elected to put NICHS forward as its charity of choice. The decision came after the untimely and devastating loss of one of their long-term employees, Norman Rankin, who passed suddenly of an undetected heart condition last October.

Tanya Joannides, HR Manager at AT&T Rentals, says: “Norman had been with the company for over 12 years. We are a tight-knit group here at AT&T and Norman was a key member of the team. He was a much-loved and respected colleague

and looked up to by junior staff. He was a mentor and a role-model.”

would have wanted, to support the charity.”

To honour Norman, the company has purchased a new MAN lorry and branded it with the charity’s distinctive bright red logo. The lorry is to be named ‘Rankin’, as a memorial to Norman, recognising his contribution to the business.

Jackie Trainor, Head of Income Generation at NICHS, says: “Almost 90% of our care services and research here at NICHS are funded by public donations. We are so thankful to the generosity of local businesses, like AT&T Rentals.

Tanya says: “The loss of Norman shook the team to the core. It was important for us find a way to honour him and to remember him.

NICHS was a charity that Norman had a lot of respect for, after his own father died of a heart attack.

We chatted about it as a team and decided that this is what we wanted to do. It is what Norman

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Norman Rankin’ the lorry hits the road to raise money for and our thoughts are NI Chest Heart & Stroke. with his partner Frances and son Phillip. But, it could help to prevent a death is our hope that funds like Norman’s in the future.” raised through this new partnership

Updated LGV Instructor course to help employers tackle driver shortage The RTITB Instructor Academy has relaunched its LGV Instructor course, helping employers to address the driver shortage with highly skilled in-house trainers to upskill existing employees, retain existing drivers, and support recruitment programmes.

“There is a national shortfall of 60,000+ LGV drivers and an estimated 30,000 vocational driving test slots were lost in 2020 due to Covid19. Add to that the knock-on effects of BREXIT, and it is truly a critical time for the industry to identify, nurture, and retain talent,” says Simon Docherty, RTITB Instructor Academy Manager.

CPC training, carrying out post-assessment and incident remedial training, teaching new skills to novice and existing drivers, and improving drivers’ confidence when out on the road, to name a few. This adds significant value for companies investing in developing their own driver talent pipeline.

With qualified in-house LGV Instructors, businesses will have the resource to run initiatives such as ‘warehouse to wheels’ or ‘office to wheels’ programmes, identifying employees interested in upskilling or retraining to fill vacant driver positions. Employers can also easily run similar external schemes, targeting potential drivers through programmes aimed at those in the retail or hospitality sector, for example.

The revised LGV Instructor course includes a more candidate-friendly design, catering to a wide range of different learning styles. The course first provides candidates with the necessary theory, then encourages learners to put this knowledge into practice and confirm skills through practical exercises. It also features updated content surrounding legislation, ensuring drivers and businesses are up to date and compliant.

“Qualified Instructors will be able to create LGV driver courses that match the needs of learners in these different programmes, while delivering high quality training,” says Simon.

“We mustn’t overlook the importance of delivering training to a professional standard, as this is what makes drivers feel valued and engaged, in turn contributing to better retention, keeping the skills you need in your business.”

“From a candidate’s perspective, the hands-on approach really sets this course apart,” says Simon Docherty, RTITB Instructor Academy Manager. “It avoids information overload, allowing candidates to develop their skills and confidence through practice, ensuring they remain engaged and motivated. This makes it a great professional development experience for both new and returning Instructors.”

Although the LGV Instructor course is based around licence acquisition, it has been designed to enable qualified Instructors to also apply the skills learned in many other driver training situations. For instance, carrying out driver inductions, delivering Driver

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Course Features The course typically covers the role of the instructor, practical driving assessment, in-cab instruction, classroom instruction, the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency)

driving test, and training route selection.

Instructors completing the course should be able to discuss and demonstrate the subject knowledge required for LGV driver instruction, as well as lesson planning and course management techniques, in order to deliver instruction to the required high standard.

“With all of our courses, our approach to training is about confidence as well as competence,” says Simon. “Being an instructor is about far more than just equipping candidates with the theoretical knowledge to pass a test, so our courses coach candidates in the skills and instructional techniques they will really need to deliver exceptional workplace transport training, and then verify that independently.”

The course culminates with an independent examination by the National Register of LGV Instructors, which must be completed successfully to qualify. To help trainee Instructors focus on this end goal, the updated course content is more aligned to this examination.

The NRI is the only standard endorsed by DVSA, and is supported by Logistics UK and Road Haulage Association, as well as JAUPT for the Driver CPC Instructor examination, giving employers and Instructors the reassurance of an industry recognised qualification.

“Our LGV Instructor course has been the preferred choice of many of the UK’s leading transport and logistics companies for more than 40 years. With the latest update, we are supporting employers and the wider industry by continuing to set the standard for novices entering the profession and experienced LGV Instructors looking to refresh and update their knowledge,” Simon concludes.

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FORS-funded practical driver training resumes FORS has announced it has resumed its funded on-cycle driver safety training, in line with government guidelines easing COVID-19 restrictions.

aware of their responsibility to all who use the road, with the classroom session focusing on how drivers can safely share the road.

The practical on-cycle sessions form part of the FORS Professional Safe Urban Driving and Van Smart courses, and see drivers experience the road from a cyclist’s point of view.

And it works. A huge 89 per cent of past participants surveyed stated that their understanding of the issues faced by vulnerable road users had improved thanks to the FORS Professional Safe Urban Driving and Van Smart on-cycle training.

At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, FORS introduced a temporary relaxation of the on-cycle element, instead allowing drivers to meet the work-related road risk (WRRR) training requirements of the FORS Standard having completed only the theory session, with the practical element to be completed in 2022. As part of the scheme’s ongoing commitment to ensure support for its members in light of the pandemic, FORS continued to fully fund some theory places, which were all delivered online.

However, in line with revised government guidelines, FORS has now resumed offering funded face-to-face FORS Professional Safe Urban Driving and Van Smart – the full training which now includes the practical on-cycle sessions.

Sonia Hayward, FORS Manager, said, “Many businesses are now beginning to welcome workers back to offices, and this, coupled with an increased desire to cycle for commuting and leisure, makes road safety training as important as ever. We are really pleased to be able to offer these funded places to members once again.

“Commercial vehicle drivers are well versed in

Consisting of two 3.5-hour modules, one classroom based and one practical, FORS Professional Safe Urban Driving and Van Smart are also fully aligned to meet the requirements of both TfL WRRR and the Construction Logistics & Community Safety (CLOCS) Standard. FORS Professional Safe Urban Driving is driver CPC accredited, and both courses are worth six CPD hours.

navigating busy roads from the perspective of their HGV cab or van, but many will not have cycled on busy routes for several years – if at all – making the on-cycle training a very valuable learning experience for our members.”

The practical on-cycle element of FORS Professional Safe Urban Driving and Van Smart training gives commercial vehicle drivers firsthand experience of the challenges vulnerable road users face and makes them even more

Sonia Hayward adds, “When FORS asks commercial vehicle drivers to swap the HGV cab or their van for a bicycle during a practical training session, it can have a hugely positive impact on road safety. Practical sessions truly embed the theory-based learning, helping to upskill a driving workforce with the training they need to help improve safety for all road users.”

For more information about becoming a FORS member, or for FORS members to book a place on a FORS Professional Safe Urban Driving or Van Smart, visit: www.fors-online.org.uk

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FIRST NEW MODEL VOLVO FM HITTING THE MARK FOR SCOTTS FUELS Over the past 67 years, Scotts Fuels has built a strong reputation of honesty, integrity and reliability.

Established by Thomas Scott in 1954, the company is now run by Thomas’ grandson Robert and is well known across the fuel and lubricants sector in Northern Ireland for providing a service you can rely on.

It stands to reason, then, that this family-owned business only invests in vehicles it can trust to do the job.

“It’s a little bit different here than running a massive transport fleet,” explains Robert. “We don’t really have spare trucks to fall back on, we need our lorries out on the road to keep up with the demand and to make sure we keep our customers supplied with the goods they’ve ordered. So, we have to opt for lorries that guarantee minimum downtime.”

The latest ‘trustworthy’ truck to join the company’s 45-strong fleet is something a little special, however. Scotts Fuels has recently put the first new model Volvo FM in Northern Ireland into operation.

Supplied by Dennison Commercials, this finelooking 6x2 tractor – paired with a tri-axle rear

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steer fuel tanker built by Lakeland Tankers – is powered by Volvo’s D13K engine, producing 500 hp and 2,500 Nm of torque. Scotts Fuel has opted for the ‘Lite’ version of the FM, with a smaller and liftable pusher axle.

“That just allows us to maximise payload,” explains Robert. “It’s 44-tonnes fully loaded, and this version with the light axle gives us the chance to get more fuel into the tanker.”

Clever Innovations The latest model of the FM is packed full of improvements to the driver environment and clever innovations that, Volvo claims, delivers a higher level of comfort, safety and productivity.

A lowered door line, new rearview mirrors and a passenger corner camera improve visibility, while the new cab has raised A-pillars

that give it up to one extra cubic metre of space and more light than its predecessor.

The interior also features a new dashboard offering more storage space, new colours and a modern dynamic display. The cluster includes a 12-inch high-resolution instrument display with a user-friendly interface where the driver can easily see important information and select between four different screen views, depending on the driving situation.

The new FM also has a nine-inch side display for infotainment, navigation support, transport information and camera monitoring. The display allows interaction in various ways: with the intuitively positioned buttons on the steering wheel, through voice control, or directly via the touchscreen and display control panel. Both the instrument display and the

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side display work in numerous languages.

In addition, a new steering neck tilt option offers a more ergonomic driving position.

“The driver is very happy with the new vehicle, as you can imagine,” says Robert. “He tells me the Globetrotter cab is really comfortable and the truck certainly has plenty of power. The new driver interface is a real hit as well, he was raving to me about it the other day and Dennison gave us a proper in-depth handover to make sure we were all up to speed with how it all works.”

Dealer Relationship The strong relationship with Dennison Commercials was a key reason behind the order.

“The service and support we get from them is very good; on the rare occasion there’s any issue, it gets dealt with very fast,” adds Robert.

“They are a great company to deal with – a genuine family-run business like ourselves.”

This is a drop-in replacement for regular red diesel and road diesel, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90 per cent. Then on the other side of the business we are delivering high-quality lubricants, Ad-Blue and grease across the UK and Ireland, everything up to 30,000 litre bulk loads,” says Roger.

“It is a bit of a niche business, I suppose, but it’s all we know having been in the family for three generations. My grandfather started off driving a tanker for Esso back in the 1930s and then became a depot manager and subsequently a distributor for them. That’s how it all got going.

My father then ran the company for many years and now its with me, third generation.

“The business has really grown over the years and we now employ roughly 50 members of staff and drivers in various locations across the UK &

Ireland. We certainly can’t complain, things are moving along nicely. We are keeping nice and busy that’s for sure, taking on more business and looking after the customers we have already.”

And with its new Volvo FM already delivering the goods, and six more to follow shortly, this hard-working family firm looks well set to go from strength-to-strength.

www.scottsfuels.com

The close bond with its local Volvo dealer has led Scotts Fuels to place an additional order for six new FM rigids that will be joining the company over the coming months – making Volvo the dominant manufacturer on the fleet.

“We run Scania, DAF and Volvo but its Volvo that is our first choice, certainly in more recent years,” says Robert. “We know it’s a reliable product.

You get the whole package, the trucks are great and the aftersales service is second to none.”

The new FM is expected to do around 150,000km a year delivering a variety of fuels to the company’s customers.

Three Generations “We transport red diesel, road diesel, heating oil and petrol throughout Northern Ireland, to domestic, agricultural, industrial and other business sectors. We’re now also supplying HVO vegetable-based paraffinic fuel as well.

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MOY PARK PLACES LARGEST SINGLE ORDER FOR IVECO NATURAL GAS TRUCKS IN THE UK Food supply is critical to a functioning society, but there are a lot of mouths to feed and therefore a lot of ground to cover.

As concerns grow over the vehicular impact on the environment, food supply giants Moy Park, Northern Ireland’s largest private sector business and one of the UK’s top food suppliers, has turned to Bio-LNG-fuelled IVECO trucks to help greenify its logistics operation.

a zero waste to landfill policy since 2015.

Supplied by South West Truck & Van in Avonmouth are 50 IVECO AS440S46TX/P LNG Stralis NP 460 tractors, destined to operate out of the company’s Sleaford and Ashbourne facilities. These are to run on 100% Bio-LNG sourced through anaerobic digestion, with Roadgas commissioning an on-site refuelling station and providing an extensive training course to those involved in its operation.

Running day and night to maximise efficiency, all vehicles will return to base for refuelling and have been specified with a tank capacity giving a range of around 400 miles.

The creation of gas fuels through anaerobic digestion means that Moy Park can take advantage of ultimate emissions reductions, negating waste output by collecting the gases given off for vehicle fuel while solids can be used as fertiliser for farms, locking carbon into earth and away from the atmosphere.

– This is known as the ‘circular economy’, a methodology IVECO believes will open the door to negative greenhouse gases in vehicular transport. Moy Park has maintained

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The new biogas trucks, run via a 5-year IVECO Capital ops lease are expected to cover around 60,000kms a year each, which Moy Park estimates will offset around an impressive 5,600 tonnes of CO2 annually.

While natural gas can deliver an uplift in fuel efficiency over its diesel counterpart, it also reduces CO2 emissions by up to 95% when operating on biomethane fuels.

IVECO natural gas trucks are also capable of running at just 71dB, circumventing noise pollution restrictions to make an ideal partner for the urban leg of any mission or nighttime deliveries. The Natural Power Stralis will operate on a mixture of routes, delivering food products to regional delivery hubs and directly into a variety of supermarkets.

“Moy Park’s in-house trials have demonstrated that vehicles running on biomethane reduced CO2 emissions by more than 80%. Following these extensive trials of alternative fuels and vehicle providers, we are investing in 50 liquefied natural gas HGV trucks from IVECO,”

commented Hugh Nicholson, Moy Park’s Director of Logistics. “This is a huge step forward in transitioning our own entire core fleet of 120 tractor units to gas by 2023, and we also plan to work with our third-party logistics partners in their CO2 reduction programmes as part of our overall Net Zero Carbon strategy.”

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Changes to HGV driver testing process a positive step forward, says Logistics UK The government’s decision to scrap the test for towing trailers up to 3,500kgs have been condemned by safety charity IAM RoadSmart, but it has been welcomed by Logistics UK. Removing the trailer test, says the government, means that an extra 50,000 HGV lorry tests will now be available each year, and says Logistics UK these changes to the HGV driver testing process show the government is now moving at pace towards a solution to the current driver shortage.

“The increase in testing capacity by a third is very welcome, but these promises need to be implemented quickly if they are to make significant difference to the current shortage,” comments Elizabeth de Jong, Policy Director at Logistics UK. “With access to tests a key barrier to recruits wishing to join the occupation, the government’s measures to speed up the process of qualifying as an HGV driver – including the removal of staged testing and allowing authorised private sector examiners to undertake parts of the examination – will increase testing capacity

significantly and have a positive effect in the longer-term.

“However, the impact of these measures is unlikely to make a significant difference on the driver shortage if they cannot be implemented in time for the industry’s Christmas peak, with DVSA, DVLA and the wider training industry needing time to apply the changes and adapt their operations.”

She adds: “Logistics UK had strongly voiced our concerns about the proposed abolition of the B+E driver category, as this could pose a risk to road safety. However, Logistics UK has been assured that there will be a package of safety mitigation measures introduced; we will be working with government to ensure safety is prioritised.”

Meanwhile, safety charity IAM RoadSmart has condemned the changes, saying the timing of the announcement, which came just

days after a consultation period closed, shows the consultation process was a sham.

While the DVSA is still encouraging all car drivers to undertake training to tow trailers and caravans, it hasn’t satisfied IAM RoadSmart.

“We are very disappointed that a consultation that only closed a few days ago has led to an immediate cessation of trailer testing for car drivers.” says IAM RoadSmart Policy & Research Director Neil Greig. “It is clear that the government intended to do this all along which makes the whole consultation process something of a waste of time.

“Whilst the HGV driver shortage is clearly a big issue for society, our concerns remain that trailer use requires a special set of skills that are best instilled by a testing process.”

He adds: “If a test is no longer a requirement, this raises some

serious safety concerns, especially at this busy holiday time. We are very concerned the decision will exacerbate an existing safety situation as currently, as per DVSA’s own safety checks, up to 1 in 6 caravans they stopped had a serious safety issue, while 4 in 10 small trailers were also found with serious safety issues. Many of these could have been avoided by better training and awareness of towing safety best practice.”

“The DSA had a clear safety reason for introducing the test in 1997, and these reasons are still valid.

People need proper training to be able to drive an articulated vehicle, particularly when they are doing so for the first time.”

For how the rules apply in Northern Ireland, check out the latest information at https://www. nidirect.gov.uk/articles/carstowing-trailers-or-caravans

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DAF’S NEW GENERATION TRUCK LINE-UP IMPRESSES ON THE ROAD IN SPAIN With production of DAF’s New Generation of trucks beginning in October, it was perhaps appropriate that we were introduced to the range at a special Press Ride & Drive event in sunny in Spain, as Export & Freight’s Phil Eaglestone reports.

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RIDE & DRIVE

WWW.EXPORTANDFREIGHT.COM Seeing up close the new line up of DAF’s XF, XG and XG+ was an impressive sight, and being able to climb up into the cab was an even more memorable experience, as was the opportunity to get behind the wheel to take to the open road.

During our first night, staying at the Hotel La Bobadilla in the Sierra de Loja area, between Granada and the Costa del Sol, the team from DAF whetted our appetites not just for the evening dinner to follow, but for the day ahead with an informative presentation on the new truck range.

Next morning after breakfast we headed out to the truck park, complete with mandatory face mask and adhering to social distancing measures, to select our first ride & drive of the day; we had the opportunity to spend about an hour in each model, and initial impressions were, well, impressive!

First class driver comfort starts with excellent cab accessibility and we weren’t disappointed, with only three steps, positioned in a comfortable ‘staircase’ style. For an easy access, the new steering wheel can be parked in a far-forward position.

On entering the cab, which has the look and feel of a luxury car, drivers will be overwhelmed by the interior space, as we were, while achieving the best seating position was child’s play. Our eyes were immediately drawn to the dashboard which features an attractive, central 12” display for all vehicle-related information; all key information is visible at a glance.

The most important buttons are perfectly positioned on the dashboard and on the newly designed steering wheel for best intuitive operation. The design is fully in line with the DAF philosophy of ‘Hands on the Wheel, Eyes on the Road’, to avoid taking the eyes of the road and contributing to the highest comfort and safety. On the central display the driver can select between two layout designs and four levels of information.

Display settings can also be personalised.

Digital Vision System We particularly liked the new optional feature that is the DAF Digital Vision System, replacing the main and wide-angle mirrors. The cameras further enhance direct vision, while also increasing aerodynamic performance, contributing to highest fuel efficiency.

The DAF Corner View is also another notable option to replace the kerb and front view mirrors and which exceeds the field of vision of these conventional mirrors by far.

It is another important feature to further enhance road safety, especially for vulnerable road users. The display of the DAF Corner View is mounted on the co-driver’s A-pillar, exactly where one expects it to be.

We read somewhere that the new DAF cabs were the quietest in history; it is a bold claim, and one that we can’t deny, having spent a total of around three hours across the three models. It really was a pleasant and comfortable driving experience

Storage & Living Space Drivers spend a lot of time in the cab, a fact never lost on DAF, so it is not surprising that the New Generation DAF provides huge storage space - in the roof consoles, on top of the dashboard, in the door pockets and under the bunk. Under-bunk storage space includes up to 2 large drawers (70litres each), which can also

be equipped with one or two refrigerators in which 1.5 litre bottles can stand upright. The fridges include a unique integrated double bottle holder in which drinks are chilled indirectly.

In addition, the New XF, XG and XG+ offer plenty of room for paperwork, documents and other items. The dashboard has two holders for cups, mugs and small bottles and obviously there is also DAF’s world-famous retractable dashboard table for eating or working, now even larger than before.

The cabs themselves are truly spacious, providing an excellent working and resting environment for the driver. The New Generation XF, for example, offers a standing height of between 1,900 and 2,075 mm, depending on the position within the cab, while the DAF XG cab interior offers a standing height from no less than 1,980 to 2,105 mm and - thanks to the elongation at the rear - an enormous interior space, and as we discovered during our Spanish trip, the new XG+ outperforms every truck on the market in that regard, with a standing height of up to an impressive 2,220 mm.

Attractive & Modern As good as they look on the inside, all three models feature a beautiful, distinctive exterior design, characterised by an attractive tapered cab shape with seamlessly fitting body panels and sleekly mounted windscreen and doors for outstanding aerodynamic efficiency.

They also feature a stylish grille with chrome accents. It is topped with a distinctive logo bar

with a glossy inlay to accentuate the vehicles’ class. The air intake is neatly integrated in the front, adding to the sturdy yet elegant design which is further enhanced by the prominent grille, accentuating the elongated front.

A key design feature are the stylish full LED headlights, crowned with characteristic Daytime Running Lights and integrated cornering lights, creating a stalwart signature and providing, we are told, unprecedented vision at night.

Powertrains & Safety Features The New Generation DAF XF, XG and XG+ are equipped with new powertrains, featuring new engine and transmission technologies and rear axle innovations.

They are also equipped with a TraXon automated gearbox as standard, featuring new technologies like automatic drive-off gear selection, enhanced predictive features and (optional) urge-to-move, while enhanced driver assistance systems such as Predictive Cruise Control with extended EcoRoll functionalities and Preview Downhill Speed Control contribution to significant fuel efficiency, said to be the largest such improvement in the history of the company.

On the XF, XG and XG+ a full range of active safety devices is offered. These include Brake Assist, Lane Departure Warning System and Emergency Brake Lights. The latest version of Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS-3) can provide up to full autonomous emergency braking to assist with collision avoidance of both stationary and moving vehicles from a speed of up to 80 km/h. City Turn Assist system detects other road users or objects at the co-driver side.

Other optional systems include the new DAF Electronic Park Brake, engaging the brakes automatically when the engine is switched off.

Low Speed Trailer Brake activates the trailer brakes independently for safe trailer coupling and decoupling. Park Brake Assist engages all brakes along with the park brake to ensure that the truck does not move during loading or unloading with a crane, or whilst operating a tipping body.

These new models are exactly what drivers want and need; in our opinion, they will go a long way to attract new much needed ‘blood’ into an industry that is suffering from chronic driver shortages every which way you look!

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ALL-NEW VOLVO TRUCK RANGE FEATURE AT DENNISON COMMERCIALS RIDE & DRIVE DAYS It may not have been the best of weather, but that didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of customers who had the opportunity to test out the all-new Volvo Truck range at Dennison Commercials in Ballyclare.

In between some heavy downpours, operators were able to climb behind the wheel of what is an impressive line-up of trucks from the FH, FM & FMX ranges including Volvo’s new Flagship, the FH16 750 which caught everyone’s attention!

Dennison’s tell us they had a fantastic couple of days chatting with customers about the innovative features and benefits of the new Volvo range – from the FH 460 with I-Save and the FMX 8x4 rigid to the FM 460 6x2 and FM 8x4.

With up to 750 hp and massive torque available on your command, the powerful yet agile Volvo

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FH16 takes everything in its stride, fully loaded or not. The Volvo FH16 efficient powertrains will help you get as much out of your fuel as possible and thanks to the I-Shift transmission, all gear changes are perfectly timed – automatically.

As for the Volvo FM, with six cab sizes, two, three or four axles, extra low to high chassis and a wide range of powertrain options, it can be configured to meet a customer’s exact needs, combining excellent levels of comfort and convenience. Around urban areas, over long distances, picking up containers in ports, navigating construction sites, and everything

in between, the Volvo FM is up to any task.

Also there on the day was a Volvo FMX, Volvo Trucks’ most robust construction truck to date, making the toughest construction applications easier and safer – whether there’s a road or not. Again, it can be tailored to your needs and the conditions it will be up against.

Dennison Commercials provided all guests with a welcome pack which included a mask and hand sanitizer to ensure everyone was able to adhere to Covid-19 guidelines – and, of course, there was plenty of much appreciated refreshments on hand!

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Terry Maxwell and Chris Arthur.

Colin Surplus and son.

WITH UP TO 750 HP AND MASSIVE TORQUE AVAILABLE ON YOUR COMMAND, THE POWERFUL YET AGILE VOLVO FH16 TAKES EVERYTHING IN ITS STRIDE, FULLY LOADED OR NOT.

Darren McKinstry, Chris Arthur, Mark McKinstry and John Jenkins.

James Dennison and Conan Hughes.

John Adams and Chris Arthur.

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First 1,000 New Generation DAF trucks sold DAF has already received over 1,000 customer orders for its New Generation XF, XG and XG+ trucks. The completely new range of vehicles for long distance transport will enter production in October and set a new standard in efficiency, safety and driver comfort.

The New Generation XF, XG and XG+ are the first trucks on the market to fully benefit from the New European Masses & Dimensions regulations. These allow truck cabs to be longer to achieve next levels of efficiency, safety and driver comfort.

Features like optimal radii, a tapered cab design, a curved windscreen and a 16 cm elongation at the front, have resulted in industry-leading aerodynamics. This contributes to an impressive improvement in fuel efficiency of up to 10%, with similar reductions in CO2.

Unparalleled safety is achieved through extremely low window belt lines and a kerb view window for outstanding direct view, as well as features like the new DAF Digital Vision System and the DAF Corner View. cinema

seat, a superb, fully digital instrument panel, a Relax Bed and ambient interior lighting, not to mention the unprecedented amount of interior space (12.5 m3 for the XG+), all combine to deliver unrivalled driver comfort.

In addition, the New Generation DAF represents an entirely new platform, ready for alternative battery-electric and hydrogen drivelines which are currently under development at DAF. “Never before in our more than 90-year history has the milestone of over 1,000 customer orders been reached so rapidly after the official launch,” according to Richard Zink, member of the DAF Board of Management and responsible for Marketing & Sales. “What makes this milestone even

more special, is that the New Generation DAF will only enter production in October and so far most of the customers haven’t been able to see our magnificent trucks in real life yet. It shows that we have started the future by launching a series of revolutionary trucks that are genuinely game-changing in terms of efficiency, safety and driver comfort.”

Renault Truck Commercials Opens Doors to Network’s First Parts Recycling Centre Renault Truck Commercials has opened the network’s first dedicated parts recycling centre, and launched a new parts website, which together strengthen the dealer group’s total parts offer to its customers. correctly recycled right down to the copper from our wiring looms.”

Located at the group’s Renault Trucks South dealership in Reading, the new recycling centre is a fully Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) specialising in Renault Trucks Genuine second life parts.

A full listing of quality recycled parts are available to purchase at the dedicated sales website recycled.renaulttruckcommercials. co.uk with same day dispatch available for orders before 4pm week days, however if there are any requirements outside the parts listed on the website, the centre welcomes all enquiries.

The facility, which will carefully select end-of-life Renault trucks to meet sales demand, is perfectly positioned to meet the growing demand for high quality, competitively priced recycled genuine parts.

Con Rooney, Managing Director, Renault Truck Commercials, says: “As all sectors of the market and supply chain have been affected by the challenges of the global pandemic, this investment is further evidence of our long-term commitment to supporting customers with more affordable, quality options that are a commercial and environmental ‘win-win’.”

For Steve Astill, Group Parts Manager at Renault Truck Commercials, the assurance that every vehicle is certified through the

New parts website

Steve Astill, Group Parts Manager at Renault Truck Commercials.

manufacturer’s fleet file for total transparency is key: “We know the service history of every part on every Renault truck that comes through the facility, which gives customers real peace of mind. Additionally, all major recycled components come with a warranty. Our qualified technicians work to exacting manufacture standards to remove the parts, which are cleaned,

prepared and stored ready for sale.”

The new facility is designed to ensure the highest standards in health and safety, and to the environment. Steve Astill adds: “We try to sell as much as possible from the vehicles we process, however anything we can’t sell is disposed of through our waste conscious streams,

Renault Truck Commercials has also launched a new parts website; fully optimised for mobile, the website parts.renaulttruckcommercials. co.uk has been designed around the customer to select and purchase the right part seamlessly.

Key features include a unique VIN number search option ensures the customer shops the correct parts for their vehicle. For further clarification, the ‘Fit on my truck?’ button for each listing allows customers to ask a question which will be answered directly by Renault Truck Commercial’s sales team.

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IVECO launches projects to promote the benefits of natural gas IVECO has launched the IVECO Ambassador programme to give a voice to customers, enthusiasts and partners who share the brand’s values on different themes, and recognise their actions in these areas.

As a pioneer and European market leader in natural gas technology, IVECO has started the programme with the Sustainability theme, aiming to raise the profile of natural gas and highlight the brand’s commitment to the environment.

The first IVECO Ambassadors have been selected for being transporters who share the brand’s belief in natural gas and contribute to protecting the environment by running IVECO LNG and bioLNG vehicles in their fleet.

Through this project, IVECO aims to give them a voice, as they tell the story of their experience with natural gas and the benefits for their operation. The project is up and running in the markets where natural gas is most widely available, such as Italy, France and the UK. In parallel, IVECO has launched the Plant the Future project as part of its commitment to carbon

reduction. It has partnered with reforestation organisations to plant an IVECO international forest, made up of tree planting projects in different countries.

In Germany, IVECO will plant a tree for every NEW IVECO S-WAY natural gas and used IVECO Stralis NP sold via the PLANT-MY-TREE reforestation project created to off-set carbon emissions. It aims to plant at least 1,000 trees to compensate for over 1,237 tonnes of CO2 over the next 99 years.

In Italy, IVECO has partnered with e-commerce platform Treedom, which will plant 300 trees – 30 in Italy and the rest in other parts of the world. A number of these trees will be dedicated to the country’s IVECO Ambassadors, who will receive a code that will enable them to choose their tree and where to plant it.

In Poland the brand has partnered

with Ecobal, an organisation dedicated to forest protection, which will plant 5,000 tree seedlings on a 5-ha site to increase the biodiversity of the area and support compensation of the CO2 emission.

Giandomenico Fioretti, IVECO Head of Alternative Propulsion, commented: “At IVECO, we believe that natural gas has a key role to play on the path to zero-carbon transport. In long-haulage, this alternative propulsion technology is the mature solution available today to reduce the environmental impact of the transport sector. This positive impact can be even stronger with biomethane. Today, biomethane accounts for 17% of natural gas used in transport. Its use is set to grow significantly in the coming years, as new fuelling stations come on stream and its benefits become better known. With initiatives such as the IVECO Ambassador

programme we want to increase awareness of the advantages of biomethane for transporters.”

IVECO has pioneered natural gas technology for more than 20 years, spearheading the transition to this sustainable fuel in transport. With more than 45,000 natural gas vehicles sold, it is the European market leader and the first manufacturer to offer a natural gas-powered heavy-duty truck specifically designed for international longhaul missions. The IVECO S-WAY has exceptional autonomy of up to 1,600 km in the LNG version and provides a truly green and profitable solution with best-inclass Total Cost of Ownership.

The natural gas distribution network is developing fast, keeping pace with the growth in sales of natural gas-powered vehicles. It currently counts 4,021 refuelling stations according to the NGVA (Natural & bio Gas Vehicle Association).

This network can also be used to distribute biomethane, so that a dedicated infrastructure is not necessary to transition to bioLNG. Currently it is supplied as a blend or under customers’ order.

However, production volumes of biomethane are growing and this sustainable fuel is becoming increasingly available.

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Failed to Take Daily Rest A County Antrim operator was convicted at Antrim Magistrates’ Court and fined a total of £2,750 after DVA Enforcement Officers stopped a DAF 3 + 3 axle articulated goods vehicle in the Larne area.

Analysis of the tachograph identified a number of tachograph offences including the driver failing to take the required daily rest and driving on four occasions without the appropriate digital driver’s card inserted.

Fraudulent Use of Tacho Cards A County Tyrone driver has been convicted at Ballymena Magistrates’ Court and fined a total of £750.

The conviction arose when DVA Enforcement Officers stopped and examined a Volvo 3 axle rigid goods vehicle drawing a 3 axle trailer.

An initial analysis of the vehicle’s tachograph indicated that there had been two driver cards fraudulently used by the same driver in order to disguise the fact that statutory breaks had not been taken.

In addition the driver was unable to produce his Certificate of Professional Competence licence.

£1,000 fine on Tachograph Charges A County Fermanagh operator has been fined a total of £1000 at Laganside Magistrates’ Court in Belfast.

The conviction arose when DVA Enforcement Officers stopped a Mercedes3 + 3 axle articulated goods vehicle and asked the driver to produce his digital tachograph records for the purposes of an examination.

Analysis of the vehicle’s tachograph and driver’s digital card revealed that he had been driving on six separate dates without a digital tachograph card inserted.

Fermanagh Operator Lands Big Fine at Ballymena Court A County Fermanagh Operator has been convicted at Ballymena Magistrates’ Court and fined a total of £3,200.

The conviction arose when DVA Enforcement Officers requested tachograph data from a company in relation to nine vehicles in their possession.

A detailed analysis of the data revealed a number of EU drivers hours infringement including a failure to download driver’s cards, driving without a card inserted and failure to produce record sheets.

Card Not Inserted for 25 Days A County Antrim driver was convicted at Ballymena Magistrates’ Court and fined a total of £300.

The conviction arose when DVA Enforcement Officers stopped a Volvo 3 axle articulated goods vehicle.

Analysis of the driver’s digital card and tachograph revealed the vehicle had been driven without a card inserted in the recording equipment over 25 days.

No Daily Read Leads to Court A County Antrim Driver was convicted at Ballymena Magistrates’ Court and fined a total of £600.

The conviction arose when DVA Enforcement Officers stopped a Volvo3 + 3 axle articulated goods vehicle.

Analysis of the driver’s digital tachograph card revealed that he had failed to take the required daily rest.

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Traffic Commissioners to headline Logistics UK’s Transport Manager 2021 Traffic Commissioners will be updating industry with their latest guidance as industry regulators when they headline Logistics UK’s Transport Manager series for 2021.

A Traffic Commissioner will be present at each of the event locations, with the exception of Belfast, where there will be David Mullan, the Head of the Northern Ireland Transport Regulation Unit.

The Traffic Commissioners will share invaluable information for transport managers who, despite the disruption and challenges faced as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, remain legally required to keep their professional knowledge up to date and ensure their operations remain compliant.

Senior Traffic Commissioner, Richard Turfitt, comments: “The logistics industry has been vital to GB during the pandemic and its ability to operate safely and effectively will be just as important to the national recovery. To meet the challenges in a changing industry, it is crucial that transport managers are equipped with the latest information on how to maintain compliance standards and to deliver effective and continuous management of their transport operations. The involvement of the traffic commissioners at Logistics UK’s Transport Manager shows the importance, which the regulators place on professional development and that they value the opportunity to engage with the transport managers, who perform such an important role.”

James Firth, Head of Road Freight Regulation Policy at Logistics UK, said: “We are thrilled to have the involvement of the traffic commissioners at Logistics UK’s Transport Manager series once again. We are grateful to Richard and his team for their continued support for the conference series. Their participation is hugely valuable for our attendees and their involvement in the series will give delegates a great opportunity to ask pressing questions on matters which could affect their fleets’ future compliance and ensure that their operations remain road-ready for the coming year.”

Transport Manager, sponsored by Bridgestone Tyres, will be touring across the UK from September to December 2021. Topics to be covered by the event’s knowledgeable speakers will include logistics in urban centres, low emission vehicles, working safely with alternative fuels, a compliance update and much more. The series is also sponsored by Brigade Electronics.

The price for Logistics UK members is £295 plus VAT for the first delegate and £265 plus VAT for subsequent delegates; for nonLogistics UK members the cost is £395 plus VAT for the first delegate and £365 plus VAT for subsequent delegates. This price includes access to all the exclusive conference sessions and a full package of refreshments throughout the day. For more information, or to book your place, please visit: www.logistics.org.uk/transport-manager

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FROM THE OFFICE OF

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Seamus Leheny Policy Manager - Northern Ireland. Logistics UK

THE HGV DRIVER SHORTAGE HITS CRISIS POINT The HGV driver shortage is still making headlines across the UK, with supply chains under extreme pressure of a UK-wide short fall of 90,000 of these critical workers. With HGV drivers at the heart of Northern Ireland’s supply chains – their work helps to ensure the nation and its supermarkets, schools and hospitals are stocked with all the necessary essentials – it is vital that this issue is resolved quickly.

In this month’s column, I will provide an overview of the causes, the proposed solutions as well as an update on Logistics UK’s campaign work to guide government towards a resolution.

While there was a shortage of HGV drivers prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and Brexit, these two events have exacerbated the situation, leading to the crisis we see today. The pandemic halted driver training and testing for more than 12 months, leading to a backlog of more than 26,000 positive tests, while an estimated 14,000 EU drivers returned home during the pandemic and following the end of the transition period.

Longer-term contributory factors include the poor facilities available to drivers while on the road, including a lack of sufficient overnight parking spaces, which continues to be a huge impediment to attracting more people to join the industry.

The logistics industry is committed to employing domestic drivers to overcome the current shortage. But while these drivers are trained and qualify into the workforce, which can take up to nine months, and DVSA works through its backlog of outstanding HGV driver tests – which we estimate could take until early 2022 – temporary visas made available for European workers would help to overcome the current supply chain problems experienced across the UK. The industry needs drivers now, and we are urging the government to replicate its temporary visa scheme, introduced for agricultural workers and already in place for seven industries, for logistics to keep trucks and vans moving in the short term. While the government has rejected this call, we will continue to press

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upon the authorities that this is the only solution available to deal with the immediate, short-term crisis, while new domestic HGV drivers enter the workforce train and qualify, a process which can take up to nine months.

Funded Training Logistics UK is also urging the government to review longer-term measures, such as implementing funded training to open the industry up to as many people as possible and counteracting the long-term recruitment issues which logistics has faced for many years, such as poor welfare facilities.

Three years ago, the government pledged to increase the availability of secure, safe parking spaces for lorry drivers, but has not delivered on its promise.

Rest facilities across the UK’s road network lag far behind those available on the continent, and it is imperative that the welfare of drivers is prioritised to encourage new recruits to enter the industry. Logistics UK would also like to see more government support, in the form of interest-free loans or grants to aid those looking to retrain into this vital role, similar to the university loans scheme.

More Incentives Businesses within the logistics industry are already playing their part to attract workers, with many increasing pay rates, offering bonuses, and implementing

internal training schemes. Logistics UK itself is working closely with The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Job Centre Plus network to link individuals to roles in logistics, and also supports Think Logistics’ campaign to attract young people into the profession. The business group is coordinating a weekend of activity nationwide, called “Discover Logistics Careers,” from 28 November to 1 December, during which member businesses are being encouraged to open up their premises to potential employees to educate them about the work of the sector, provide work experience opportunities and advertise current job vacancies. To find out more about how to get involved, please visit logistics.org.uk/discover-logistics-careers

Local Efforts Locally here in Northern Ireland, Logistics UK is working with local government on a proposed new all age apprenticeship that could potentially be fully funded and available to those wishing to become HGV drivers.

If successful, this new apprenticeship could be ready for delivery by the end of 2021.

The logistics industry is committed to protecting Northern Ireland’s supply chains, but it needs the right government support to do so. Logistics UK will continue to press government for decisive action on the HGV driver shortage to tackle both the long- and short-term causes that have led to the crisis we see today.

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Brigade Electronics launches ZoneSafe proximity warning system Brigade Electronics has added ZoneSafe, a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) proximity warning system, to its range of vehicle safety systems.

ZoneSafe works by using RFID technology to create detection zones around vehicles, reducing the risk of injury or damage from collisions and near miss occurrences to people and property.

Designed for use in challenging environments, such as warehouses, construction sites, manufacturing sites, waste sites, airports and distribution centres, ZoneSafe uses vehicle-mounted antennas that

communicate with detection tags, which can be worn by workers, set up in restricted areas or placed on objects or property. When a tag enters a detection zone, the vehicle operator will automatically receive a visual and audible alert via the in-cab control unit, which will enable them to take the necessary action. Tags worn by workers on foot will also vibrate to warn of an approaching vehicle.

Due to the RFID technology, which does not require line-of-sight, tags will be detected regardless of obstructions, blind spots, adverse weather conditions or poor visibility.

Each tag can be uniquely identified and linked to individual people.

Emily Hardy, from Brigade Electronics, said: “Approximately 70% of incidents on sites happen during initial machine startup and low speed movement

BPW wins the coveted ETM Award for the 15th time in a row Barely any other trailer component has as much impact on the added value per kilometre as the running gear, which is why BPW Bergische Achsen KG has now won the ETM Award for the 15th year in a row.

The award is one of the most sought after in the industry and gives transport professionals from the vehicle and logistics industry the chance to have their say.

Claiming the top spot has become an annual tradition for the company, as no other provider offers more-advanced technology.

“In the transport and logistics industry, everything revolves around the question of which technology can be used to generate more added value per kilometre. Choosing the right axle and running gear systems is crucial here,” comments Ralf Merkelbach, Head of Key Account Management Large Fleets Europe at BPW, “which is why at BPW we invest in innovative

technologies more than any other provider and work closely with hauliers in our development work. The result is the most advanced running gear technology on the market, which gives vehicle operators a decisive advantage.”

BPW actually uses more than steel and aluminium when constructing axles and running gear – it also uses data. The global player and family-owned company based in Wiehl, North Rhine-Westphalia, has fitted selected trailers with specially developed data collection devices (Mini Black Box) that accurately record every movement. Whether a trailer is speeding over the potholes of the Silk Road in China, climbing the road to a mountain pass in Eastern Anatolia,

driving through the monsoon in India or being subjected to hard braking at a motorway junction in Germany, every physical detail is registered and used to fine-tune the running gear components for maximum sturdiness and efficiency.

The result is a modular component kit where every individual part is based on a ‘digital twin’ and can even be put together online to create running gear that is precisely tailored to the intended use. The artificial intelligence in the configurator helps the vehicle engineer to choose precisely the right combination.

This year, BPW completely rebuilt the successful Airlight II running gear, which is among the top-selling trailer running gear in Europe.

This achieved a weight saving of 60 kg for the vehicle operator – and gives the vehicle manufacturer even more flexibility in the design.

Ralf Merkelbach says: “The new version of Airlight II proves that we do not rest on our laurels at BPW. By digitising our running gear kit, we have replaced the conventional development cycles with a continuous renewal process. This means that every BPW running gear is always the most up to date and efficient on the market.”

FORS breaks its personal best with record Gold and Silver members It’s not just Team GB that has been racking up the golds and silvers this summer. FORS has reported that it has reached record numbers of FORS Gold and FORS Silver-accredited members.

As of 19 August 2021, the total number of Gold-accredited members reached a new high of 321, while the number of Silver members stands at a record 1,650. FORS Silver and Gold are the highest levels of accreditation available to members, requiring operators to meet more exacting standards and hold themselves to a higher level of accountability than at Bronze level.

The recent increase in the number of operators opting to progress to higher levels of FORS accreditation is testament to the value of FORS

Silver and Gold and the benefits that operators of all shapes and sizes can enjoy, particularly in relation to efficiency, cost reduction and winning new contracts.

Data from the FORS 2019 Performance Survey revealed that, for Bronze operators, on average 26% of contracts require FORS. For Silver and Gold operators, however, the percentages rise to 38% and 51% respectively. Overall, 38% of FORS members reported winning work over competitors as a direct benefit of FORS.

because of poor visibility. This makes ZoneSafe ideal for vehicles and mobile plant that frequently operate within close proximity to workers and other machines, particularly in difficult conditions.

It provides fast, reliable and accurate data exchange without any limitation on the number of tags or antennas in operation.”

When it comes to cost and efficiency savings, the case for FORS membership is just as compelling. 24% of FORS members reported saving on their insurance premium, at an average saving of 8.2%, while the average yearon-year change in MPG for Gold members equates to a whopping 12%. Gold members also demonstrated improved fleet safety, reducing the number of annual incidents by 31% on average.

John Hix, FORS Director, said, “We are delighted to see our membership levels continuing to rise

at Silver and Gold level. Our data and member feedback consistently demonstrate the benefits of FORS and its growing importance in the tendering process. We are always evaluating our offering to ensure that members get the very most out of FORS, no matter the size or make-up of their fleet”.

FORS members work through the progressive levels of the scheme and adhere to the FORS Standard, which sets out the requirements operators must meet if they wish to become FORS accredited. The document is updated every two years to ensure it keeps abreast of industry trends and upcoming legislative changes.

The latest iteration of the FORS Standard, version 6, is due to be published in October 2021 and implemented in July 2022, having being postponed by one year to minimise disruption to FORS members in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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FROM THE OFFICE OF

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John Martin RHA Policy Manager for Northern Ireland.

GOVERNMENT PLANS TO DECARBONISE HGV’S BY 2050 NEED TO BE RE-EXAMINED In November 2020, the UK Government announced as part of its Net Zero agenda the Ten Point Plan for a Green Industrial Revolution which brought forward to 2030 the date when the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans will end.

To further its decarbonisation aims, the Government additionally launched in July 2021 its Transport Decarbonisation Plan together with two consultations on ending the sale of new non-zero emission HGVs, and a CO2 emissions regulatory framework for all newly sold road vehicles in the UK. A third consultation on ending the sale of new non-zero emission buses is planned for later in 2021.

Ministers see the consultation on when to phase out the sale of new, non-zero emission heavy goods vehicles as part of a programme of work which ‘will put the transport sector on an ambitious but credible pathway to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.’

The proposed phase-out dates for the sale of new non-zero emission HGVs in this consultation reflect what is needed for the UK’s HGV fleet to deliver its contribution to net zero by 2050. Zero emission vehicles (those without emissions at the tailpipe) offer

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an opportunity to create jobs, strengthen British industry, cut emissions and keep Britain moving.

Whilst the RHA supports the aim to decarbonise HGVs, we do not believe current Government’s plans are attainable and, having taken account of the views of many logistics operators, have put forward alternative proposals.

Reservations Last month’s publication of the Sixth Assessment Report by the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) once again highlighted the need for all of us to act quickly to address the challenges posed by climate change. As we collectively consider our responses, the question the RHA has put at the centre of its thinking is not “what” nor “why”, but “how”.

We support the aim to decarbonise heavy goods vehicles. However, based on current Government plans, we have reservations on its attainability and believe the

plans should be adjusted. The ramifications for the economy arising from the apparently simple question posed by the consultation of “when” are highly complex, and we note the impacts have yet to be scoped by ministers via an Impact Assessment. We also point out that HGVs account for 4.3% of overall UK greenhouse gas emissions,3 and so we look for a proportionate and coherent policy response that empowers operators to play their full part.

That said, we understand the imperative to act and our response intends to help the Government and our sector work through the issues to determine “how” CO2 emissions from the HGV fleet can be reduced sustainably.

From this starting point, we give qualified support to the Government’s proposal to split out the banning dates for “new nonzero emission HGVs” into different weight categories. As a first step, this is a sensible and pragmatic

approach to take. However, we do not agree that setting the weight threshold at 26 tonnes and below from 2035 is the right way forward, as it does not adequately address the barriers-to-entry that currently impede the adoption of zero tailpipe emission HGVs. Instead, from our assessment of the emerging technologies and initial estimate of implementation timelines, we believe the timetable for stopping the sale of new diesel HGVs should be determined by the following weight categories and dates: a. from 2035, 18 tonnes and below b. from 2040, 32 tonnes and below c. from 2045, over 32 tonnes Our assessment however comes with a significant “health warning” as it assumes the satisfactory resolution of future cost, operational and supply barriers, both known and unknown, to meet all use-cases. These dates could be brought forward if appropriate solutions to meet all types of service are provided. However, some specialist or remote area operations may need to be exempted from the ban. Our assessment should

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John Martin RHA Policy Manager for Northern Ireland.

be seen as a guide to stimulate continued dialogue and planning with Ministers and officials.

We comment that, whilst we share the ambition to decarbonise at pace and strongly support technological developments to deliver it, sustainable implementation is not yet apparent. Splitting out the banning dates is heavily dependent on whether the new alternative technology can be applied successfully in all use cases in the weight categories.

The operational capabilities and limitations of the emerging technologies are not yet fully understood, and government policy must cater for these technical risks.

We make two further starting observations. First, there is a substantial gap in the analysis presented in the consultation document. Nowhere does it outline the Government’s intentions

regarding the diesel fleet that is put on the road before any phase-out bans apply. If ministers intend to ban the use of any part of the diesel HGV fleet before or after 2035, they should say so. It can be interpreted from the consultation document that the Government intends to ban all diesel or fossil-fuelled HGVs from operation from 2050, but the Government has not said so.

We believe that all HGVs should be given a minimum guaranteed operating life of at least 15 years before facing bans, penalties, or supplementary charges.

Secondly, there is a bias in the consultation document towards electric drivetrain solutions4 which excludes plausible and pioneering alternative technology options, such as hydrogen combustion and net zero fuels. This should change so that all technology options that allow Net Zero targets to

be achieved are within scope.

Core Messages With this in mind, we have three core messages for ministers: • for net zero to succeed, all types of operation and HGV use must be accommodated so that all parts of the economy and all types of supply chain are catered for; • considerable market uncertainty exists with operators currently having insufficient information available to make informed choices. This must be managed in an agile way, with ministers regarding this consultation as the first in a series of conversations with our sector to navigate flexibly the many issues that lie ahead. We particularly flag that ministers must give clear guidance on how unavoidable emissions are offset;

• the whole vehicle lifecycle must be central to decision making so that all owners of any vehicle bought before the new vehicle bans are introduced are able to benefit from its utility and a full known economic lifespan. Central to this is sustaining asset values so that all businesses, including our vital SME sector, have the standard financial tools intrinsic to any business available to manage natural vehicle replacement cycles.

To assist the certainty our sector needs to plan their vehicle fleet replacement programmes, we have sent a policy proposal for ministers to consider which, if implemented, sustains asset values so that a sustainable transition to Net Zero is achieved. We also set out in our response a further six recommendations to shape the development of the supporting policy framework that achieves Net Zero targets.

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NEWS

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SDC MARKS 10,000th TRAILER MILESTONE AT NEW PRODUCTION FACILITY SDC Trailers, the UK and Ireland’s leading semi-trailer producer, recently marked a manufacturing milestone when its 10,000th trailer came off their new production line in Toomebridge, three years after the facility became operational.

The semi-automated line was commissioned in August 2018 as part of a £7 million expansion to SDC’s existing Northern Ireland base, which would meet additional demand for their robust and reliable trailer range.

The milestone Boxvan trailer was produced for hire and leasing specialist TIP Trailers Services and is one of over 150,000 manufactured by SDC since the company was established in 1978.

Continued investment has allowed SDC to meet the demand for locally produced trailers at their four production sites in Toomebridge, Antrim and Mansfield. Their 600,000sq ft facilities incorporate some of Europe’s most advanced trailer production methods, supporting a range of sizes, specific product variances, and the scalability to handle higher production volumes when required.

SDC’s Group President Paul Bratton said: “I am proud to be able to announce that we have reached such a fantastic milestone three

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years after this facility was opened. While technology, innovation and investment have helped us to meet customer demand, it is our loyal, long-serving staff members who have truly shaped the company’s success and the proven reliability of our trailers.

“I would like to thank every member of our team who worked to achieve this 10,000th trailer milestone, they do an incredible job ensuring every trailer engineered is designed and finished to our exacting quality standards.”

Commitment SDC’s Toomebridge Production Manager, Eoin McErlean, who has been with the company for 35 years, added: “This milestone is testament to SDC’s commitment to producing the leading trailer solutions in the industry and it could not have happened without our production, engineering and R&D teams who have served the leading haulage and logistics providers over the last 43 years.

“At SDC we are committed to developing trailer solutions that further advance safety and operational efficiency, and lean manufacturing is central to this. The new facility in Toomebridge has allowed us to enhance the efficiency of our processes and remain competitive, delivering quality products to customers with minimum lead time.”

Building on four generations of trailer building expertise, SDC delivers customer-centred engineering and industry-first solutions. Over their long manufacturing history, the company has developed a solution for almost every transport application spanning from Curtainsiders and Boxvans, to Platform, Skeletal, Machine Carrier and Drawbar trailers, with a variety of options available to meet the customer’s needs.

While SDC is renowned for its leading trailer portfolio, the company places significant emphasis on lifecycle customer support through their dedicated after-sales teams who provide spare parts, fleet graphics, breakdown assistance, trailer repair, refurbishment, modification, and second-hand sales.

The manufacturer has seen a sharp increase in demand throughout 2021, with one new SDC trailer going into production every 16 minutes.

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TRANS-BRIDGE FREIGHT SERVICES:

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE AFTER SUCCESSFULLY COPING WITH THE CHALLENGES OF THE PAST Like many transport operators, Trans-Bridge Freight Services has had to weather the storm of the past 18 months, with both Brexit and the Covid-19 global pandemic disrupting everyday life, but the company, with depots in Antrim, Dublin and Manchester, is looking to the future with confidence, and with good reason.

As Export & Freight’s David Stokes has been finding out from the company’s Managing Director Brian Anderton, it has plans in place to extend its facilities in Antrim and to add to its already impressive fleet of temperaturecontrolled trucks and trailers to meet increasing customer demand.

For the past 30 years, TransBridge Freight has operated an Overnight Groupage service from its consolidation depot in Manchester across to Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic. “Service has always been the key characteristic of our notoriety with customers and our peers,” says Brian. “We service a wide range of business sectors and have built an impressive portfolio of valued customers.”

2020 effectively pacing the country in full lock down, we had to quickly configure our contingencies, both in Manchester and Antrim.

Apart from the obvious components of acquiring PPE and sanitisation equipment (a challenge in itself) we identified the colleagues that we could reposition away from the office whilst still contributing to the operation of the business.

The team members that couldn’t work from home from a practical

The acquisition of its flag ship depot in Antrim in 2015 boosted not only the company’s profile in Northern Ireland but also its capacity to expand into specialist markets, particularly the temperature-controlled healthcare and pharmaceutical sector.

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Fortunately, our broad spread of commercial markets, meant that we didn’t experience a complete shut down of traffic flow through our network. Whilst we saw a steep downturn in the few months in the construction, manufacturing and retail sectors, our pharmaceutical and healthcare clients had never been busier.

Ultimately, the people of Northern Ireland required a continuous flow of healthcare products, medicines, and critical care supplies and Trans-Bridge never missed a beat throughout the darkest times of the pandemic. I am very proud of our team on both sides of the Irish Sea for their unwavering commitment throughout.

In terms of the health of employees and service providers, apart from sporadic individual cases of Covid-19, we consider ourselves extremely blessed that we didn’t suffer any serious cases or worse.

Self- Isolation was probably the hardest and most unpredictable component of the fight against the disease, but again the team have pulled together, and we have come through the other side.

I agree with our medical experts in high places in as much that Covid-19 will most likely be a disease that we must learn to live with and manage, as we do with Influenza. Hopefully Trans-Bridge will continue to play a crucial role in delivering the preventative medicines to keep the people of Northern Ireland safe and well.

We began our interview with Brian by first asking, how did the Covid -19 Pandemic impact on your business and what did you in terms of contingency?

I guess like most businesses and individuals we didn’t envisage the enormity of the situation until it was right upon us. When Boris made the TV address on the 23rd of March

perspective were given sufficient space to social distance and follow the guidelines to protect each other.

How has Brexit and the Northern Ireland Protocol changed how your business operates?

Managing Director Brian Anderton.

If there was ever a definition of “The Perfect Storm” the UK’s relentless drive to exit from the EU during a global pandemic,

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must be right up there.

We had obviously been preparing for Brexit for most of 2020, however, as I am sure the common census on both sides of the Brexit debate would agree, the uncertainty and continual postponements and expired deadlines, made any realistic preparation impossible.

The supply chain model changes from GB to ROI were clearly cut, in as much that there would be Customs Formalities on entry into ROI and visa versa irrespective of whether a Trade Deal was reached or not.

We worked intensively with our customers to prepare them for what would be required in terms of commercial data for Customs. It was very quickly apparent that the businesses and organisations in GB that historically didn’t trade outside of the EU had no or little idea of what was to come. Terminology such as Inco Terms, Commodity Codes, EORI

numbers Country of Origin were completely alien to a lot of customers, particularly for those fortunate enough to be too young to remember how difficult it was pre the Common Market.

We supported all our clients through the latter part of 2020, even those who came very late to the party, and with the support of Customs Clearance partner EORI UK created a variety of platforms that customers could supply electronically, the necessary data to us, quickly and easily, to enable us to create Export and Import formalities.

The Northern Ireland Protocol impact didn’t really hit home with us until we started to see the format of the Trader Support Scheme portal late in Q4 2020.

Our first challenge was to encourage all of consignors and consignees that move freight between GB and Northern Ireland to register with the TSS and obtain their XI EORI number.

Once again, the importance of Inco Terms came to the fore, which for what is essentially an internal UK transaction caused

unimaginable confusion. Very quickly the realisation, on both sides of the Irish Sea, that the “Importer of Record” would ultimately be responsible for a Customs Declaration at a point in time after the delivery was complete, made Inco Terms a real hot potato.

We invested heavily in IT once again to make the process for NI Export Data to be communicated very quickly and easily and worked closely with Fujitsu at the TSS to integrate into their Portal. The outcome has been very positive and has made the movement of consignments through our GB / NI network very smooth. We are now also offering a service to our clients to complete the final stage of the TSS process which is the Supplementary Declaration.

The big cloud on the horizon is the future of the Protocol and how that will affect trade between GB and Northern Ireland. In its current form N. Ireland’s requirement to align with EU Regulatory framework will impact massively on the supply from GB of food stuffs, medicines, industrial products that require EU Certification and many other areas

of day-to-day products. Hopefully common sense will prevail, and a sensible outcome will be achieved to satisfy all parties, but most importantly to protect the way of life of all Northern Ireland’s people.

How does the future look for Trans-Bridge Freight Services Ltd? We have always been very positive about, and receptive to, change and Brexit is no different. Yes, it has placed obstacles in our path, but we have been pro-active in engaging with Politicians and N.I Protocol architects to try and play an active role in how those challenges are overcome.

We see Northern Ireland as probably our biggest growth market, especially in the pharmaceutical sector and we are actively investing in Temperature Controlled Vehicles and Trailers to pre-empt the requirements of our customers.

We also have plans in motion to extend our Temperature Controlled storage facilities in Antrim to meet the demands of our pharmaceutical clients, so all in all, very exciting times.

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FRIDGE TRAILERS

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MAJOR ADVANCES IN REFRIGERATED TRANSPORT Over recent years, there have been some significant technological advances in the transportation of chilled and frozen goods, pharmaceuticals and other temperature sensitive cargoes.

We have also seen the introduction of quite strict rules and regulations governing inner city and urban operations, especially in relation to reducing the level of noise emissions, which is one of the key requirements for transport operators using refrigeration units.

And then there is the even bigger issue regarding the impending withdrawal of the tax

rebate on red diesel; it comes into effect on April 1st next year.

That has led to manufacturers of refrigeration units urging operators to be prepared for the price hikes well in advance.

According to Hultsteins, the British and Swedish hydraulic refrigeration & electric hybrid systems manufacturer, operators can avoid the inevitable and very significant cost burden by

fitting an engine drive PTO, to power an on-board electrical generator which will drive their existing fridge. Alternatively, say the company, they can fit a hydraulic fridge system to any truck or drawbar system and stop using diesel altogether.

Anybody doing so, they say, will benefit from reduced fuel consumption, lower carbon output, less noise and significant reductions in NOx and

particulate emissions. Also, apart from the obvious environmental benefits, operators will be able to drive into the numerous clean air zones currently being identified by local authorities throughout this year and next.

Over the following few pages, we take a look at new innovations, technologies and other developments in this growing sector.

Thermo King Introduces Advancer Whisper Pro Thermo King has introduced its latest, ultra-quiet addition to its Advancer A-Series trailer refrigeration systems - the A-500 Whisper Pro. The new model is compliant with the most stringent noise regulations including PIEK , and allows for inner-city deliveries at any time of day and night.

Thermo King A-Series units are up to 30% more fuel-efficient and offer are up to 40 percent quicker pull down than the market average. The A-500 Whisper Pro offers the same high performance with sound level below the PIEK enforced 60 dB (A) standard.

“European cities are committed to reducing the level of noise emission to improve inner-city living conditions. It’s one of the key requirements for transporters operating in urban areas to ensure their refrigeration units meet the strict noise regulations,” said Laurent Debias, product and marketing director at Thermo King in Europe, Middle East and Africa.

“For decades, Thermo King has prioritized noise attenuation across all its product lines.

Advancer units are already one of the most silent trailer refrigeration units on the market today. With our Whisper Pro model, we went the extra mile and our offering our customers the highest cooling capacity for a trailer unit that can enter a city at night.”

The A-500 Whisper Pro is using geo-fencing to automatically switch into low-noise mode when entering a pre-defined zone.

This allows the transporters to operate unrestricted day and night schedules with the peace of mind that the unit complies with the regulations in the given area.

“Studies show that operating outside rush hour can result in 14% faster distribution routes”, said Colm O’Grady, product manager Trailer at Thermo King. “With the A-500 Whisper Pro, dispatchers can plan a more efficient night route, to avoid rush hour, traffic jams and save precious time. Our new Advancer unit offers them more flexible operations and more possibilities to deliver their freight.”

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Thermo King Advancer A-Series includes unique features that comprehensively address a wide range of operational and financial challenges, including:

engines with 50 percent less emissions than the maximum allowed by latest NRMM Stage V emission standards

• Complete transparency of fuel levels and fuel consumption. Customers can easily access the fuel consumption data of the unit - recorded, displayed, and made available remotely via telematics.

• Lower maintenance costs and enhanced serviceability compared to the predecessor, thanks to sensors offering more insight into the engine, fuel, battery and the performance of other key components

• Fully variable airflow that can be regulated for each journey and cargo, and is independent from unit engine speed

• Future-ready power agnostic capabilities that can utilize diesel, axle generator, or shore power sources with ease

• Unrivalled electrical and fuel efficiency contributing to lower CO2 footprint and

• 2 years of full telematics connectivity in the purchase price.

SO QUIET YOU CAN HEAR YOUR CUSTOMERS SMILE

E N T E R T H E C I T Y AT N I G H T Did you know that operating outside rush hour results in 14% faster distribution routes?

With A-500 Whisper Pro, you can deliver directly where you need to go – even within the city at night. Our latest trailer refrigeration unit is compliant with even the most stringent inner-city regulations – including PIEK. And thanks to geofencing, your drivers don’t have to manually intervene when they enter a low noise zone.

Get to know the silent addition to our Advancer range on tkadvancer.com

TK__21-140_ENG-ADV-210x297-WhisperPro-Export&Freight_V01.indd 1

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FRIDGE TRAILERS

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Increasing Profit Margins in The Cold Chain Already in the late 1990’s LoadLok noticed increasing pressure on profits and margins for transport companies in refrigerated transport. Fleet operators needed a solution that enabled them to reduce fuel consumption while increasing flexibility in terms of the types of cargo they transport in one trailer. LoadLok developed the IsoLok Frigowall and the IsoLok Tempwall product ranges and has occupied the number one market position in the multitemp segment ever since.

IsoLok Multitemp solutions help to rescale the conditioned compartment to the minimum.

With market-leading insulation performance and compartment closure, IsoLok solutions are able to save users over 40% on energy consumption.

The reduced size of the conditioned compartment enables them to transport dry or cooled products in the remaining space, increasing flexibility and load efficiency. Sean Spelman (Board Member, head of Product & Technology) says: “Regardless of the differences in temperatures, the number of stops, or the flexibility requirements of our customers- we can offer a solution that fits best. We have the widest range in ‘Fixed’ and ‘Removeable’ solutions that excel in insulation values, durability, ergonomy, with the minimum

loading height restriction in the market.”

Customisable With market demands varying greatly, LoadLok’s product offering goes far beyond it standard solutions. If the end-user wishes specific requirements which are not in the product line, LoadLok is able to customise or develop custom-designed solutions, tailored to the specific needs of its customers.

Sean Spelman says: “For a German supermarket chain our R&D and manufacturing teams worked closely with the customer to develop a customised IsoLok Tempwall. The customer has two conditioned compartments in their vehicles separated by a fixed longitudinal wall. To close both compartments with maximum insulating performance, combined with easy and light user operation, we developed the IsoLok Tempwall60

Autostow solution, split in line with the location of the vehicle’s longitudinal divider.

Such was the success of the solution that it has now become the industry standard in supermarket distribution.”

Sean continues: “Another growing market is the transport of temperature sensitive pharmaceutics. Such products demand the highest levels of temperature control.

Combining excellent temperature performance with the short open/ close times needed to minimise temperature variation, together with easy, light, ergonomic operation, we developed the IsoLok Frigowall Pharma for one such pharmaceutical customer. The addition of a manual flap (instead of open air-vents) ensures a sealed vacuum is maintained within the conditioned compartment until its release when the wall needs to be opened.”

Delivering All-Electric Zero-Emission Solutions for End-to-End Cold Chain by 2023 Thermo King, a brand of global climate innovator Trane Technologies, will invest more than $100 million over the next three years to deliver a fully electric product in every segment of the cold chain by 2023.

“The evolve portfolio builds on our ongoing efforts to help customers reduce environmental impact and meet their sustainability goals as they transition fleets and stay ahead of future regulation.”

The company’s all-electric portfolio, branded evolve™, will include electric refrigeration solutions for truck, trailer, rail, air and marine transport in the North America, Latin America and Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) regions.

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The global leader in temperature control solutions already offers fully electric products such as the E-200 for middle and lastmile delivery, and the TE-18 and Athenia all-electric HVAC units for public bus transit.

The evolve portfolio aligns with customers’ goals to transition to more sustainable solutions for their fleets, and will help advance Trane Technologies’2030 Sustainability Commitments, including its Gigaton Challenge to reduce customer greenhouse gas emissions by 1 billion metric tons.

chain segment in EMEA by 2023, and in the Americas by 2025.

As new products are added to the evolve portfolio, electric solutions will be available in every cold

“Bold solutions for a more sustainable world are core to our strategy. We continue to

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innovate to help reduce the carbon footprint of customer operations,” said Paul Camuti, chief technology and sustainability officer for Trane Technologies.

Successfully launched in EMEA in 2020, the Advancer trailer unit is 30% more fuel efficient than the market average and can operate on a variety of power sources such as shore power, hybrid, holdover battery and axle generator.

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CARRIER TRANSICOLD MOVING REEFERS INTO AN EMISSION-FREE FUTURE For temperature-controlled trucks and trailers, there is a lot of misinformation out there implying that fridge engines spend their lives running continuously in our towns and cities, pumping out pollutants.

This isn’t the case, says Scott Dargan, Managing Director UK and North Europe, Carrier Transicold.

“In fact, the average annual engine run time across Carrier Transicold’s entire managed fleet of rigid truck systems is 1,250 hours, meaning for over 85% of a year the engine itself is not actually running.”

He adds: “Moreover, when it is, it won’t always be in an urban environment. Though trailer units do tend to run for longer, they generally travel greater distances, with a lower duty cycle geared towards inner city work.

“That said, with the expansion of clean air zones and similar in our towns and cities, increasing noise restrictions and the impending removal of the red diesel rebate in the UK, it is fair to say the dynamics are starting to change for temperaturecontrolled fleet operators.”

then stored in a battery pack to power the refrigeration unit. This loop creates a fully autonomous system that produces no direct CO2 or particulate emissions.

The Vector eCool’s E-Drive technology means there is no need for the mechanical belts and drive train seen in competitor systems, and with no engine required the noise of diesel power has also been replaced by an electrical hum, meaning it operates significantly below the PIEK 60 dB(A) standard.

This shifting landscape has led to a significant advance in trailer technology, namely with the development of the award-winning Carrier Transicold Vector eCool.

A world first, the Vector eCool is a fully autonomous, all-electric engineless refrigerated trailer system which combines a myriad of new technology to deliver a genuine zero-emission solution.

Suitable for operation with the engineless versions of the Carrier Transicold Vector HE 19 and Vector 1550 E, the Vector eCool combines Carrier’s well-established E-Drive all-electric technology with a new cutting-edge energy recovery and storage system.

This converts kinetic energy generated by the trailer’s axle and brakes into electricity, which is

The total cost of operation for the system will of course depend on an individual customer’s specific application, though internal testing has shown the Vector eCool’s operating costs to be lower than those of a standard diesel refrigeration system.

Regardless of the system, Carrier Transicold customers can rely on exemplary maintenance and repair support from the company’s Service Partner Network, including TSS Ltd, which has sites in Dublin, Limerick and Hillsborough in Northern Ireland.

For all your Carrier Transicold transport refrigeration needs

 Carrier genuine parts  Nationwide service Find out more at www.tssltd.ie Dublin: +353 1861 2800 Limerick: +353 6144 0242 Hillsborough: +44 2892 689 253

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FRIDGE TRAILERS

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Thermo King Launches ThermoKare 24/7 Fleet Monitoring Service Thermo King has unveiled its new ThermoKare 24/7 Fleet Monitoring offering, which combines Thermo King expertise with TracKing Connected Solutions two-way communication capabilities and enables continuous, proactive24/7 monitoring of the customers’ refrigerated fleet.

The ThermoKare 24/7 Fleet Monitoring gives the customers the peace of mind that the environment in which their temperature sensitive cargo is transported, is constantly monitored and taken care of by the industry experts. In case of a temperature deviation or problem with the refrigeration unit, the Thermo King team immediately responds and takes actions to resolve the issue remotely or recommend the nearest on-theground support for rapid resolution.

“The new ThermoKare 24/7 Fleet Monitoring is more than just an alarm that notifies the fleet manager about a problem with the cargo. We’re actually taking this burden off his or her shoulders,” said YoungJo Hong, senior product manager services concepts at Thermo King. “With the ThermoKare 24/7 Fleet Monitoring we paired the real time data analytics with Thermo King experts, who monitor and actively help customers if a problem arises. We’ve combined the technology, knowledge, and service infrastructure to back our customers up throughout every

step of their cargo’s journey.”

In the event of a breakdown or problem, the first action is to resolve it by using the TracKing two-way communication capabilities that allow the Thermo King expert to manage the refrigeration unit remotely. In case the problem couldn’t be resolved remotely and requires an immediate attention from the customer, the customer receives immediate notification of the event including the expert

analysis, recommendation for next steps and directions to the nearest Thermo King service dealership that can provide the solution.

“With ThermoKare 24/7 Fleet Monitoring, our customers can rest assured that the condition in which their cargo travels is monitored and controlled by true experts.

Especially in combination with ThermoKare Service Agreements, our complete uptime solution gives them the peace of mind

to focus on the rest of their operations,” said YoungJo Hong.

A company that has experienced the ThermoKare24/7 Fleet Monitoring service in real life is Transfesa Logistics, a leading company in door-to-door logistics and freight transport solutions.

Transfesa Logistics offers its customers the largest road, train and intermodal door-to-door transport service network in Europe. To meet the specific needs of transporting perishable food and drink products and minimise product spoilage, Transfesa Logistics complemented the high-performing Thermo King refrigeration solutions with the new ThermoKare24/7 Fleet Monitoring service.

“We want to ensure the highest temperature-controlled standards in our containers and a lot can happen when transporting sensitive cargo at long distances,” said Pedro Ramos Vila, global account manager at Transfesa Logistics. “To make sure no failure goes unnoticed at any step of a long journey, and that it is handled accordingly - we decided to leave it in Thermo King’s hands.

“Throughout the six months of using Thermo King’s 24/7 Fleet Monitoring service, it has saved us at least three full cargo loads of perishable shipments.

Those loads would be wasted, if not the intervention of the Thermo King monitoring teams,” concluded Pedro Ramos Vila.

Sustainable refrigeration manufacturer prepares operators for red diesel changes Hultsteins, the British and Swedish hydraulic refrigeration & electric hybrid systems manufacturer, is cautioning temperature-controlled operators to prepare early for the impending withdrawal of the tax rebate on red diesel and refers to a current HMRC paper which states that all TRUs must be emptied of red diesel and re-fuelled with white from April 1st, 2022.

Further, Hultsteins point to the detail regarding the replacement of white diesel by advising that while it is necessary to run down all the red diesel in each tank, it is not mandatory to first clean the system.

Hultsteins’ UK Managing Director, Graham Usher, explains: “Some operators may be of the belief that the existing red diesel in each tank can be used until empty from April 1st 2022 and thereafter that the tank should be cleaned. In fact, according to a white paper produced by HMRC – see https://assets. publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/ system/uploads/attachment_data/file/966132/ Summary_of_responses_to_the_red_diesel_ consultation.pdf - this is not so in both cases

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and continued use of red diesel from this date can attract a £250 fine for each unit, while the expense in terms of labour and downtime to flush out the system need not be incurred.”

HMRC advice states: “...the Government expects users of vehicles and machinery losing their red diesel entitlement to ensure that they do not purchase red diesel for use from 1 April 2022 and run down their existing stocks before that date.”

However, according to Hultsteins, while operators should plan to make these preparations ahead of the new price increase, they can avoid the inevitable and very significant cost burden by fitting an engine drive PTO, to power an on-board

electrical generator which will drive their existing fridge. Alternatively, say the company, they can fit a Hultsteins hydraulic fridge system to any truck or drawbar system and stop using diesel altogether.

“There’s no question,” adds Graham, “anybody taking this easy and affordable course of action will benefit from reduced fuel consumption, lower carbon output, less noise and significant reductions in NOx and particulate emissions. Also, apart from the obvious environmental benefits, operators will be able to drive into the numerous clean air zones currently being identified by local authorities throughout this year and next.”

NEWS

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Wrightbus creates hundreds of permanent jobs as bus orders flood in Bus manufacturer Wrightbus, which is leading the world in zero emission passenger transport, is to create up to 300 permanent jobs after winning a string of orders from the UK and Ireland.

It will also convert 120 existing temporary jobs into permanent positions as it looks to ramp up production at its Ballymena headquarters in what will be a welcome boost to the Northern Ireland economy.

The firm, which was bought out of administration by green entrepreneur Jo Bamford in October 2019, had just 56 members of staff when he took over.

Now thanks to an incredible period of growth driven by the development of word-leading technology - including the creation of the world’s first hydrogen double decker bus, and a marketleading electric double decker bus - the firm is on track to have 930 permanent employees once the new positions have been filled.

Wrightbus hopes the job roles, which will include skilled, semi-skilled, general operators and support staff, will all be filled in 2022. “It’s a fantastic success story, and not one many people would have imagined just a few short years ago,” said Wrightbus MD Neil Collins.

number of bus operators from across the UK and Ireland. And let’s not forget that this has all been achieved despite the terrible effects of the global pandemic over the past 18 months.”

He said employees joining the firm would get the chance to be involved with world-leading technology and systems that were at the forefront of revolutionising the transport industry.

“Our zero emission buses are truly world-leading and we’re incredibly proud of the part they’re playing in the UK’s race to net zero. The fact that our employees get to play their part in this effort makes them incredibly proud, not to mention the fact that they are developing and working with the technology of the future.

“We’re building an incredible team in Ballymena and we want the best people to come and work for us. We’re aiming to increase bus production again next year, which will in turn lead to the creation of

“In the last two years, the company has not only been bought back from the brink, but has been reinvigorated and has seen a period of phenomenal growth. We’ve launched the world’s first hydrogen double decker, we’ve launched the fastest-charging double deck electric bus on the market and we’re now the UK’s only bus builder with both a hydrogen and electric product on the market.

even more permanent jobs. It’s an incredibly exciting time to be involved with Wrightbus.

“We’ve got a strong future ahead of us and we’re proud to be playing an important part in the wider post-Covid recovery of the Northern Irish economy,” he added.

Jo Bamford, who has been the driving force behind the change in fortunes at Wrightbus since buying the business, said: “The last two years have not been easy. We’ve not only had to pull the company back from administration, but we’ve also had to get through unprecedented times due to the effects of the Covid 19 pandemic.

“Introducing two new world-leading products in the Hydroliner and the Electroliner, and being able to bring the workforce up from just 56 people to more than 900 in those two short years is incredibly satisfying, and shows the marked determination that we all have to make sure this business is a world-leading success.

“We’re continuing to invest not only in employees, but in the technological advances that will keep our buses at the very pinnacle of the industry. I’m proud to say Wrightbus is firmly back in business, creating jobs not just in Northern Ireland but indirectly across the UK - and this is only the start of the recovery.”

Jobs on offer will include coachbuilders, welders, vehicle installation electricians, driveline operatives, factory operatives.

“Our order book is looking very healthy with our zero emission buses in high demand, and we have multiple conversations ongoing with a

Circle K selling Covid-19 antigen tests across its network of service stations Forecourt and convenience retailer Circle K has started selling Covid-19 antigen tests in all stores, excluding Circle K Express.

Tests are priced at €8 for an individual test, and Circle K customers will be able to purchase two tests for €14 and three tests for €20.

The antigen test product has been manufactured in Germany and is being supplied through award winning, Irish pharmaceutical company, MyBio, an exclusive supplier of many of the world’s leading bioscience reagents and

rapid tests to the Irish market.

The test is easy to administer and provides results within 15 minutes. It is designed for the rapid qualitative determination of SARS-CoV-2 virus antigen.

EU certified, the antigen test has a 97.83% accuracy rate in detecting proteins of the virus and has shown to be effective in detection of symptomatic and asymptomatic carriers. It is not intended as

the sole basis to diagnose or exclude a COVID-19 case.

Gordon Lawlor, Managing Director, Circle K Ireland commented, “As society continues to reopen and with strong progress on the vaccine rollout front, we feel there is a demand for access to antigen testing products to help further manage the risk associated with this virus.”

“We see the use of antigen tests as a complementary additional safety measure alongside the existing public health advice and Government guidance. It is really important that customers continue to abide by these measures and exercise good judgement when it comes to the usage of antigen tests.”

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EXPORT & FREIGHT AWARDS 2021

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EXPORT & FREIGHT TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS AWARDS 2021 CATEGORIES ANNOUNCED TRANSPORT MANAGER OF THE YEAR

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

a. This award will be presented to the applicant who demonstrates the highest levels of up to date knowledge, professionalism and ability in managing all aspects of a modern transport undertaking.

This will be awarded to an Apprentice, someone not certificated at Level 3 before Sept 2019, who has demonstrated skill and determination in the course of their training and working in a workshop.

b. The applicant will be assessed against all aspects of transport management including – driver recruitment, maintenance, driver licensing, operator licensing, drivers hours/rest periods, vehicle testing, contracts of employment, vehicle excise, financial management, use of IT, fuel efficiency and disciplinary procedures.

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL HAULIER OF THE YEAR

CHILLED OPERATOR OF THE YEAR

a. This award will be presented to the applicant who operates under a standard operator’s licence with more than 20 vehicles specified on their operators licence and demonstrates the highest levels of up to date knowledge, professionalism and high quality service to their respective customer base.

This award will be presented to the best Chilled Operator who presents an up-to-date modern fleet with a high quality distribution service.

The judges will be looking for an operator who complies with all temperature controlled regulations and service options.

OWN ACCOUNT OPERATOR OF THE YEAR (Restricted Licence Holder) a. This award will be presented to the applicant who operates under an own account (Restricted) operator’s licence and demonstrates the highest levels of up to date knowledge, professionalism and high quality service to their respective customer base. b. Judges will pay particular regard to all aspects of the business including a well-presented modern fleet who deliver a highly efficient and effective service to their customer base. Other aspects on the business will be assessed including business planning, employee retention and recruitment, training, fleet compliance, operator licensing, contracts of employment, use of IT, fuel efficiency and environmental issues

SAFETY AWARD Each company will need to demonstrate how they manage, control, and monitor the quality aspects of their respective companies and be able to describe roles, responsibilities, and methodologies for ensuring compliance with all regulatory bodies. Review of the company’s strategy and controls currently employed, or to be developed and implemented by the company, to consistently deliver products and services that meet the requirements of the Safety Award.

*Read more at https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-20/

(over 20 Vehicles)

b. Judges will pay particular regard to all aspects of the business including a well-presented modern fleet who deliver a highly efficient and effective service to their customer base. Other aspects on the business will be assessed including business planning, employee retention and recruitment, training, fleet compliance, operator licensing, contracts of employment, use of IT, fuel efficiency and environmental issues.

HAULIER OF THE YEAR (up to 20 Vehicles)

a. This award will be presented to the applicant who operates under a standard operator’s licence with 20 or less vehicles specified on their operator’s licence and demonstrates the highest levels of up to date knowledge, professionalism and high quality service to their respective customer base. b. Judges will pay particular regard to all aspects of the business including a well-presented modern fleet who deliver a highly efficient and effective service to their customer base. Other aspects on the business will be assessed including business planning, employee retention and recruitment, training, fleet compliance, operator licensing, contracts of employment, use of IT, fuel efficiency and environmental issues.

TOP TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT OPERATOR OF THE YEAR This award will be presented to the operator who demonstrates the highest standards of in-house training programmes developed in line with best practice and leading edge training providers to ensure compliance, enhance safety and develop staff. The training must be designed and provided for delivery to staff solely within the business and not for delivery to external 3rd party customers.

EXPORT & FREIGHT AWARDS 2021

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TBC

DRIVER OF THE YEAR

TOP FLEET OF THE YEAR

This Award will be presented to the commercial vehicle driver who offers a high standard of driving skills, excellent driving record, immaculate vehicle and dress code and dedication to the trade. This will be a practical test held at Transport Training Services, Nutts Corner, in August. Please send a CV and hi res image of the candidate. A practical driving test will determine the winner.

This will be presented to an outstanding fleet of vehicles based on appearance, quality, maintenance programmes, driver efficiency, skill and professionalism. Judges will be looking for carefully planned maintenance systems, low levels of downtime, well-kept vehicles and drivers and investment in the latest models, driving aids and technology.

INNOVATION EXCELLENCE AWARD

TRAILER FLEET OF THE YEAR

The Innovation Excellence Award is open to all companies operating within the transport and logistics sector who have invested in innovative solutions to make their operations more efficient, profitable and successful. This can be any type of innovation from the latest equipment and facilities to cutting edge technology or environmental solutions.

Any type of transport operation is invited to enter from shipping lines to hauliers, van fleet operators to own account fleets. The contender is invited to illustrate in the entry their innovative solutions for their business.

EXCELLENCE IN CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD

TBC

This will be open to all companies who pride themselves in the level of their customer service including Dealers, Service Agents, Equipment Suppliers, Hauliers, Shipping companies etc. Entrants should show how they have gone the extra mile to provide the highest level of excellence in their service to all customers and outline why their company deserves the accolade of the best Service Provider. Customer testimonies, though not essential, are advised, as these will show examples of quality customer service. These will be totally confidential and shredded once the judging has taken place.

TOP TEAM OF THE YEAR This award is open to all companies and businesses in every sector of the logistics industry - from transport and logistics operators to exporters, warehousing experts, shipping companies and dealerships and recognises teams within the organisation who by working together on a project, initiative or strategy have made a significant and positive contribution, perhaps by overcoming difficulties and challenges to do so.

A team, by definition, could be made up by just two people, or a hundred; size is not important. What is important is that the team can demonstrate outstanding achievement or accomplishment in their area or field of expertise.

HOME AND BUSINESS DELIVERY OPERATOR OF THE YEAR This award is aimed at operators in the Home and Business Delivery sectors who can clearly demonstrate high standards of operational compliance and customer service. Operators will be required to provide evidence of safe and efficient best practice in the areas of; vehicle maintenance and standards; driver licencing, competence and behaviour; safe working environment including working practices and fuel efficiency; demonstrate how peak flows in demand are handled; proven on-time delivery statistics; and customer service. Entries are encouraged from companies who consider themselves the delivery operator of choice for the retailer, business owner and consumer.

This award will be presented to an operator whose trailer fleet consistently offers exceptional standards in every aspect of operation, including use of innovation, safety performance, vehicle efficiency and operational uptime. The winner will also be able to demonstrate how their trailer specification is tailored to their operational requirements and supports their business objectives. Please send details of your trailer fleet including any specialist operations offered.

VAN OF THE YEAR

TBC

This Award invites all van manufacturers to nominate one vehicle from their model range with a 900-1700 kg payload, which they see as the ultimate fleet van for the UK and Ireland. The only conditions are that the nominated vehicle must be reasonably new and a proven workhorse for a wide range of locally, nationally or internationally running fleets.

One will be picked as Van of the Year by an independent panel of Judges.

LIVERIED VEHICLE OF THE YEAR

TBC

This Award is open to any company who owns and operates an individual vehicle with an outstanding livery and befitting a flagship vehicle within the company. Entries must be accompanied by hi res photographs of the vehicle and details of the livery, what the vehicle is used for operationally and why the company invested in the unit.

FLEET TRUCK OF THE YEAR This award invites all truck manufacturers to nominate one vehicle from their model range over 18 tonnes GVW which they see as the ultimate fleet truck for the UK and Ireland, the only conditions being that the nominated vehicle must be reasonably new and a proven workhorse for a wide range of locally, nationally or internationally running fleets.

One will be picked as Fleet Truck of the Year by an independent panel of judges.

LOGISTICS & WAREHOUSING SPECIALIST This will be presented to a national organisation with bases in Ireland/ UK and/or Europe offering a high level of international logistics service covering all aspects of the supply chain including haulage, warehousing, and distribution. The winner will prove a total commitment to providing an excellent range of logistics services and exceptional levels of customer care.

TRANSPORT PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR This award will be presented to the individual whose personal achievement deserves industry recognition.

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TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS AWARDS CROWNE PLAZA, SHAW'S BRIDGE, BELFAST THURSDAY 9 th DECEMBER 2021

BOOK YOUR TABLE NOW EXPORT & FREIGHT 12 Main Street, Hillsborough, Co. Down BT26 6AE N.Ireland Tel: 028 9268 8888 Fax: 028 9268 8866 Email: helen@4squaremedia.net

Please Reserve

seats @£140+VAT or

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tables(s) of ten places @£1,270+VAT

at the Export & Freight Irish Transport & Logistics Awards 2021, Thursday 9th December 2021 at 7pm for 7:30pm sharp.

Name of Company: Invoice Address:_______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ Post Code:____________________________ Contact Name:____________________________________ Tel:__________________________________ Dress Code: Gentlemen - Lounge Suit. Ladies - Cocktail Dress The above prices are plus VAT and will be shown as such on the official receipt.

THIS PRIORITY BOOKING FORM TO BE POSTED TO: Export & Freight, 12 Main Street, Hillsborough, Co. Down BT26 6AE, or email table / seating requirements to helen@4squaremedia.net

FROM THE OFFICE OF

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Peter Morrow FORS Manager – Northern Ireland.

EFFICIENCY IS STILL KEY TO SUCCESSFUL FLEET MANAGEMENT For many fleet operators in Northern Ireland, the external challenges that the road transport industry has faced for some time were amplified over the last 18 months, with the onset of the global pandemic, uncertain requirements post-Brexit, an ongoing driver shortage and rising fuel duty costs, all of which did not make an easy run for many operators.

Driving efficiency across all aspects of a fleet operation is therefore of utmost importance if a business is to meet the demands of a changing landscape and maintain profitability.

FORS members are well versed in measuring efficiency, as part of their commitment to reducing emissions, the benefit of which is of course, a healthier bottom-line.

An increasing number of operators are using the FORS Fleet Management System (FMS) as a means to help improve operational efficiency and improve profitability. Since its launch in 2018, FORS FMS has risen in popularity among members, with 226 fleets signed up to the system.

FORS FMS is a subscription-based service, available exclusively to FORS members in collaboration with FORS Affinity Partner,

Fleet Tools FORS members can access the free to use FORS Fleet Tools portal, also created in collaboration with FleetCheck, which provides a range of data management tools, including a fuel tracker to record and monitor fuel usage, miles per gallon, CO2 levels and efficiency improvements.

The Fleet Tools portal features a penalty charge notice tracker to help members manage and therefore seek to reduce the number of penalties received, and an incident tracker to record, track and monitor incidents involving drivers or vehicles, including service and roadworthiness and road traffic collisions.

For example, encouraging hauliers to improve fleet efficiencies on every journey, whether long haul or on rural roads, in combination with improved operational practices, will contribute to long-term overall reductions in fuel costs for fleets. FORS members have found improving MPG by just five per cent can save them over £2,200 (excluding VAT) per HGV per year*.

What is more, FORS’s continued emphasis on fuel management as a route to better fleet efficiency has resulted in a 12 per cent year on year improvement in reported MPG performance among FORS Gold members**.

vehicle inspection process, making it easy for drivers to carry out routine vehicle inspections, including photo-capability to report defects and to expedite maintenance requirements – all imported to a FORS FMS account to provide complete transparency.

FleetCheck, that draws on live data sources to consolidate fleet management data such as fuel cards, telematics and driver records.

FORS members can also benefit from a trial period of up to three months, as well as free set-up – saving £10 per vehicle.

FORS FMS is a comprehensive data platform which provides online document storage, an information portal and an advanced reporting suite. Its intuitive traffic-light system alerts users to primary calendar events such as MOTs, service intervals, driver training and licence checking.

FORS FMS also includes an app for mobile devices; an electronic version of the manual

Measuring and monitoring an entire fleet is the most accurate way for FORS members to identify where efficiencies can be made, and the swiftest route to understanding the cost savings such efficiencies will bring. In challenging times, having a full picture of fleet data and the tools with which to manage it, will go a long way to improving profitability for hauliers.

To find out more, visit https:// www.fleetcheck.co.uk/fors-fleetmanagement-system/ For more information about becoming a FORS member, visit: www.fors-online.org.uk *Year on year MPG improvements drawn from 138 FORS Gold member case studies in 2018 **Performance data taken from 115 FORS Gold members during 2019

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Allen Logistics Managing Director James Allen chooses Mercedes-Benz trucks for their reliability and competitive running costs, and for MBNI Truck & Van’s reassuring back-up.

Allen Logistics drivers Graham Cantley, left, and Modestas Valantinas are delighted with their new Mercedes-Benz Actros tractor units.

NEW OR USED, MERCEDESBENZ IS ALLEN’S KEY TO RELIABLE, COST-EFFECTIVE TRUCK OPERATION Family-owned Allen Logistics turned once again to MBNI Truck & Van for the latest additions to a fleet in which Mercedes-Benz now holds sway.

The operator’s two new Actros tractor units – its first to be equipped with ground-breaking MirrorCam technology – are working between its headquarters in Craigavon, Co. Armagh, and a depot in Lutterworth, Leicestershire.

confirmed: “We favour Mercedes-Benz trucks for their ‘bulletproof’ reliability and attractive whole-life costs of operation. The new units are performing well in terms of fuel-efficiency and the drivers are very happy with them.

Meanwhile, the pre-owned 18-tonne Actros which it purchased shortly afterwards is assigned to palletised distribution, and working primarily within an hour’s drive of base.

“They like their comfortable cabs and the smart new dash layout. They also needed very little time to get used to the MirrorCam system, which we were keen to introduce to the fleet because of the safety benefits it offers. Not only does this impressive technology provide improved rear vision, but it also eliminates the forward-facing blind spots caused by mirrors.”

A three-time winner of the prestigious Haulier of the Year trophy at the annual Export & Freight Transport & Logistics Awards, Allen Logistics has been gradually shifting the balance of its mixed-marque fleet in favour of Mercedes-Benz. Today, roughly two-thirds of its vehicles wear three-pointed stars.

The new tractor units are both 2548 variants with flat-floored 2.5 m StreamSpace cabs and 12.8-litre in-line six-cylinder engines with 350 kW (476 hp) outputs. Their impressive specifications include upgraded versions of Mercedes-Benz Trucks’ radical Multimedia Cockpit, which replaces traditional switchgear with stylish and intuitively operated twin screens – in optional interactive form, this features a larger, 12in instrument panel and comes with extra functionality, including satellite navigation.

Acquired with competitive funding support from Mercedes-Benz Finance, the Actros have replaced vehicles by another brand. They leave Belfast each Sunday night bound for Birkenhead, then Lutterworth. Through the week they run trailers between the depot and port, before returning to Northern Ireland on Friday nights.

Allen Logistics Managing Director James Allen

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Service Contracts As with its other Mercedes-Benz tractors, the latest two are the subject of MercedesBenz Complete Service Contracts – although work is sometimes carried out at MBNI Truck

& Van’s main workshop in Newtownabbey, most inspections and maintenance are undertaken at the Dealer’s branch in Dungannon, which is less than 20 miles away.

However, the 18- and 26-tonners that form the backbone of the fleet are serviced at Allen Logistics’ own maintenance facility, for which MBNI Truck & Van manages an imprest parts stock.

The most recent Mercedes-Benz Approved Used addition to the rigid vehicle line-up is a low-mileage Actros 1824 with ClassicSpace L-cab, 175 kW (238 hp) 7.7-litre ‘straightsix’, curtainside body and tuckaway tail-lift.

“Given the nature of the work, and the fact that the trucks aren’t covering high mileages, it makes sense to purchase top-quality pre-owned models from Mercedes-Benz for our palletised collections and deliveries,” explained James Allen.

“Experience has proved that other makes of truck don’t last anything like as long, while those we buy from MBNI Truck & Van are always beautifully presented and come with full histories.”

He added: “The Dealer’s Truck Sales Executive Tim Moore is very responsive and provides a first-class service. The same is true of his aftersales colleagues – parts availability is very good, and they can always be relied upon to get a vehicle into the workshop at short notice when we need them to do so.”

In addition to its mainstream distribution operations between the UK and Ireland, Allen Logistics is a member of the Hazchem Network and offers warehousing and European freight forwarding services, specialising in Scandinavian markets.

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ANOTHER MEMORABLE EXPORT & FREIGHT GOLF MASTERS 2021 After a year’s absence because of the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, the annual Export & Freight Masters Golf Day was once again staged at the challenging and award winning 18-hole Faldo Championship Golf Course at Lough Erne Resort in Fermanagh.

With 140 golfers taking part, the event was extremely well supported and it is fair to say that everyone had a great time, aided and abetted by what turned out to be a fine autumn day on the greens.

There were plenty of prizes being won along the way, with the Green Jacket going to Ritchie Gartland, who beat off some stiff competition from second placed man Conor Patton, followed by Tony Mahon in third.

The Peter Ray Memorial Trophy and the overall Team Prize went to Close Brothers Finance with an impressive score of 100 points; second was the team representing Michelin and A1 Tyres on 85 points, with NIBC following closely behind on 83 points.

And being the Faldo Championship Course it was only appropriate that there should

be a prize for what we called ‘the Faldo Challenge.’ It was won by Gary Kidd, who picked up a luxury overnight bag presented

by Export & Freight’s Phil Eaglestone.

“A big ‘thank you’ to everyone who took part, and to our many sponsors, without whom this event would not have happened,” comments Export & Freight’s Garfield Harrison, “and a big ‘thank you’ also to the hard working staff at the Lough Erne Resort. Despite all the challenges of Covid-19, the event went off as planned, even though we couldn’t have our traditional day of activities for our non-golfers. Hopefully, next year we will be back to ‘normal’.”

The day was rounded off by a four-course evening meal, including wine - and the allimportant prize giving ceremony – all of which we managed to capture on camera.

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GOLF MASTERS 2021

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Export & Freight #1

Export & Freight #2

Briggs Equipment

Gary Crabbe, Export&Freight; and Rob Ireland,

Phil Eaglestone, Export&Freight; Wayne Horwood, HNH Group; Ben McKnight, Metal Technology; and Robert Emerson of Stanley Emerson.

Anthony Rooney, Colin McNeely, Wayne Sloan and Chris Budd.

P&O Ferries

Mantis Live

Richard Woodings of Terberg Dts (Uk) Limited, Roy Ferguson, Michael Callahan and Simon King.

Jamie Marsh, Matt Thompson, Courtney Marsh and Josh Kernahan.

Abbey Insurance; Garfield Harrison, Alan Lewis, LHW Financial Planning; Dennison Commercials

Simon King

Cameramatics

MPANI

Cathal Cullen, JCB Finance; Mark Cosgrove, Redhead; Mark Browne and Mickey Browne, Cameramatics

Pat Duffy; Jonny Cole, Breedon Cement; Gavin McGuire, FMB; and Gordon Best; MPANI

Michelin/AI Tyres

Cronus Logistics

Road Trucks

Aaron Clydesdale, A One Tyres; John Lawell, BOC; David Currie and Richie Gartland, A One Tryes

Brian Magee and Nicola Walker, Cronus; Kieran Grant, Warrenpoint Port; and Eoin O’Mahoney, Cronus

Mark Skelton, Road Tankers, Armagh; David Bonnes, Road Trucks; Eric Shaw, Scania; and Martin Hanley, Road Trucks

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Sean Hughes

GOLF MASTERS 2021

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NIBC

Diamond Trucks #2

Aodh Hannon, Hannon Transport; Conor Patton, NIBC; Killian Morgan, Americold; and John Joe Morgan, Morgan McClernon

Pat McGarry, Henderson Wholesale; Cathal Geoghegan, Henderson Foodservice; Harry Nash, Diamond Trucks; and Kieran Campbell, Campbell Bulk Haulage

Diamond Trucks #1

NI Trucks team #2

NI Trucks team #1

Iain Latimer, Diamond Trucks; Billy Moore, Henderson Group; Micky Kelly, MK Trucks; and David Watts, Henderson Group

Philip Davidson, ND Grain; Rod Hawkins, NI Trucks; David Wilson, Starplan; and John Heenan, Landbridge

Steve Benton, D Curran & Sons; Mark Smith, NI Trucks; and Tommy Maxwell, Maxwell Freight

Paul McGuire

Circle K

Hireco

David Watts John Watson, James Morgan, Mark Hughes and Sean Hughes

Tony Watts, Gary Finn, Richard Todd and Sean McErlean

Allied Fleet Services

IMQS

StenaLine

Stephen McAnerney, Paul Hagan, Owen McCaffrey and Jamie Gillan

Francis Mackey; Sean Finlay, Geological Survey; John Francis, Finning; and Declan Power

Robert Heavin, Carna Transport; James Allen, Allen Logistics; Dickie Curran, D Curran & Sons; and Ted Magowan, Lough Erne Golf Club

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GOLF MASTERS 2021

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CIP Insurance

Scruttons

Nial McFerran, CIP Insurance David Dawson, CIP Insurance Gary Kidd, ALMAC and Mark Carpenter, Anfield Transport

Stephen McCann; Michael Powers; Declan Freeman and David O’Connor

GUS Commercials

SDC Truck and Trailer Parts

Mercedes Benz team #1

Mark Montgomery, Ciaran O’Neill, Jonny McKinney and Paul McGuire

Gavin Diamond; Brian McManus, Pat Muldoon and Scott Cowie

Neil McKibben, Tony Mardon, Mick Kiely and Ken Knox

Mercedes Benz team #2

TBF Thompson

Dalradian Gold

Robert McMullan, Colin Nicholl, Kevin McGarry and Chris Fillis

Michael Donnelly, KDM Hire; Brian Anderson, River Ridge Recycling; Liam O’Neill, TBF Thompson; and Daniel McIlroy, RTU

Richard Tweed, UIE; Pat O’Connor, Breedon Group; Ciaran McCreanor, Dalradian Gold; and Stephen Kelly, Manufacturing NI

Close Brothers Finance

Belfast Harbour

Fitzroy Group

Garvan McAuley, Close Brothers; Adrian Slane, ACS Civils; Declan McKeever and Darren McKeever, WWFP

Gary Stewart, Quay Cargo; Colin McClements, Belfast Harbour; Sean McCready, Doyle Shipping; and Denis McCotter, WH Stephens

Paul Best, Ian McMurray, Alan Harrison and Eamon McCarron

Josh Kernahan

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GOLF MASTERS 2021

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Colin McNeely

Eoin O’Mahoney

Micky Kelly

Matt Thompson tees off

Stephen McCann and the Scruttons team

Paul Hagan

Jonny McKinney

Wayne Horwood

Richard Woodings

Alan Lewis

Eoin O’Mahoney

Ciaran O’Neill

Nicola Walker

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GOLF MASTERS 2021

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Jonny Cole

A One Tyres

Robert Emerson

Ciaran O’Neill

Dickie Curran and Robert Heavin

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Martin Hanley and Mark Skelton

Mercedes Benz team 2

Declan Freeman

Martin Hanley

Gavin Diamond

Stephen McAnerney

GOLF MASTERS 2021

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Alan Lewis

Gary Kidd

Aodh Hannon

Gavin McGuire

Anthony Rooney

Mark Browne

Mickey Browne

Wayne Sloan

Robert Emerson

Darren McKeever

James Allen

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GOLF MASTERS 2021

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Hole 7 - Modern Tyres.

Hole 13 - Mantis with the NI Trucks Team.

Hole 16 - NI Trucks with the Stena Line Team.

Dalradian refuelling at P&O’s Half Way House 9th Hole.

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GOLF MASTERS 2021

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2ND INDIVIDUAL 2nd Overall - Conor Patton

3RD INDIVIDUAL

1ST INDIVIDUAL – GREEN JACKET

3rd Overall - Tony Mahon

1st Overall - Prize: Export & Freight Green Presented by Garfield Harrison - Winner: Richie Gartland.

2021

SCOREBOARD

TOP 3 1 RICHIE GARTLAND ............................40 PTS

TEAM 1 CLOSE BROTHERS ...........................100 PTS

2 CONOR PATTON .................................38 PTS

2 MICHELIN/A ONE TYRES...................85 PTS

(HANDICAP 2) (HANDICAP 8)

3 TONY MAHON .....................................37 PTS (HANDICAP 9)

3 NIBC ....................................................83 PTS BETTER BACK NINE

BETTER BACK NINE

2ND OVERALL TEAM 2nd Overall Team - Winners: Aaron Clydesdale, David Currie, John Lawell and Richie Gartland (Michelin/A One Tyres Team)

2021

WINNER 1ST OVERALL TEAM

Peter Ray Memorial Claret trophy

1st Overall Team - Garfield Harrison presents Winner Garvan McAuley (Close Brothers Finance Team) the Peter Ray Memorial Claret Jug

3RD OVERALL TEAM 3rd Overall Team - Winner: Connor Patton and Aodh Hannon (NIBC Team)

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GOLF MASTERS 2021

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1ST HOLE LONGEST DRIVE

2ND HOLE NEAREST THE PIN IN 2

Adrian Logan starting the nights awards and prize giving

Sponsored by RK Trucks Centres Ltd Winner Eoin O’Mahoney presented by Adrian Logan.

Sponsored by Hireco - Winner Scott Cowie presented by Ricky Graham

3RD HOLE NEAREST THE PIN

4TH HOLE LONGEST DRIVE

5TH HOLE NEAREST THE PIN

Sponsored by SDC Parts and Services - Presented by Gavin Diamond to Winner David Dawson

Sponsored by Circle K - Presented by John Watson to Declan Power

Sponsored by Mercedes Benz - Presented by Neil McKibben to Winner Richard Tweed

6TH HOLE LOWEST SCORE

7TH HOLE NEAREST THE PIN IN 2

8TH HOLE NEAREST THE PIN IN TWO

Sponsored by Cameramatics - Presented by Ciaran Murphy to Winner Ciaran O’Neill

Sponsored by Modern Tyres - Presented by Stephen Shaw to Winner Sean Hughes

Sponsored by TBF Thompson/Daf Trucks - Presented by Liam O’Neill - Winner: Mark Carpenter

9TH HOLE LONGEST DRIVE

9TH HOLE LONGEST DRIVE

10TH HOLE NEAREST THE PIN IN 2

Sponsored by P&O Ferries - Presented by Roy Ferguson - Winner: Ben McKnight (Phil Eaglestone collected the award on his behalf)

Sponsored by P&O Ferries - Presented by Roy Ferguson Winner: Nicola Walker

Sponsored by Aquarious - Presented by Guy Reynolds Winner: Sean McErlean

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GOLF MASTERS 2021

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11TH HOLE LONGEST DRIVE

13TH HOLE NEAREST THE PIN

14TH HOLE NEAREST THE PIN IN THREE

Sponsored by Cronus - Presented by Nicola Walker Winner: Darren McKeever

Sponsored by Mantis Live - Presented by Jamie Marsh Winner: Aaron Clydesdale

Sponsored by Briggs Equipment - Presented by Colin McNeely Winner: Nicola Walker

14TH HOLE NEAREST THE PIN IN THREE

16TH HOLE LONGEST DRIVE

17TH HOLE LONGEST DRIVE

Sponsored by Michelin Tyres/A One Tyres - Presented by Lisa Bicker Winner: Gordon Best

Sponsored by NI Trucks - Presented by Mark Smith Winner: Alan Lewis

Sponsored by Stena - Presented by Anna Breen - Winner: Kieran Campbell

18TH HOLE NEAREST THE PIN

BEST DRESSED TEAM

FALDO CHALLENGE

Sponsored by Diamond Trucks - Presented by Iain Latimer Winner: John Lawell

Sponsored by Allied Fleet Servicess - Presented by Stephen McAnerney - Winner: Colin McNeely of team Briggs Equipment

Sponsored by Export & Freight - Presented by Phil Eaglestone Winner: Gary Kidd

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CONTRACT HIRE

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CONTRACT HIRE MORE POPULAR THAN EVER When it comes to managing big or small vehicle fleets, it often pays to opt for contract hire, as increasing numbers of our leading operators are doing.

Indeed, the benefits of contract hire are quite significant, especially for operators who don’t have their own garage facilities or technicians to maintain and service their trucks, trailers or vans.

With contract hire, you will know exactly what your monthly outgoings will be to keep your vehicles on the road; there will be no unpleasant shocks or surprises. And, of course, your capital will be freed up to spend on other areas of your business.

You’ll not have to worry about maintaining the vehicles as that can come as a standard feature of any contract hire package – and if you experience any breakdowns, a replacement vehicle will be immediately supplied, so you will experience

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no downtime. Most packages come with 24/7 breakdown cover.

Other cost savings include the fact that you will have no asset depreciation concerns or no disposal issues or costs to incur – all of that falls on the shoulders of your contract hire provider.

Whether you need one vehicle or a hundred vehicles, short term hire or long term hire, there are packages to suit your individual needs, which includes vehicles that meet your own specification, and they can be supplied bearing your own business livery.

We have been speaking to a number of fleet operators who have gone down the road of contract hire and over the next few pages you can read how their businesses have benefited.

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BRIDGE COMMERCIALS:

HIGH SPEC VAN HIRE & SALES AT COMPETITIVE RATES With more than 30 years’ experience in the commercial vehicle sales, support and hire market, there’s not much that Patrick Winter doesn’t know about the industry; his company Bridge Commercials has become the first port of call for many seeking a quality vehicle at a competitive price.

Easily accessible on the main Belfast to Dublin corridor on the A1 near Hillsborough in County Down, no matter where you are in the country, Bridge Commercials always has a vast range of vans, 4 x 4s, pick-ups, dropsides and tippers available for both short- or long- term hire, and for sale.

The business has come a long way since car enthusiast Patrick, who served his time as a coachbuilder with a Banbridge company, set up his own small operation, initially fitting car alarms in the 1980s before moving on to van sales.

He recalls buying his first secondhand van – a Mark III Ford Escort - and selling it on after

repairing and servicing it; another four vans followed, and before long the business began growing.

Today, he has built up a wellrespected reputation across the country, with customers coming from the length and breadth of the island of Ireland - from as far away as Cork and Galway.

“I have met some fantastic customers over the years; they have been very loyal, some have been dealing with me for over 25 years,” says Patrick, who has a 17-strong in-house team behind him. “We are all fully focused on providing customers with the highest level of service and support.”

Whether it is a Citroen Berlingo, a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, a Volkswagen Caddy or Crafter, a Ford Transit Custom or even a mini-bus or crew van, Bridge Commercials will deliver – and if they haven’t got a particular brand or model readily available, it can be quickly sourced.

“With over three decades in the business, we have built up an extensive network of suppliers and trade contacts, so there is not much that we cannot source,” adds Patrick. “Our large stock of commercial vehicles is constantly being updated and expanded which means customers can be assured of getting modern, reliable and

fit for purpose vans - and with flexible short- or long- term leasing, previously unaffordable vehicles can become easily available.”

Bridge Commercials have extensive, fully equipped workshops manned by highly trained technicians and bodyshop repairers to ensure that any vehicle leaving their premises will be serviced and maintained to the highest possible standards – and if you are taking a van on a long-term basis, you can specify bespoke modifications such as sign writing, shelving or even lifting equipment – and enjoy the benefits of a comprehensive maintenance package.

WHY CHOOSE

bridge C O M M E R C I A L S

LT D

Specialising for 30 years in van sales, service and hire throughout Ireland with a huge range of small, medium and large vans for sale.

BEFORE YOU GET A USED VEHICLE FROM

bridge C O M M E R C I A L S

LT D

WE’VE ALREADY BEEN • Over it and under it, • In the front and back of it, • Outside and inside.

• In the engine, • Inspected it, • Driven it & approved it.

165 Dromore Road, Hillsborough BT26 6JA

E: office@bridgecommercials.co.uk

T: 028 9268 9000

www.bridgecommercials.co.uk

sales

hire service EXPORT&FREIGHT

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CONTRACT HIRE

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WHY CONTRACT RENTAL FROM HIRECO N.I. MAKES SOUND OPERATIONAL & FINANCIAL SENSE More and more fleet operators across the country are opting for contract hire when it comes to expanding their trailer fleet, with many turning to Hireco NI as their preferred partner, and not without good reason.

Regarded as the leading commercial trailer rental and leasing company in Northern Ireland, its fleet is constantly being expanded and updated to meet with customer demands.

Being an integral part of the wider Hireco group, the Belfast based company can offer operators around the clock service and support network that covers all of Ireland and the UK, with depots that are well located in key geographical areas and are also connected to the main arterial road networks and ports - one reason why Hireco NI continues to grow.

Another is that its trailer fleet is as modern as they come, being upgraded on a regular basis with several hundred new additions in last 12 months alone to ensure customers benefit from all the latest technology and innovations.

A third major reason for the company’s growth is quite simply that contract hire makes sound financial sense for most, if not all, transport operators, so let’s hear from some of them.

specialized equipment and drivers fully trained to the specification required by the customer.

Global Cargo Solutions was founded in 2016

by Andy Woolsey. With life long experience in the transport industry Andy’s vision of a customer driven and family run haulage provider was soon put into practice by himself and his two daughters Jemma and Andrea.

From humble beginnings in 2016 with two tractor units the company has flourished into a moderate sized but vibrant logistics provider operating a fleet of 40 plus modern tractor units and over 150 trailers consisting of curtainsiders, pharmaceutical compliant temperature controlled trailers, and an ever increasing fleet of double deck express groupage line haul trailers manufactured to the customers specification.

Global Cargo Solutions have grown from strength to strength in their field of expertise - from general full load trailer freight between UK & Ireland to bespoke logistics solutions using

Global Cargo Solutions Managing Director Andrew Woolsey says his entire trailer fleet is on a five year contract rental package from Hireco.

“By working in partnership with Hireco, I can

GLOBAL CARGO SOLUTIONS

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spend all of my time focusing on my business without having to worry about running a garage to service and maintain our trailers,” he says.

“Having operated with my own trailers in the past, equipping workshops and employing a team of technicians I know the costs involved, but when you weigh that against contract hire, it is so much better financially being able to leave all of that side of the business to Hireco; all the trailers they supply to us come with our own company livery and logos.

“In the event of a trailer breakdown or developing a fault, I simply pick up the phone and Hireco will sort it out; they’ve always been very responsive, ready and willing in

CONTRACT HIRE

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that regard – and the team there are always ready to take on board our specific needs and requirements, even to the extent of providing us with a customised solution.”

Adds Andrew: “The service we get from Hireco has been very important in the growth of our business, and having the latest trailers in our fleet also helps us to retain and attract our driving team, which is a significant bonus, considering the chronic shortage of drivers in the industry.”

LANDBRIDGE LOGISTICS Another well established and successful company taking advantage of Hireco’s service is Landbridge Logistics who operate out of depots in Belfast, Dublin, Cork, Glasgow and the English Midlands.

“Although we also run some of our own trailers, we’ve been renting out units from Hireco for over 20 years,” says Managing Director Peter Heenan. “The big advantage of using Hireco is the personalised service they provide; it is so much better than you would get from the big multi-nationals. Any problems we’ve ever had have been sorted without delay by the team at Hireco.”

Ireland. That means no matter where in the country we need back-up, it will be provided with minimal delay,” says Peter.

And that service is essential as the company’s trailer fleet is based throughout the country – around 20 in Belfast, about 12 in Dublin, a further 20 in Cork and six in Derby. “So, whatever time of day or night, we know we can call on Hireco to sort us out,” adds Peter. “We have an excellent working partnership with the team; we are all on first name terms, and you wouldn’t get that dealing with a call centre.”

Landbridge Logistics was established back in 1988 and today runs an impressive mixed fleet of trucks and single- and double- deck trailers distributing goods throughout the UK and Ireland, employing a team of drivers, many of whom are trained in ADR and pharmaceutical deliveries.

NEW TRAILERS

Providing a closed loop distribution service to facilitate smooth and speedy movement of goods from point of manufacturer to end-user means reliability of truck and trailer is vital.

Ricky Graham, Managing Director of Hireco, also adds with the long waiting times when now ordering new trailers from all the manufacturers contact hire makes even more sense.

“A big advantage of using Hireco is the high level of support and service they can provide on a nationwide basis, with strategically located depots throughout the UK and

“With being part of the Hireco Group we always have plenty of new trailers coming through which can be tweaked to your colours and livery then delivered in a reasonable time frame.

“These can be supplied on a long term basis with or without maintenance but most people are now going for the maintenance option as it’s also now becoming even tougher to recruit workshop staff as well.

“Even if you run a garage at the minute and your business needs to expand further but cannot access the equipment in time we can still supply trailers and do the maintenance which lifts all that pressure and additional overhead and hassle and offer you a fixed cost solution.”

USED TRAILER SALES Hireco NI also have a specialist disposal division, situated at their site at Belfast docks where there is always a large choice of ex fleet trailers, various types available on a straight sales basis or can be re-hired at very competitive rates.

Every ex-rental truck and trailer supplied by Hireco NI benefits from stringent servicing and maintenance and carries a full service history, which means customers can be assured of getting the highest quality equipment in the market.

Get in touch: 1-4 Herdman Channel Road, Duncrue Street, Belfast BT3 9LG

T: 02890 740 202 E: salesni@hireco.co.uk

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GUS COMMERCIALS FOR CONTRACT HIRE THAT IS REACTIVE, RESPONSIVE & RELIABLE When it comes to contract hire, GUS Commercials Ltd, one of Northern Ireland’s most reputable independent providers of commercial vehicle hire, which was acquired last year by Traction Finance, has proved to be the perfect solution for a growing number of our leading transport and logistics providers.

When GUS Commercials was established in 2006 by a team of transport industry professionals, the aim was to offer the market a service built on quality, trust and, most importantly, value for money, and that remains true today under the Traction Finance umbrella.

Traction Finance has been a leading vehicle finance and management company since 2003 offering vehicle sourcing, funding and maintenance for one vehicle to an entire fleet, including cars and light commercial vehicles.

What started as a small scale company in Belfast has now grown across the entire island of Ireland and the UK. With GUS Commercials on board, its business now includes commercial contract hire, hire purchase and financing of both new and used vehicles.

Contract hiring a commercial vehicle, of course, is the ideal solution if you don’t want the financial risk and administrative burden of buying, running, and servicing van and truck fleets – which is why progressive transport and distribution companies like AM Nextday and the PING Group have opted for contract hire from GUS Commercials as it offers one of the most diverse short-term commercial vehicle hire fleets in the country, from car-derived vans to 18 tonne trucks and everything in between.

“We have six 18 tonne curtainside trucks on contract hire from GUS Commercials because we like the flexibility which that offers,” says company director Alex Maguire. “If we need a truck for a day, a week, a month or a year or more, GUS Commercials

are quick to accommodate us.

“The service we get from GUS Commercials cannot be faulted.

They will happily go the extra mile for us, especially at exceptionally busy times such as Christmas or when we take on additional contracts for a six month or

year long term – and we don’t have to worry about service or maintenance of the trucks as that is all taken care of.”

Adds Alex: “If any issues arise, the problem is literally sorted out instantly, which is why we have also bought new vehicles from them. I wouldn’t be giving them a glowing report if our experience of their service and support was otherwise. We can’t speak highly enough of them.”

AM NEXTDAY

PING GROUP

Based in the Port of Larne Business Park, AM Nextday, Pallet Network’s Northern Ireland agent, giving it access to 145 depots throughout GB and a further 30 depots in Ireland. Indeed, the company is one of the largest movers of palletised freight in Ireland.

PING Group, which was established in 2016 as a professional, innovative, neutral ground handling company with its Head Office at Belfast International Airport, has been taking advantage of the service provided by GUS Commercials since day one.

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CONTRACT HIRE

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As an independently owned aircraft and cargo handling company offering a very high standard and portfolio of services, the PING Group also provides what they call multi-model transport solutions through the UK and Europe, operating a fleet of various vehicle types.

Half of their 30-strong fleet is on contract hire with GUS Commercials, mostly 3.5 tonne long wheelbase Sprinters, with a few 3.5 tonne Luton bodied vehicles and three 7.5 tonners. They are employed on the company’s door to door parcel and ‘white glove’ services throughout Northern Ireland.

As a ‘start up’ business five years ago, contract hire offered the company a perfect financial solution and there was no hesitation in opting for the service provided

by GUS Commercials, with three and four year hire packages.

The company’s core business is offering a cargo reception and handling service for a number of

leading long-haul carriers at Belfast International Airport, but it has also diversified into the delivery and distribution sector which meant it had to increase its vehicle fleet.

1 to 18 tonnes, trucks from GUS Commercials are available in a variety of sizes and body types, including box, curtain side, drop side and other tailored solutions.

“GUS Commercials have proved to be a perfect partner for us as far as contract hire is concerned,” says PING Group Managing Director Jonny McKinney. “We can be quite demanding as a customer in terms of expecting readily available vehicles; if they let us down at any point along the way, we need replacements without delay, but happily GUS Commercials have been very reactive, responsive and reliable in that regard.”

Because they have their own dedicated team of engineers looking after the fleet, you can be assured of operational reliability, however, should any issues arise all rentals are backed by an unrivalled 24-hour roadside support service and come with a replacement vehicle guarantee.

Adds Jonny: “Another big benefit is that we don’t have to worry about servicing and maintenance as GUS Commercials take care of all of that; they have an excellent management system in place.”

TAILORED SOLUTIONS With an extensive range of modern commercial vehicles from

an entire fleet can be supplied at a fixed monthly cost for up to five years – and as part of the contract hire package, GUS Commercials will schedule vehicle inspections in accordance with each customers’ O-Licensing requirements, so you are safe in the knowledge that vehicles will be fully road legal and compliant at all times.

Each rental vehicle is maintained to all compliance and safety standards, including PSV/MOT; fridge, F-Gas and tachograph calibrations; LOLER and tail lift weight test certificates, offering you peace of mind.

Short term commercial vehicle hire can be provided on a daily, weekly or monthly basis or for something longer term, they can supply all makes, models and specifications of truck and van on contract hire - or ‘flexi hire’ too.

22 Central Park, Mallusk, Newtownabbey BT36 4FS

Phone: 028 9083 1777 Email: info@guscommercials.com

www.guscommercials.com

Everything from a single vehicle to

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GOLF DAY

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TEEING OFF WITH DENNISONS AT JCB’S EXCLUSIVE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Dennisons recently hosted a day out at the incredible JCB Golf and Country Club in Staffordshire.

Created by internationally renowned Robin Hiseman of European Golf Design, the new 7308-yard par 72 course is certainly a challenge for elite golfers at full distance, while allowing corporate golfers a highly enjoyable experience, as a party of Dennison JCB & Dennison Commercials customers will testify; safe to say all had a thoroughly enjoyable experience.

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The JCB Golf and Country Club reflects the bold, ambitious vision of JCB Chairman Lord Bamford. Spanning 240 acres of rolling countryside, it has been designed and built using industry-leading technology to create aesthetically appealing tee shots, wide, sweeping fairways and interesting, yet fun greens complexes. It dips in and out of the woodlands and seamlessly brings the existing water features into play.

Also on the development is the JCB Golf Academy, a place where students, members and guests of all abilities can learn and

hone their skills in a relaxed yet positive environment. It is equipped with cutting-edge technology and boasts some of the latest video analysis coaching studios and custom fitting technology anywhere in the world.

Nestled within the course, are 10 luxury lodges, available exclusively to members. Each lodge includes four spacious ensuite private bedrooms with views across the course.

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IRISH SEA SHIPPING LINES

FERRY OPERATORS ON THE IRISH SEA PLAYING CRUCIAL ROLE IN DIFFICULT CIRCUMSTANCES With our Ports battling through the impacts of the global Covid-19 pandemic and the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union, trading activity is slowly but surely returning to more normal levels, although there is still a way to go.

Shipping Lines operating on the Irish Sea corridor, of course, have been playing a pivotal role in that recovery and continue to adjust to meet the ever demanding requirements of transport operators in what remains a difficult and highly competitive sector.

More so than ever before, customers are seeking not only the best possible rates, but also convenient crossing schedules and a service that they can depend on in these most trying of times.

With an ever increasing shortage of drivers, and the need for social distancing, unaccompanied freight continues to gain momentum, with shipping lines rising to the demand.

Over the next few pages, we look at how ferry operators are playing a key role in keeping the sector moving and the supply chain in tact despite the challenges.

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P&O FERRIES SUPPORTING CUSTOMERS ON THE IRISH SEA P&O Ferries is amongst the leading ferry providers on the Irish Sea. The rapid Larne to Cairnryan route includes two of the company’s fastest 21,000-ton freight ships, the European Causeway and its younger sister, the European Highlander.

Taking just two hours, the crossing is by far the quickest and most efficient way to ship freight to and from Scotland, with an integrated end-to-end product offering providing fast, reliable and flexible links to growing markets and international supply chains.

Eighty-eight weekly crossings deliver the most frequent service on the Irish Sea, with existing capacity for seamless expansion to 92 sailings, should this be required to facilitate customer demand.

Following this year’s successful dry dock, an array of improvements have been made to enhance the comfort and the experience of

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passengers onboard its vessels.

These include a fully refurbished driver restaurant with additional capacity for driver dining, free Wi-Fi, a new, highly popular carvery station and refreshed menu.

the route is part of a critical supply chain that handles vital supplies for use in the healthcare sector, energy industry and food supply chain.

In recognition of their tireless hard work, P&O is also offering a 20 percent discount to freight drivers in onboard shops.

P&O Ferries continues with its single occupancy offer whilst also allowing drivers who arrive in the same vehicles, along with those pre-approved by their company, to share a single cabin.

Simultaneously, P&O Ferries’ Dublin to Liverpool route connects two cities - both cultural and economic powerhouses - enabling the transportation of goods in just eight hours. Operated by a fleet of four robust ships, including its ROPAX ships, Norbank and Norbay,

With the support of its parent company, DP World, it is committed to improving and expanding trading infrastructure between the UK and Ireland, enabling families and freight to move easily and affordably between Britain, Ireland, and continental Europe.

Its operations on the Irish Sea are central to delivering such a future.

The aforementioned changes highlight P&O’s ability to adapt quickly and comprehensively in response to customer’s priorities.

“P&O are capable of taking on any challenge, irrespective its size or complexity. As we emerge from Covid-19, supply chains will continue to become even more global, crossing borders and traversing jurisdictions.

“Amidst regulatory change and political uncertainties, we are uniquely positioned to use our deep sector knowledge in support of customers operating on the Irish Sea, helping them to navigate complex supply chain challenges, drive efficiency and eliminate waste.”

IMPROVING SERVICES AND MEETING DEMAND FOR DRIVERS ON THE IRISH SEA pofreight.com

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IRISH SEA SHIPPING LINES

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FLEXIBLE STENA LINE RISES TO CHALLENGES To date, 2021 has thrown up a record number of challenges for the ferry industry including the unique combination of the COVID-19 pandemic and the continuing unfurling of Brexit related issues, some expected and some not so. At Stena Line the key phrase this year has been flexibility, in particular, flexibility of fleet deployment.

With the enforced reduction of nonessential travel during the pandemic, a spotlight was put on the freight and logistics sector as never before, and the industry responded well.

Keeping essential supply lines open into Northern Ireland was a responsibility Stena Line and other operators took very seriously indeed. Establishing and maintaining safe and compliant working environments for customers and staff onboard and in port became a priority for Stena Line.

Despite the ever-changing rules and prevailing public health advice in different regions of the UK, Ireland and France, Stena Line maintained a laser focus on ensuring all parts of its business operated to the highest safety standards.

It is fair to say that the implementation of Brexit from 1st January this year caused a fundamental shift in traffic flows rarely seen previously as the logistics industry sought to mitigate against the worst impacts of Brexit in terms of delays and bureaucracy impacting on already tight delivery schedules. Virtually overnight the priority to go direct from mainland Europe to Ireland, circumventing UK Brexit protocols and regulations, became a business reality and Stena Line reacted swiftly to the emerging increase in demand by adding extra tonnage to its Rosslare – Cherbourg service.

Since the start of the year market distortions cause by Brexit have reduced and traditional traffic flows now between the UK and Ireland have reverted to near norm, the exceptions being the Holyhead to Dublin and Rosslare – Fishguard routes, where volumes still remain below pre-Brexit levels. The challenges for Stena Line have been formidable this year

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but as Freight Commercial Manager (Irish Sea) Anna Breen says, it’s all about listening to what customers want and having the ability to change fast. “Looking back over the last 6-9 months it has been remarkable to see the amount of change our business has undergone and the pace at which we were able to plan and implement those changes.

As one of Europe’s leading ferry companies, Stena Line was perhaps uniquely placed to leverage its substantial route network and fleet of vessels to ensure that it was operating at the maximum level of efficiency in the areas of greatest demand requested by our customers.

“Moving vessels and crews to the point of demand can be a complex operation but having a highly experienced team of experts onboard and ashore enable us to quickly plan and deliver the tonnage to where it was required most. For me the key to our achievements in the first 6 months of this year was flexibility.

“Keeping pace with and sometimes foreseeing where the changes were required has been extremely well received by our customers and as their feedback has shown, at a critical time for the logistics industry, Stena Line played a key role in keeping the sector moving despite the enormous challenges, an achievement we are very proud of.”

New Concerns As we move into the second half of the year new challenges have emerged for the industry including driver shortages, estimated currently at over 100, 000 of a shortfall across the UK and Ireland and the ever-increasing

rise in demand for unaccompanied traffic.

A recent report has shown that approximately 71% of freight traffic into Ireland is currently unaccompanied and that figure is expected to rise. As a port owner and operator, this trend in the market presents Stena Line with a number of challenges, not least managing the potential for port congestion, which can have a detrimental impact across the sector in terms of delays and reduced efficiency levels. Stena Line is actively engaging with the haulage industry to help manage and improve traffic flows through its ports in a bid to maintain punctuality and reliability, cornerstones metrics of any successful logistics operation.

When the prevailing public health advice permits, Stena Line plans to revert back to its normal shared cabin policy for drivers, but in the meantime, the company will continue to operate its pandemic policy of providing single cabin occupancy only, unless drivers travel together in the same vehicle, then they can share.

To help ease capacity issues, Stena Line is also planning to move two RoPax vessels to its Rosslare-Cherbourg route, with the Stena Viga adding additional cabin capacity, and the Stena Foreteller will also provide additional unaccompanied trailer capacity on the Belfast-Liverpool service.

Sustainability For the remainder of this year and for years to come, sustainability will be a central focus for Stena Line embodied in its ship livery…

Connecting Europe for a Sustainable Future.

Stena Line is committed to becoming a leader in sustainable shipping. One of the key strategic focuses of the company is to lead the transformation towards emission free shipping in an industry characterised by equality and diversity. This will be an evolutionary process in which Stena Line continues to invest time and resources to help achieve its vision for the future, the work continues apace.

I RISH F ERRIES F R E I G H T

I RISH F ERRIES F R E I G H T

SHIPPING NEWS

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Stena Line Supports Mental Health Bus Stena Line has joined with the 5asideCHESS Battling Suicide Bus initiative on the Northern Ireland leg of its UK tour which included attendance at the Breaker Breaker Truck Show.

The show was a fundraising event in aid of Men’s Mental Health, in particular lorry drivers, to raise awareness among this profession and men’s health in general, which took place at Nutts Corner recently.

Diane Waldron, a volunteer with the 5asideCHESS Battling Suicide Bus said: “We have taken the bus all around the UK in an attempt to help with the epidemic of loneliness and isolation which has developed in recent years, especially so during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Diane added: “During the pandemic research has shown that in almost every region of the UK, mental ill health has been on the rise causing high levels of depression and sometimes, to suicide. On the bus, amongst other practical support materials, we use a small game of 5asideCHESS as a tool to help get people connecting and talking, which is a very important first step.

“I would like to commend Stena Line for their support in enabling us to bring the bus to Belfast. We received a very positive response at the Breaker Breaker event in Belfast and a high level of engagement.

Our 5asideCHESS sets are a selfhelp ice breaking tool to help people to connect with others and

to develop social and life skills. This is important especially with those people who feel under pressure and lonely at this difficult time.”

Stena Line provided transport for the bus to and from Northern Ireland as well as supporting members of the group to engage with its passengers and crew to promote the work of the mental health charity.

Anna Breen, Stena Line’s Freight Commercial Manager (Irish Sea) said: “We were delighted to have the opportunity to work with and support the 5asideCHESS Battling Suicide Bus initiative, especially at the Breaker Breaker Truck Event which was well attended by many of the truckers we work with on a daily basis and their families.

“We all know the stresses and strains which have been put on

people in the last 18 months. The commercial driving community has been experiencing its own issues in recent months so any opportunity to help shine a light on these and provide some practical support is one we wholeheartedly endorse at Stena Line. I’ll like to congratulate Diane and her term on this very important initiative, and we look forward to working with them again in the future.”

P&O Ferries’ Pride of Rotterdam Hosts Frontline Workers Day Celebration P&O Ferries recently hosted a successful ‘thank you’ event onboard the Pride of Rotterdam to mark the nation’s first ever NHS, Social Care & Frontline Workers Day on 5 July.

The new day of gratitude, thanks and remembrance will be held annually and was celebrated at events across Britain to raise funds for the NHS Charities Together and National Care Association.

Onboard Pride of Rotterdam, the sold out celebration paid tribute to the sacrifices made by so many during the Covid-19 pandemic, with a national toast to frontline workers followed by a clap for heroes. Many activities and entertainment acts were on offer for attendees to enjoy, including steel drums, arts and crafts, afternoon tea and balloon modelling. Attendees also had the

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opportunity to win one of five mini cruises up for grabs in a charity raffle, the proceeds of which will be donated to NHS Charities Together and the National Care Association.

determined to make a positive economic and societal impact wherever we work, with community engagement, ethics and wellbeing at the heart of our sustainability strategy.

With the event selling out more than a month in advance, all NHS, social care and frontline workers who registered for a ticket were able to attend free of charge.

“Throughout Covid-19, the dedication and hard work of freight drivers enabled us to keep essential goods - including food, vaccines and medical supplies - moving at a time of national crisis. With the support of our parent company DP World, which is continually investing in UK infrastructure, we will continue to facilitate the reliable flow of goods between the UK and Europe, enabling businesses to bounce back as the world emerges from the pandemic.”

Stephen Gainey, Operations Manager at P&O Ferries, said: “This event provided a wonderful opportunity to reflect and remember, whilst celebrating the service of frontline workers in Hull and beyond. At P&O Ferries, we are

NEWS

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New Citroën ë-Relay officially launched in the UK Citroën’s biggest and most capacious 100%-electric van has been officially launched in the UK. New ë-Relay joins the award-winning Citroën ë-Dispatch in the brand’s extensive LCV line-up.

By the end of the year, customers will also be able to order the most compact electric van in the Citroën range – the eagerly anticipated ë-Berlingo Van. Which means from Quarter 4 of this year, fleet and business customers will be able to choose the compact, medium or large Citroën van that best meets their needs – and then opt to have it delivered with an efficient all-electric powertrain.

New 100%-electric ë-Relay is available exclusively in well-appointed ‘Enterprise’ trim, and is

available in Panel Van, Window Van or Chassis Cab configurations – meeting the needs of the vast majority of business and fleet operators.

Panel Van versions are available in L2 (5,413mm), L3 (5,998mm) and L4 (6,363mm) lengths, while the Window Van is offered exclusively in L4 form. Chassis Cabs are available in the popular L3 length. With up to 15m3 of load volume and 1,150kg of payload, new ë-Relay really does offer outstanding practicality and versatility.

Customers have the choice of two Lithium-

ion battery packs, a 37kWh option connected to a 120hp (90kW) electric motor available exclusively in the L2 Panel Van, or a 70kWh battery unit connected to the same 120hp (90kW) motor for all other body types. The 37kWh battery provides a WLTP certified range of up to 73 miles in the L2 Panel Van, while the 70kWh battery increases range up to 139 miles under WLTP testing for L3 and L4 variants.

With zero tailpipe emissions, the new 100%-electric ë-Relay is exempt from current Congestion and Ultra Low Emissions Zone charges, and attracts a 0% company van tax rate.

All new Citroën ë-Relay models come with a Type-2 charging cable as standard, supporting charging of up to 22kW. A full charge from a 7kW wallbox unit will take six and 12 hours respectively, for the 37kWh and 70kWh versions. Both variants also support up to 50kW rapid charging. All battery units enjoy an eight-year/100,000mile warranty for added peace of mind.

New Citroën ë-Relay models come as standard with a five-inch colour touchscreen, DAB radio and satellite navigation, plus a new rear-view mirror that contains a small display with key vehicle information such as battery charge level and remaining range.

MAXUS reports 400% increase in sales For the first time ever, the CV Show showcased an all-electric LCV stand as MAXUS delivered an electric experience for visitors, featuring the new platform e DELIVER 3 and the larger e DELIVER 9 models.

Later this year MAXUS will introduce another variant to the e DELIVER 9 family in the form of a short wheelbase LCV. While the variant didn’t make an appearance at CV Show, it will be available to order from Q4 2021.

A key highlight of this year’s show, visitors could check out nine MAXUS EV variants including an e DELIVER 3 fridge and EV SWB Dropsider (52.5kWh) in advance of the launch of the allnew e DELIVER 3 long wheelbase chassis, which will be available in the UK and Ireland in Q1 2022.

Speaking at the CV Show, Mark Barrett, General Manager of Harris MAXUS said: “EVs are a common sight on our roads today, which is why MAXUS decided to exclusively showcase a purely electric fleet at this year’s CV Show.

“Over 54% of MAXUS sales so far this year are electric and with all eyes firmly on the future of motoring, we wanted to give people the option to explore what electric driving might mean for them during a visit to our stand. At MAXUS dealerships, we provide business owners and fleet managers with a realistic evaluation of where they are on their journey to greener motoring and what they need to do next.

“We wanted to bring this service to the CV Show too, so that

people can equip themselves with the right information for their business - some may be ready to make the switch, others may need to put policies and infrastructure in place before making the move and MAXUS provides a step-bystep guide to ensure that move is as seamless as possible.”

MAXUS has had its best year ever thanks to several significant fleet deals and is currently forecasting a 400% increase in sales in the UK by the end of 2021 (v 2020).

Businesses, primarily in the grocery, retail, pharmaceutical and delivery

sectors, have been seeking out MAXUS for a new suite of vehicles in recent months. These deals, and the many other business enquiries that MAXUS has received in recent months is proof that businesses large and small are getting serious about going electric.

In other positive news, MAXUS has increased its network of dealerships in the UK this year by 40%, with over 40 dealerships now located around the UK – and growing (50 including service dealers), with a target to reach 80 service points.

2022 will see MAXUS build even further on its great range of commercial vehicles with the launch of a seven-seater combi van. Work is also underway to test the market feasibility for a MAXUS Intelligent Flexible Architecture (MIFA) platform seven-seater, fully electric MPV. Mark Barrett confirmed that MIFA would enable EV to be used across the MAXUS range to suit various applications including SUV and MPV. MAXUS is also exploring the feasibility of introducing a midsized pick-up truck, the ET90, to the market. Other vehicles currently being considered for right hand drive markets include an EV mini bus, a range of medium to heavy duty track including an EV tractor unit, which would move the brand beyond the LCV sector and into heavy duty vehicles.

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Orders open for Vauxhall’s All-New Movano-e and Movano Vauxhall has announced pricing and specification for the All-New Movano and the 100% electric Movano-e. The all-electric Movano-e joins Vauxhall’s best-selling Vivaro-e and the award-winning Combo-e, with fleets and businesses now able to choose the electric van that best meets their needs.

As of 2028, Vauxhall will only offer fully electric cars and vans in the UK. With the introduction of the all-electric Movano-e and Combo-e LCVs, Vauxhall will offer fully electric vans across its range by the end of 2021.

Vauxhall is the UK’s the best-selling electric Light Commercial Vehicle manufacturer, with 1,487 allelectric vans sold so far this year.

The large Movano and Movano-e feature the latest safety and driver assistance systems. For the first time, the models feature a rear vision camera system which gives a live feed to the driver, helping them detect pedestrians and other road users. A blind spot monitoring system is also new to the Movano range, while a lane departure warning system is also available.

As the largest vehicle in Vauxhall’s portfolio, the Movano is available in three different lengths and three heights. It comes with a maximum payload up to 2,110kg and a load volume of 17m3 – the equivalent of five Euro pallets.

Ideal for trade professionals, there are 150 different versions of the Movano available via Vauxhall’s conversion specialists.

Paul Willcox, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: “With class-leading practicality and payload, alongside

the latest safety features and technology, the All-New Movano and Movano-e are set to make an immediate impact in the largeLCV sector. Vauxhall is leading the electrification of the UK van market and is all about democratising access to electrified vehicles.”

Featuring a 90kW (120PS) and 260Nm electric motor, the Movano-e is available with a 70kWh battery, featuring up to 139 miles respectively under WLTP testing, making it perfect for urban environments, such as last-mile deliveries, and the open road. Like Vauxhall’s other fully electric LCV models, Movano-e

is exempt from current ultra-low and congestion charge payments.

The zero emissions powertrain also allows businesses to save significantly on company van tax, with a 0% Benefit-in-Kind tax rate.

All-New Movano is also available with a powerful, durable and efficient diesel engine option. The state-of-the-art 2.2-litre unit meets strict Euro 6.3 / Euro 6d emissions regulations and is available with a range of power outputs, from 140PS to 165PS and with torque figures of between 300Nm and 370Nm. All versions of the engines feature a six-speed manual gearbox and front-wheel drive.

The All-New Movano and Movano-e are available in Dynamic and Edition trim levels. The All-New Movano is available in Panel Van, Chassis Cab and Crew Cab configurations in L2H1, L2H2, L3H1, L3H2, L4H2 and L4H3 lengths and heights, while the all-electric Movano-e is exclusively available in Panel Van configuration in Dynamic trim only in either L3H2 or L4H2 lengths.

All Movano-e models come standard with front fog lights and a painted radiator grille in the chosen body colour. Inside, the All-New Movano-e models feature DAB radio with Bluetooth®, Vauxhall Connect that alerts emergency and breakdown services in the instance of an accident or breakdown, as well as a full steel bulkhead.

The passenger side also comes with a foldable, rotating tray – ideal for setting up a laptop or other work items. The glovebox also contains a tablet holder.

Movano-e models also come standard with Vauxhall’s rear park assist, as well as pedestrian detection rear warning sound – which alerts drivers when pedestrians cross behind the van.

All-New Movano Edition variants come standard with DAB radio and Vauxhall Connect. All models also get a one-sided sliding door, full steel bulkhead and seat belt reminders.

Dynamic models add DAB radio with Bluetooth, as well as a foldable, rotating tray to the passenger bench and a tablet holder inside the glove box. AllNew Movano Dynamic models also feature Vauxhall’s pedestrian detection rear warning sound and rear parking assist for improved safety and manoeuvrability.

Unique battery technology keeps Fiat Professional’s E-Ducato on the road for longer The new Fiat E-Ducato is the only light commercial vehicle on the market featuring an innovative battery architecture that further boosts the already renowned reliability of the Ducato LCV family.

Developed by Fiat Professional engineers, the fully electric van’s Recovery Mode is an industry-first feature that characterises the unique parallel batteries’ set-up. This technology allows the E-Ducato to continue the journey even if one of its battery modules drop out.

pick up the slack so drivers can continue their journey. This also ensures that drivers are not missing out on their working day.

Working in contrast to how battery packs work in alternative electric LCVs, should one of the battery modules drop out in E-Ducato, then the other modules will automatically

Connecting the batteries in parallel means that the current flow cannot stop because the current is taken from each individual battery.

The E-Ducato has three to five battery modules depending on the size of battery fitted. The 47kWh and 79kWh batteries both come with Recovery Mode as standard.

Kickstarting the Fiat brand’s foray into 100

per cent electric vehicles, the E-Ducato has a range of between 113 and 230 miles, depending on the variant. It is congestion charge and ULEZ-exempt, making it the perfect tool for businesses in both urban and suburban environments.

Like its internal combustion engine counterparts, E-Ducato receives a bestin-class payload of up to 1,950kg and maintains the same volumes of between 10m3 and 17m3 meaning there is an E-Ducato for every eventuality.

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Ford’s All-Electric E-Transit Makes Show Debut Ford’s E-Transit commercial vehicle will, say the manufacturer, provide businesses with a new benchmark for electric vehicle productivity, value and ownership experience when it comes to market next year, as the production vehicle made its European public debut at the CV Show 2021 in Birmingham.

Ford also announced that E-Transit would be highly competitively priced in the marketplace, to help accelerate adoption of electric vehicles, with pricing starting from £42,695 (excluding VAT) as order books open from October.

first E‑Transit customer deliveries in spring 2022.

Vehicle charging is a critical element for businesses adopting electric vehicles, and Ford is providing a comprehensive package to support customers with their needs for depot, home and public charging.

The new E-Transit is a key part of Ford Pro – the manufacturer’s new worldwide sales and servicing business centred around improving commercial vehicle customers’ productivity with cutting-edge products and services.

“E-Transit is going to be a quantum leap for commercial vehicle operators. New connected services and advanced technologies will streamline customers’ businesses and supercharge their productivity as they make the move to fully-electric fleets,” said Hans Schep, general manager, Commercial Vehicles, Ford of Europe. “With pricing designed to remove any barrier to entry, E‑Transit is a truly compelling proposition for European businesses.”

The Ford E-Transit is designed to satisfy a wide range of customer use-cases, with a 68kWh usable battery capacity as standard, providing a best-in-class targeted driving range of up to 196 miles WLTP. 1 True Transit capability is delivered by the powerful motor offering 430Nm of torque (with a choice of 135kW or 198kW maximum output), payloads up to 1,758kg 2 on

the van model, and a comprehensive range of 25 variants with van, double-cab-in-van and chassis cab body styles with multiple lengths and roof heights and GVMs from 3.5 to 4.25 tonnes.

For maximum on-site productivity, operators can specify exportable power via the unique ProPower Onboard feature, which delivers up to 2.3kW from standard plug sockets in the cab and load area, to power tools, lights, laptops and conversions such as refrigeration units.

Following a punishing global testing and development programme, E-Transit is kicking off a programme of trials with customer partners across Europe to demonstrate the productivity benefits of electrified commercial vehicles and help refine the operator experience ahead of the

This service will be led by a dedicated team of Ford Pro charging specialists available to guide customers in Ford’s major European markets through vehicle choice and the implementation of charging infrastructure, commencing in October. The depot charging solution will include both hardware and installation, as well as smart software tools to enable businesses to schedule and optimise their vehicle charging.

Through Ford Telematics, fleets can seamlessly manage the payment of public charging using the Ford charging network, as well as the reimbursement of employees who charge vehicles at home. Drivers can also easily locate, access and bill for charging while on the road using the Ford Charge Assist app integrated into E-Transit’s SYNC 4 system and accessible via the 12‑inch touchscreen.

The E-Transit can charge from 15 per cent to 80 per cent in 34 minutes from a 115kW DC fast charger. An overnight full charge from a standard 230-volt AC supply takes just over eight hours.

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SMARTER. STRONGER. SAFER.

SMARTER. STRONGER. SAFER.

02871860601 WWW.EAKINBROS-ISUZU.CO.UK EAKIN BROTHERS LTD STRONGER. SAFER. All fuel consumption emission values are based on the new WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) test cycle whichSMARTER. uses real-world driving data.

8 Carrakeel Drive,and Maydown, County Londonderry BT47 6UQ Official fuel economy for the standard Isuzu D-Max range in MPG (l/100km): Low 25.1 – 27.6 (10.2 - 11.2). Mid 31.4 - 36.4 (7.8 – 9.0). High 36.0 - 39.4 (7.2 – 7.8).

02871860601 WWW.EAKINBROS-ISUZU.CO.UK Extra-High 29.0 – 30.8 (9.2 – 9.7). Combined 30.7 - 33.6 (8.4 - 9.2). CO2 emissions 220 - 241g/km.

All fuel consumption emission values are based on the new WLTP (Worldwide 8 Carrakeel Drive, and Maydown, County Londonderry BT47 6UQ Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) test cycle which uses real-world driving data.

†Fromfuel priceeconomy shown is anfor Isuzu D-Max 4x4 Single Cab vehicle the road with manual transmission.

Model shown in image is a Isuzu D-Max Double Commercial the road price of Official the standard Isuzu D-Maxonrange inprice MPG (l/100km): Low 25.1 – 27.6 (10.2 - 11.2).

Mid 31.4V-Cross - 36.4 (7.8Cab – 9.0).

High vehicle 36.0 -on39.4 (7.2 – 7.8). £31,249.00 with manual transmission. All prices shown include delivery, number plates, 12 months road fund licence and first registration fee, excludes VAT and mica/metallic paint finish. The All-New Isuzu Extra-High 29.0 – 30.8 (9.2 – 9.7). Combined 30.7 - 33.6 (8.4 - 9.2). CO2 emissions 220 - 241g/km.

All fuel D-Max consumption emission values are basedmodel. on the new (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) test cycle which uses real-world driving data. is Smarterand Stronger Safer compared to previous Terms andWLTP conditions apply. †From priceeconomy shown is anfor Isuzu D-Max 4x4 Single Cab D-Max vehicle onrange the road with manual transmission.

Model shown in image is a Isuzu Double Commercial vehicle -on39.4 the road price of Official fuel the standard Isuzu in price MPG (l/100km): Low 25.1 – 27.6 (10.2 - 11.2).

MidD-Max 31.4V-Cross - 36.4 (7.8 Cab – 9.0).

High 36.0 (7.2 – 7.8). £31,249.00 with manual transmission.

All prices shown number 12 months fund licence and first registration fee, excludes VAT and mica/metallic paint finish. The All-New Isuzu Extra-High 29.0 – 30.8 (9.2 – 9.7). Combined 30.7 include - 33.6 delivery, (8.4 - 9.2).

CO2plates, emissions 220road - 241g/km.

D-Max is Smarter Stronger Safer compared to previous model. Terms and conditions apply.

Driven ToIsuzu Do Dealer Half4x4 PageSingle Ads_2.indd 8 †From 32285 price Isuzu shown is an D-Max Cab vehicle on the road price with manual transmission. Model shown in image is a Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Double Cab Commercial vehicle on the road price of £31,249.00 with manual transmission. All prices shown include delivery, number plates, 12 months road fund licence and first registration fee, excludes VAT and mica/metallic paint finish. The All-New Isuzu D-Max is Smarter Stronger Safer compared to previous model. Terms and conditions apply.

32285 Isuzu Driven To Do Dealer Half Page Ads_2.indd 8

32285 Isuzu Driven To Do Dealer Half Page Ads_2.indd 8

26/02/2021 16:23

26/02/2021 16:23

26/02/2021 16:23

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FORD TRANSIT CONNECT ACTIVE DELIVERS ON ALL COUNTS

Ford’s Transit Connect has always been a popular small van choice since it was first launched some years back, and the latest Active lifestyle model takes it to another level, as Van Ireland’s Phil Eaglestone has been finding out.

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Courtesy of Trust Ford at Mallusk, we had the opportunity to put the Ford Transit Connect Active through its paces over the course of a few days, and we weren’t disappointed.

This Transit Connect has come a long way in its evolution, with additional innovations and enhancements making it even more attractive to SMEs and others. It drives, handles and performs much like a family saloon car; indeed, you will find many of its features in Ford’s car range.

It also offers excellent fuel efficiency, thanks to its 1.5-litre EcoBlue TDCi turbodiesel 120hp engine, which combines the latest fuel injection, turbocharging and emissioncontrol technologies, matched to a smooth performing six-speed manual gearbox.

During the time we had the vehicle, we travelled quite a few miles taking in motorway driving, busy town centres and narrow country roads, covering virtually every possible scenario, so we soon discovered just how far a tank of diesel goes.

Versatile and practical, it offers a comfortable ride, but perhaps more importantly for the likes of a busy tradesman, it offers good loadcarrying capability with a payload of up to 982 kg – an increase of 79 kg over previous versions – and with wide opening low level rear and side doors, loading up is made easy. There’s also plenty of storage space in the cab for all your paperwork and other bits and pieces.

It looks good on the road, too, with its smart front-end appearance that adopts the latest Ford design DNA. Apart from an imposing threebar Transit grille that combines with slimmer headlamps and a more aerodynamic lower fascia and front spoiler with powerful HID Xenon lamps and LED daytime running lights, it also features body colour front and rear bumpers, bodyside mouldings, door handles and door mirrors – oh, yes, and let’s not overlook the standout 16” alloy wheels.

Inside our Transit Connect Active, an upgraded cab features a revised instrument panel with a new central control area that incorporates a floating, tablet-inspired 6-inch colour touchscreen, featuring Ford’s SYNC 3 communications and

entertainment system. New trim materials provide a stylish and hard-wearing working environment for long working days in the cab.

Driver Assist Features Also noteworthy is a comprehensive range of segment-first driver assistance features – some standard, others optional - including Intelligent Speed Limiter that enables automatic adjustment of maximum vehicle speed to remain within legal limits, the Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection emergency braking system, Side Wind Stabilisation, and Active Park Assist that helps to steer the vehicle into both parallel and perpendicular parking spaces.

It also comes with Auto Stop-Start, now a common feature in many cars and SUVs; when you stop at traffic lights or your vehicle is idling in a queue, Auto StartStop can automatically switch off the Engine, while still supplying power to essentials like the headlights, air-conditioning, radio and the Ford SYNC system. When you’re ready to move, just depress the clutch and select first gear as usual, and the system restarts.

Auto Start-Stop is particularly effective in city streets, where it can potentially help to reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.

Other driver comfort and safety features include a reversing camera, rear parking distance sensors, automatic headlights and rain-sensing

wipers, cruise control with adjustable speed limiter in addition to Electronic Stability Control, which is designed to help you maintain control in extreme driving conditions. It senses when you are deviating from your chosen line and aims to keep you on track by automatically regulating braking and engine output.

Its Emergency Brake Assist feature, meanwhile, is designed to recognise an emergency braking situation and increases the pressure within the braking system to provide optimum stopping power, while Load Adaptive Control is designed to adjust the responses of the ESC system to compensate when the vehicle is unladen, partially- or fully-laden.

There is a lot more to this van than we have space to mention; suffice to say it enjoys a very high spec that provides a comfortable, spacious and safe working environment; hats off to Ford for coming up trumps again, it certainly delivers on all counts.

Verdict So, if it’s a van you want to be practical, versatile and image enhancing for your business during the working week and one that can double up to carry your mountain bikes or other outdoor leisure pursuits gear at the week-ends, you won’t go too far wrong with the Ford Transit Connect Active. But that’s only our opinion, take it out for a test drive to see if it lives up to expectations; we are pretty sure you won’t be disappointed.

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Knock-On Effect of Pandemic Sees Irish Imports Enter Uncharted Waters Woodland Group Ireland, one of the country’s leading freight forwarding and supply chain companies, has reported steep price hikes and acute delays for Irish businesses shipping from Asia.

Since October 2020, shipping rates out of Asia have seen a 450% increase. The main source of the surge is due to demand far exceeding capacity, with the industry experiencing reduced vessel, routing, and equipment availability.

The situation has been exacerbated by an array of factors: originally set off by outbreak of Covid19 causing cancelled sailings and containers wrongly positioned in US & Europe. The situation was further impacted by the Suez Canal blockage and severe congestion to Southern China ports due to renewed Covid-19 outbreaks.

The effect has been significant, resulting in severe disruptions, causing widespread shipment delays with material shortages and great increases in cost as a result for global supply chains, Irish businesses, importers, exporters and has even reached the Irish end consumer.

Comments Kevin Brady, Director of Global Business Development at the Woodland Group: “The situation is unprecedented. While we are proud that despite these challenges, we have successfully delivered an 85% success rate in FCL (Full Container Load) liftings compared to the average market rate of 50%-60% and have offered

to the increase in shipping costs resulting in overall cost increase of between 10-15% to the Irish importer • Tiles/stoneware: 5-10% increase in raw material costs added to the increase in shipping costs resulting in overall cost increase of between 25-30% to the Irish importer • Doors: 10-15% increase in raw material costs added to the increase in shipping costs resulting in overall cost increase of between 20-40% to the Irish importer an alternative to FCL for customers through our weekly LCL (less than container load) offering, the impact on the industry and long-term effect is putting significant pressure on everyone importing from Asia and connected supply chains.

“There is no quick fix, and we can expect current rate levels to carry on through to at least CNY 2022, while monitoring the situation closely and finding the best possible solutions as we go.”

Research Paper Woodland Group Ireland is currently preparing a research paper on the impact on imported goods from Asia into Ireland. Feedback received so far from Irish clients

across five main commodity groups reports a sharp increase in the cost of raw materials as well as a significant rise in shipping costs.

Example of such increases: • Bathroom/sanitary ware: 5-12% increase in raw material costs added to the increase in shipping costs resulting in overall cost increase of between 25-30% to the Irish importer • Outside furniture: 10-15% increase in raw material costs added to the increase in shipping costs resulting in overall cost increase of between 25-35% to the Irish importer • Lighting fixtures: 5-8% increase in raw material costs added

Looking into the future, solutions are lacking, and concerns are increasing. Further outbreaks of COVID-19 remain a worry, with higher shipping costs, delays and a shortage of equipment expected.

Unfortunately for customers, it is not anticipated that these issues will be resolved in the short-term.

Feedback from Woodland’s Asia teams is that the present situation could result in shortages ahead of Christmas and into the New Year (2022). Retailers purchase seasonal goods from China months in advance, however, the level of backlogs and disruptions will continue to impact importing capacity and thus availability of certain products as we near the holidays.

Mass improvements reported from hauliers adopting post pandemic digital processes More than half of hauliers have benefitted from digital transformation according to research carried out by leading transport management software provider Mandata.

Mandata conducted the survey with logistics and haulage operators to help identify the biggest challenges currently facing the industry.

concerning after recent events. Mandata has compiled together the answers to support business growth and success to help the sector deliver more value utilising digital channels.

digital solutions, this will remove duplication of operational processes and give businesses better visibility over business performance, driving greater workforce efficiency.

Ranging from fleet sizes of 30–200, the study found that respondents’ main priority is to help reduce the number of manual processes with the help of digital adoption, but a lack of technical knowledge has become a barrier in adopting this new way of working.

While some are afraid of the daunting task of turning digital, Mandata found that 55% of its customers have been able to save 10 hours a week on manual job entries by implementing a transport management system highlighting the key benefits of making the switch to digital.

“Digital innovation is fuelling change in the road transport sector, but businesses that don’t adapt and prioritise these changes are at risk of falling behind. Repetitive processes are impacting hauliers’ operations, and consequently, their cash flow is also affected. The research we have conducted and presented in a whitepaper will help answer many questions businesses have and help improve operational priorities.”

30% of hauliers said their biggest concern since the COVID-19 pandemic is their inability to work remotely, which is extremely

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Steve Spark, Chief Revenue Officer said, “As industry leaders, we have a responsibility to help our customers succeed and deliver on promises made. By implementing dedicated

NEWS

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Customs Declaration Service to become UK’s single customs platform HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has announced that the Customs Declaration Service (CDS), a system founded on world-leading technology, will serve as the UK’s single customs platform from 31 March 2023.

HMRC will be closing its Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system on 31 March 2023.

From this date, all businesses will need to declare goods through the Customs Declaration Service (CDS).

CDS is currently used for Northern Ireland and Rest of World declarations and has already processed more than one million declarations since it went live in 2018.

Ahead of the 31 March 2023 complete closure, services on CHIEF will be withdrawn in two stages: • 30 September 2022: import declarations close on CHIEF • 31 March 2023: export declarations close on CHIEF / National Exports System (NES) Sophie Dean and Katherine Green, Directors General for Borders and Trade at HMRC, said: “CDS is a key part of the government’s plans for a world-leading fully digitised border that will help UK businesses to trade and to prosper.

“This announcement will provide clarity for traders and the border industry. We are committed to making the switchover as smooth as possible and are working to ensure traders are fully supported with the new processes.

“CDS has been developed over a number of years in consultation with the border industry and will provide a more secure and stable platform that has the capacity and capability to grow in line with the government’s ambitious trade plans. The move to one system for all imports and exports will also deliver savings for the taxpayer.”

There’s further information on GOV.UK to help businesses and agents prepare for CDS, and there are also a number of live customer support services available.

Sales of the all-new FUSO Canter begin in Britain FUSO has begun sales of the all-new FUSO Canter light-duty truck in Britain. The new model, which incorporates an eye-catching, redesigned cabin, as well as improvements in safety and comfort, is now available to order from Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK dealers across the country.

For decades, the FUSO Canter has been an international hit in the light-duty truck segment due to its class-leading turning circle, high payload and excellent versatility. Since its market launch in 1963, over 4.5 million FUSO Canters have been produced worldwide.

Like its predecessor, the new FUSO Canter is available in four weight classes (3.58.55 tonnes), eight wheelbases (2,500 mm to 4,750 mm), and with three engine output variants (130 hp to 175 hp).

For the first time in Britain, the 3.5-tonne FUSO Canter will be available with a narrower, 1.7m-wide S (standard) cabin, in addition to the established 2.0m width of the C (comfort) cab. Crewcab variants will continue to be offered in several weight classes.

FUSO also provides increased flexibility for bodybuilders with a new wheelbase of 3,400mm for the new-to-the-UK 3S models.

With the newly developed compact exhaust system, the new FUSO Canter meets the EURO VI – STEP E emission standard.

Advanced Design The new Canter features a revised face that combines historical brand cues with a modern design language, connecting form to the functionality of a solid light-duty truck. It also reflects FUSO’s Black Belt design identity, which runs through other vehicles of the Japanese brand’s global product range. The sleek lines of the cabin integrate optional LED headlights and represent a technological and conceptual update after ten years.

Advanced Safety The new Canter can now be ordered with the advanced safety feature Sideguard Assist®.

This detects moving vulnerable road users on the passenger side of the truck through radar sensors. The system emits alerts if it detects any risk of collision when the driver is steering towards the passenger side or has applied the left-turn indicator. The previous model featured Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) and Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS); Sideguard Assist now provides further safety support. Other enhancements include optional LED headlights with 30% better visibility, a new Autolight function, and reinforced rear underrun protection that minimises the impact in the event of an accident.

Advanced Comfort Over the past decades, FUSO has made continuous improvements to its light-duty truck to meet customer needs. Thanks to improved insulation, the new Canter has an impressively low interior noise level. The spacious cab with good all-around visibility allows the driver to manoeuvre easily in the city. The Canter’s low entry height and easy cross-cab access is designed to support truck drivers, especially those engaged in the distribution business.

This new-generation Canter, with its upgraded design, advanced safety features, and improved comfort, will bring another level of quality and efficiency onto European roads.

Production at the FUSO plant in Tramagal, Portugal, is set to begin in December 2021.

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NEW TRUCK SALES SOLD IN NORTHERN IRELAND

Abraham Transport takes delivery of this fantastic new model Volvo FH from Dennison Commercials.

McCloys of Toomebridge with 2 x T High 520 tag axle tractor units delivered by Diamond Trucks.

2 Master Crew Cabs c/w tipping bodies delivered to Ards and North Down Borough Council by Diamond Trucks.

New Terberg RT223 sold by MPM Sales to the Port of Cork.

FRYLITE take delivery of a new S-WAY 4x2 CNG gas truck which will operate on biomethane natural gas from NI Trucks.

MAN 26.470 delivered to H&IJ Gabbie, Crossgar by RK Truck Centres Ltd.

New Tipper Grab for Newline Utilities delivered by Diamond Trucks.

Calor Gas heat things up with their two new Volvo FL trucks delivered by Dennison Commercials.

DAF LF180 sold to Elagh Tree Surgery, L’Derry by TBF Thompson DAF Trucks.

Mourne Freight Services take delivery of a new STRALIS PERFORMER AS440S46TXP from NI Trucks.

MAN 18.250 delivered to Corry Group by RK Truck Centres Ltd.

T High 520 delivered to Chestnutt Animal Feeds, Stranocum, Co. Antrim by Diamond Trucks.

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NEW TRUCK SALES SOLD IN NORTHERN IRELAND

New T High for Transchill delivered by Diamond Trucks.

Super Seal Windows take delivery of the first S-WAY AT260S33YP 6x2 rigid in N Ireland from NI Trucks.

MAN 26.640 delivered to McCaffrey Transport by RK Truck Centres Ltd.

DAF LF290 sold to Ace Bates Skip Hire Ltd, Belfast by TBF Thompson DAF Trucks.

Dennison Commercials wish a big congratulations to family-run business, A.G.Wilson Civil Engineering on their brand-new Volvo FMX 8X4 Tipper.

New C Range for Gibson Brothers delivered by Diamond Trucks.

1 of 4 new Renault T480 6x2 tractor units recently supplied to Henderson Wholesale by Diamond Trucks.

NEW TRUCK SALES FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT

HELEN BEGGS on 07779 713762 GARFIELD HARRISON on 07779 713794 Rea Distribution celebrates 40 years in business and takes delivery of a new S-WAY AS480S48TXP from NI Trucks.

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CLASSIFIEDS

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COMMERCIAL VEHICLE AND TRAILER REPAIRS ANALOGUE AND DIGITAL 12 Ballyrobert Road TACHOGRAPHS Newtownabbey BT36 4TL

ESTD 1937

Tel: 028 9034 2973

Email: office@thomasmccrea.co.uk 12 Ballyrobert Road, Newtownabbey BT36 4TL

Tel: 028 9034 2973

Web: thomasmccrea.co.uk

COMMERCIAL VEHICLE & TRAILER REPAIRS - TACHOGRAPH CENTRE - RECOVERY

Email: office@thomasmccrea.co.uk

Kearns & Murtagh Ltd Tachograph and Road Speed limiter Specialists

Specialising in Hino & Iveco Diagnostic Systems Unit 3a, Derryboy Road, Carnbane Business Park, Lisduff, Newry, Co. Down BT35 6QH T: 028 3026 5720 M: 07831 852014

E: info@kearnsmurtagh.com W: www.kearnsmurtagh.com

ARMAGH LTD

Specialists in Maintenance & Repairs Full Range of Spare Parts Available Approved Tachograph & Speed Limiter Centre Pre-PSV Test Lane Tel: 028 3752 3491 and 028 3752 6393 (stores) Fax: 028 3752 7878 Email: cbtarmagh@gmail.com

APPROVED TACHOGRAPH CENTRE Digital and Analogue Tachographs for All Makes of Trucks info@tbfthompson.com I www.tbfthompsondaf.com

TBF Thompson DAF Trucks 19 Michelin Road I Hydepark Industrial Estate I MALLUSK I BT36 4PT 2 Diviny Drive I Carn Industrial Estate I PORTADOWN I BT63 5WE 6 – 10 Killyvalley Road I GARVAGH I Coleraine I BT51 5JZ

028 9034 2001 028 3839 3300 028 2955 8353



GERALD LYTTLE & SONS COMMERCIAL REPAIRS & TACHOGRAPH CENTRE

ANALOGUE & DIGITAL TACHOGRAPHS for all Vehicles Wabco, Haldex & Knorr-Bremse ABS & EBS 219 DRUM ROAD, COOKSTOWN BT80 9HR

Tel: 028 8675 1261 Fax: 028 8675 1882 Email: alastairlyttle@btconnect.com

RK Trucks Centre

Lisburn Tachograph Centre Analogue & Digital Tachographs

Calibration - Parts - Repairs Trucks - Buses - Vans - Oil Tankers TACHOGRAPHS TO SUIT ALL VEHICLES DIGITAL DOWNLOAD SOLUTIONS Please contact our office for more information T. 028 9264 1676 lisburntacho@btconnect.com www.lisburntachographcentre.com

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DIGITAL & ANALOGUE Approved Tachograph Calibration Centres at: Carryduff, Co. Down T. 028

9081 3600 F. 028 9081 4115

Dungannon, Co. Tyrone T. 028

8772 2111 F. 028 8772 7393

www.rktrucks.com

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PALLETS WANTED Tel: 07778 853566

STANDARD 1000 x 1200

&

EURO

SPECIALIST ANALOGUE & DIGITAL TACHOGRAPH for Scania and all other Manufacturers

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Road Trucks Limited - roadtrucksscania.co.uk http://www.roadtrucksscania.co.uk

SALES, PARTS & SERVICE: Circular Road, Larne BT40 3AB Tel: +44 (0) 28 2827 9611 PARTS & SERVICE feedback.roadtrucks@scania.com

COLLECTION AVAILABLE OR DROP OFF AT SPRUCEFIELD SITE.

PARTS & SERVICE: Gortrush Industrial Estate, Omagh BT78 5LU Tel: +44 (0) 28 8225 9198 feedback.roadtrucks@scania.com

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ROADTRUCKSLTD

http://kaywa.me/BZwN8

www.roadtrucksscania.co.uk Download the Kaywa QR Code Reader (App Store &Android Market) and scan your code!

Kieran Trehy Hydraulics HYDRAULIC PUMPS

• HYDRAULIC PUMPS FOR TIPPERS, CRANES, SKIP LOADERS, CAR RECOVERY UNITS • POWER TAKE OFF UNITS TO SUIT ALL COMMERCIAL VEHICLE GEAR BOXES - EVERY APPLICATION

Serving The Northwest for over 90 Years

Eakin Bros Ltd

• TIPPER KITS FOR ALL COMMERCIAL VEHICLE TRACTORS Contact - Kieran Trehy at: Unit 2, Northern Cross, Business Park, Finglas, Dublin II

TEL: 003531 8644915 / 8443109

www.eakinbrosltd.co.uk

48 Main Street, Claudy Co. Londonderry Tel: 028 7133 8641 Fax: 028 7133 8890

IF YOU ARE READING THIS, SO ARE YOUR POTENTIAL CUSTOMERS!

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE CONTACT US FOR DETAILS:

PHIL EAGLESTONE M: 07515 561446 EXPORT&FREIGHT

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TARGET YOUR AUDIENCE ADVERTISE

We sell parts for

DAF • VOLVO • IVECO • MAN • RENAULT • MERCEDES • SCANIA Armagh 028 3752 5427

HERE If you are reading this, so are your potential customers!

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Phil Eaglestone M: 07515 561446 or T: 028 9268 8888

Newry 028 3083 4884

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www.cmpireland.com MAN | Genuine Parts

McCAUSLAND CAR PARK

MORE QUALITY MORE PERFORMANCE MORE VALUE LESS COST

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see our website for special offers

The NEW valueline from MAN Genuine Parts, Now much more is less.

ITC

RK Trucks & ITC Edgar Road, Carryduff, Belfast, BT8 8NB RK Trucks Tel: 028 9081 3600 Fax: 028 9081 4115 ITC Tel: 028 9081 2186 Fax: 028 9081 7575

Tel: 028 9442 2022

www.rktrucks.com www.internationaltruckcomponents.com

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Fax: 028 8772 7393 ITC Parts: 028 8772 2803 Fax: 028 8772 7393

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Belfast International Airport

126 Tamnamore Road, Dungannon RK Trucks Tel: 028 8772 2111

EXPORT&FREIGHT

Your Parts Partner Belfast 028 90 781230

Portadown 028 38 362555

www.transportsupplies.co.uk

Order before 10am

to guarantee same day delivery provincewide

Transport Supplies now has over 12,000 product lines in stock from all the leading specialist brands. Plus there’s our fast delivery direct to you provincewide as well as free collection from our stores.

Sideguard Assist in the Actros.

Sees what others miss.

Everyone talks, one delivers. As soon as anything is detected alongside the vehicle in the danger zone and there is a risk of collision, Sideguard Assist in the Actros immediately sounds the alarm. You can recognise cyclists, pedestrians or other vehicles even in unclear traffic situations – and even in your blind spot.

More information is available at www.mercedes-benz-trucks.com