July2013trucker by Lynn Group Media

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IRISH

& LIGHT COMMERCIALS

JULY 2013

Vol. 16 No. 6

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All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be published or reproduced in any way without the written permission of the author or Lynn Group Media © Copyright Lynn Group Media 2013. The opinions expressed in Irish Trucker do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publishers, their agents or Irish Trucker. While every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this publication is correct, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors that may appear.

Contents 2

www.irishtrucker.com

Industry News A look at the most recent trucking & haulage industry news

20 Meritor Aftermarket Europe Driving forward in the global market 26

26 McArdles Test Centre Has forged a stellar reputation for itself 31 Larry Kiernan Plant Hire Ltd One of the foremost plant hire & civil engineering companies in Dublin

72 Polonez/Rezmerita Plus Ltd. Ireland’s premier Polish retail and distribution company

36 Adare International Transpot Ltd Providing a comprehensive service

76 Al Read Electrical One of Ireland’s premier specialists in installing and maintaining public lighting

41 McNulty Motors Meeting their customers’ demands 44 J&F Group Northern Ireland’s leading Mitsubishi dealer 49 Driver CPC Driver Certificate of Professional Competence 52 Pepper (Dromore) Ltd. Family run business going back three generations

82 Oriel Auto Specialists Ltd The ultimate one stop shop 86 JM Autoparts Ltd. Celebrating 30 years in business 90 FTS (Fermoy Transport Services) Logistics Leading express courier provider 93 Classifieds

58 Electric Skyline Ltd Providing a quality service of all types of exterior public/street lighting

Irish Trucker is published by DG Press, Kells Business Park, Kells, Co. Meath

64 Topaz Recently approved supplier under the Diesel Rebate Scheme 68 Karl Lafferty Transport Experiencing significant growth as newest member of TPN

Telephone: (046) 9241923 Fax: (046) 9241926 e mail: contact@lynngroupmedia.com

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New Distribution Centre For Ireland

As well as a raft of new-to-range additions and the recent introduction of rotating electrics into its product portfolio, First Line is also expanding its physical presence, having outgrown its original premises in Northern Ireland, and is moving into a larger distribution centre in Belfast. The 12,000sq.ft warehouse is centrally located and through a fleet of seven vehicles it provides deliveries twice-a-day across Northern Ireland and three times-a-day in the immediate vicinity. Fourteen members of staff now make up the team and together First Line staff at their new they already handle more than 20,000 part numbers from 4,500 warehouse in Belfast binning locations. Commenting on the development, managing director, Dan Joyner said: “Due to the growing demand for our products from within the province, the time was right for us to increase our investment in the operation to further support our customers on the ground. We have a keen and enthusiastic team and are confident that under the continuing direction of William Owens, it will be a great success for the company and for the team as individuals.” For more information about the quality products in both the First Line and Borg & Beck range, please call the sales team on: 01869 248484 or visit: www.firstline.co.uk

Seatruck ferry unusual cargo

Seatruck Ferries Heysham-Warrenpoint route had the unusual task of transporting 170 ’Snoozebox’ cabins to provide temporary accommodation for the 1350 security personnel drafted in for the G8 Summit that recently took place on the shores of Lough Erne. Each cabin houseed eight individuals in two rooms, each of which had its own bathroom facilities. The cabins were moved to a strict timeline with Newry based Motis securing the contract for their transportation to site. Seatruck Commercial Manager in Ireland Damian McGrath commented: "The movement took a great deal of planning not only to meet the requirements of the contract but also to ensure that our regular customers were not disadvantaged by this large movement. Mr McGrath added "Many of the shipments were undertaken on weekend and off peak sailings where space could be made available more easily. The Warrenpoint route is having a busy year with more and more users switching to the service".

Sprinter still top choice for Swan Plant Hire

Swan Plant Hire, one of Dublin’s largest plant hire companies, has taken delivery of their second new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 313 medium wheel base van in just 12 months. Supplied by MUTEC Dublin, it is wrapped in their distinctive Swan Plant Hire livery and fitted out with their specialised workshop Swan Plant Hire Mercedes-Sprinter van requirements.

Agri-food sector to get €12bn injection

A massive €12bn is to be invested into the Irish agri-food sector over the next seven years. Minister for State at the Department of Agriculture Tom Hayes has confirmed that the huge investment will be made by 2020 to promote growth in the industry. The Minister made the disclosure at the opening of the Charleville Agricultural Show in County Cork. The aim of the investment is to increase the volume of food production in Ireland by a third over the next decade. According to reports, Mr Hayes commended farm families, saying they all have a key role to play in helping drive the growth, which he says will help contribute to economic recovery and job creation. The knock-on effects of continuing growth in the agri-food sector are particularly pertinent to the haulage industry. IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Port of Cork Invest €3 Million in New Harbour Mobile Crane for Ringaskiddy DeepWater Berth

The Port of Cork has announced an investment of €3 million in new plant equipment following an agreement with crane manufacturer, Liebherr. The investment includes a new LHM 550 Harbour Mobile Crane which will be in operation at Ringaskiddy Deep-water Berth. Increasingly, importers to the Port of Cork are using Panamax size vessels of over 200 metres in length, so providing the most capable equipment to discharge these vessels is vital to ensuring a fast and efficient turnaround. With the recent fodder crisis in Ireland, the Port of Cork has seen an increase of hay shipments and dry bulk to the port, justifying the need for new plant equipment. The new LHM 550 crane will enhance the Port of Cork’s capabilities in handling this type of vessel and is critical to efficient bulk and container discharge operations in Ringaskiddy. Over the last two years, the Port of Cork has invested up to €7 million in the Ringaskiddy Deep-water Berth demonstrating their commitment to providing the best possible service to port customers. Following the purchase of additional handling equipment in Ringaskiddy in 2012, the Port of Cork and global shipping company Maersk, were able to commence their direct container service to Ireland. Container services such as this have enabled the Port of Cork to greatly increase volumes of imports and exports. The Port has seen a dramatic increase of almost 50% in bulk cargo and anticipates a further increase in demand in this dry bulk sector highlighting the need for continued investment in new equipment. Port of Cork Chairman John Mullins and Pat O’Leary, Managing Director Speaking about the investment, Mr Denis Healy Manager of Engineering Liebherr Container Cranes Ltd with the new LHM 550 Harbour Mobile Services/Deputy Chief Executive, Port of Cork said: “The LHM 550 crane is designed Crane in the Port of Cork. for versatile and efficient cargo handling and will provide greater efficiency for all our customers. This adds to the recent investment the Port made last year in our new Container Terminal handling operations in Ringaskiddy. The Port has seen a dramatic increase in throughput in Ringaskiddy mainly due to an increase in bulk cargo and with the current fodder crisis in Ireland; there have been a number of large shipments of hay arriving into the Port.” The Port of Cork is ideally located to offer state of the art facilities in the offshore oil exploration market in the Celtic Sea and Porcupine basin. In 2012 the Port of Cork successfully assisted with the BarryRoe Oil Exploration Project. This creates opportunities and challenges for the Port in terms of berths available; however the Port is confident that the current development plans for Ringaskiddy will answer the needs of the port and those of the region in the short, medium and long term. Other areas which the Port of Cork anticipates an increase is the agri-business, particularly when the reforms to the CAP come into effect in 2015. The Port of Cork expects to handle much larger shipments in the future so it is imperative that the Port has the right equipment and berths available to be able to handle different types of cargo. The Port of Cork is a key link to the economic success of Ireland and in particular the entire Munster region. 98% of goods imported or exported from Ireland are moved by ship, highlighting the importance of ports to our economy. Earlier in the year, the Port of Cork outlined plans for potential Port development in Ringaskiddy. These proposed developments are the first phase of the implementation of the Port of Cork’s Strategic Development Plan Review (2010), the core principles of which were endorsed in the recently launched National Ports Policy. This Policy has also identified the continued commercial development of the Port of Cork Company as a key strategic objective in terms of allowing the Port of Cork to meet the needs of the Country in the short, medium and long-term. It is the hoped that the Port of Cork will be in a position to lodge a planning application for the future development of Ringaskiddy at the end of 2013.

FedEx opens Dublin forwarding office

Freight forwarder FedEx Trade Networks has opened its first office in the Republic of Ireland. The office is the 24th in Europe. “With the new operation in Dublin, we can provide global shippers and businesses in the region with the local support they need,” said Christian Blain, vice president EMEA operations, FedEx Trade Networks. “Dublin is an important transport hub for the medical device, pharmaceutical, technology, aerospace and industrial sectors and offers multiple import and export options. This new office will provide customers enhanced access to the whole of Europe and increase connectivity worldwide.”

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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TD calls for road consideration

Dublin North West TD, Dessie Ellis (SF), is calling on traffic planners to review the Dublin Outer Orbital Route as an alternative to increasing tolls on the M50. The muchmooted 80km orbital route was planned to run outside the M50 and link the M1 near Drogheda, through the N2 at Slane, the N3 at Navan and the N4 at Kilkock, lining into the M7 at Kilcullen. The plan was eventually shelved but Deputy Ellis, the Sinn Féin transport spokesperson, says it would be preferable to any future increase on M50 tolls, as suggested earlier this month in an NRA report. It’s believed that the report proposed five tolling points, including one between Ballymun and Finglas, which combined could result in charges of up to e6.50 to use the motorway. NRA spokesperson Séan O'Neil said that while increasing tolling could be an option in the future it had no role in setting tolls, which was up to the Government to implement. Deputy Ellis said his party had consistently opposed tolling on the M50 and didn’t believe it would deal with the problem of congestion. “It would simply raise more money from already hard-pressed road users,” he added. “The reason the M50 is congested at times is that it is the best option for many motorists to get to their destination. The solution is not to make the motorway less attractive and encourage people on to smaller roads shifting the problem. The solution is to give commuters options.” The local TD said reviewing plans such as the Dublin Outer Orbital Route could create jobs and offer an alternative solution to congestion.

Diesel dye costing millions

A group has called on the Government to scrap diesel dye and save in the region of €628 million per year. The State spends €600m a year dying 1.25 billion litres of fuel green to separate diesel used for agricultural or industrial purposes from everyday use diesel. It also loses around €150m a year to fuel laundering. Social Justice Ireland said ending this process and introducing a rebate system for farmers, coach operators and road hauliers would allow the Government to redirect spending to job creation, boosting domestic demand and developing infrastructure. It suggested a rebate system be introduced in its place, which would cost the state €48m in payments to farmers, €4m to coach operators and €70m to road hauliers. The remaining savings of €628m could be invested in "productive activities", it said. Director Sean Healy said continuing to pump €600m into the dyeing process was wasteful and needs to be addressed. "Why is it that we don't go through costings and decide what is worth changing when these kinds of payments are continuing?" Mr Healy said. "Why does that make sense to the Government when it doesn't make sense to ensure that welfare rates rise a bit or that people who are long-term unemployed be given the option of a part-time job? A joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport confirmed the €600m of spending in a report on the country's road haulage industry published last October. The report stated that provisions of Irish law within the Mineral Oil Tax Regulations 2001 state that a blue dye must be added to some diesel, which turns it green. Fuel for agricultural or industrial purposes carries lower rates of tax and duty, meaning it needs to be separated from everyday use diesel. The state then picks up the bill from major fuel companies who carry out the dying process.

Irish & UK Transport Company Reynolds Logistics celebrates 85 years in business

An Irish and UK based family-run logistics company, Reynolds Logistics have reached the impressive milestone of their 85th anniversary. Reynolds Logistics who were named European Transport Company of the Year for 2012 are one of the leading bulk logistics companies involved in the distribution of bulk fuels, lubricants, bitumen, specialist liquids and hazardous goods throughout Ireland, the UK and Europe. To coincide with this achievement Reynolds Logistics have just launched a new website and livery for their trucks. www.reynoldslogisitics.com The company has two main operating bases in Dublin, Ireland and Ellesmere Port, United Kingdom, with several strategically placed out-bases including a new base in East London to ensure a seamless network of transport operations throughout Ireland the United Kingdom and Continental Europe. Now with the family in their third generation Andrew Reynolds the CEO is shaping the company to continue its growth into new markets with safety, innovation and customer satisfaction as the key drivers. Reynolds Logistics employ 260 people and have an annual turnover of €35 million. Reynolds Logistics, Dublin, former winner of the Fleet Transport ‘Irish Haulier of the Year’ and Silver award recipient in the European Transport Company of the Year in 2009. The new www.reynoldslogistics.com is user friendly website with a more professional look and feel. The site is constantly updated with news stories, photographs and social media live feeds. It provides one of Europe’s leading transport companies with a strong online branding presence. The new livery which is reflected on the new website will have great brand presence Reynolds Logistics new livery for Reynolds Logistics fleet on the road along with clearer safety messages. Reynolds Logistics in partnership with The Road Safety Authority (RSA), deliver lifesaving road safety messages to road users. CEO Andrew Reynolds say’s “for any company to celebrate 85 years in business is a great achievement. Reynolds Logistics can attribute our success to our staff many of whom have been with us for many years, our consistent innovation and desire to improve.. Each and every member of staff contributed to our success and long may it continue. “ IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Komatsu launches new D3723 Crawler Dozer

Komatsu D37-23 Crawler Dozer

Komatsu has released details of their new upgraded D37-23 crawler dozer, first versions of which will soon be launched here by their distributor in Ireland, McHale Plant Sales of Birdhill. Powered by a next level EU Stage IIIB/EPA Tier 4 interim emissions certified engine with innovative HST technology, the new D37-23 is smarter looking with a number of features that improve handling and comfort, reduce operating costs and deliver added productivity. A special feature is its EU stage IIIB/EPA Tier 4 SAA4D95LE-6 engine. Built upon proven Komatsu technology, it delivers the same high horsepower as before with lower fuel consumption using an advanced electronic control system to manage airflow rate, fuel injection, combustion parameters and after-treatment functions. A new simplified diesel oxidation catalyst - designed for long life with no required maintenance and no scheduled replacement interval - removes soot without need for a diesel particulate filter. Other features include a new variable-flow turbocharger, direct-flow air filter, high-pressure common rail fuel injection, 16-valve cylinder head and exhaust gas recirculation that delivers precise air flow management and more complete combustion. Operator comfort was another design priority. Features include a steeply sloped engine hood and forward cab layout that provide more room, extra comfort and better ride quality for operators while positioning them closer to the blade for improved visibility and enhanced grading ability. Large glass windows give better visibility. Air filters restrict dust ingress and viscous cab damper mounts suppress noise and vibration when crossing rough ground. Developed as a compact and nimble worksite performer, the D37-23 handles a variety of land clearing, grading, forestry and site work applications. Long track-on-ground EX and low ground pressure PX models have operating weights ranging from 8,480 kg to 8,780 kg. At 2,200rpm, it pushes with a net 66 kW/89HP and delivers up to 20% reduction in fuel consumption, depending on application and working mode. A key feature is its new, more productive blade with power angle tilt. Its highly durable box structure and good curvature rolls material more efficiently. A new hydraulic blade angle switch adjusts the aggressiveness of the cutting edge. The D37-23 has two working modes. E-mode for economy covers all general dozing, leveling and spreading applications with speed and power while saving fuel. P-mode for power covers slot dozing, ripping, uphill dozing and other applications in which power takes priority over fuel consumption. It has two gearshift modes - Variable with 20 incremental speed settings and new Customisable Quick Shift with three speed settings. Next generation HST transmission and engine control improves operational efficiency and reduces consumption by up to 10% in power mode and up to 20% in economy mode. It delivers powerful turns, even under load. Counter-rotation delivers minimum turning radius and top class manoeuvrability in tight spots. Cab features include new controls with thumb push buttons, an air ride seat and new quieter interior that enhances operator comfort. A new large high-resolution color monitor displays all machine information. A rear view monitoring system can be synchronized with reversing operations. Komatsu has designed the D37-23 with easy maintenance in mind. Daily engine check items are grouped at one side of the engine compartment. Engine oil can be drained at the front while a rear mounted fan makes for easy examination of the radiator, oil cooler and charge air cooler. A manually reversing fan allows for quick cleaning of the side-by-side coolers. Also standard is a feature that helps double undercarriage life. For the first three years or 2,000 hours, the D37-23 will be supported by Komatsu CARE maintenance program while latest KOMTRAX technology uses wireless technology to monitor the machine remotely, protect against theft, record operating hours, fuel consumption and provide maintenance alerts.

Irish/Spanish ’motorway of the sea’ needed

A new ‘motorway of the sea’ between Port of Cork and Gijon in Spain was called for at the recent Ireland-Iberia Trade and Transport Roundtable in Dublin. Last year exports to Spain dropped to €2.9bn, down by €400mn from the €3.3bn exports in 2007 and the motorway is viewed as a way to boost trade between the two countries. Attendees heard that there is sufficient volume to support a new direct service to the Iberian Peninsula — Ireland exported 230,000 tonnes of goods and imported 701,000 tonnes last year. Currently 110,000 tonnes of goods move between Ireland and Iberia by road with the consequent cost, environmental impact and susceptibility to British and French restrictions on HGV traffic and road-usage charges. The Port of Cork and Port of Gijon in northern Spain have been working together for some time on the feasibility of setting up and launching a ‘maritime motorway’ between the two ports by means of a regular, twice-weekly roll-on/roll-of ferry service. This would complete the journey in 25 hours and reduce the total time and cost associated with the movement of goods between the island of Ireland and the Iberian Peninsula. According to Michael McCarthy, Commercial Manager of the Port of Cork “the service will facilitate and enhance the already significant freight and tourist activity between the two regions”. Chief executive of the Irish Exporters Association John Whelan said at the event in the Guinness Enterprise Centre; “The advent of the Irish government’s new ports policy together with major investment by Spanish authorities in the Port of Gijon and its 4 million square metre multimodal logistics park Zalia, as well as EU incentives to encourage road freight traffic to mode-switch to short sea shipping, have lent considerable extra momentum to this initiative to establish a direct shipping connection between Ireland and Spain.’’

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Ireland showcases credentials to remain a road safety champion in Europe

"The improvements in Irish road safety show that it should be recognised as a road safety champion in the EU," said Antonio Avenoso, ETSC[i] Executive Director at the Road Safety PIN[ii] Talk organised in Dublin, in cooperation with the Road Safety Authority, under the auspices of the Irish Presidency of the EU. "We are very happy to see that the new Irish Road Safety Strategy is looking to build upon this progress, which ETSC has recognised through the 2010 Road Safety PIN Award," Mr Avenoso added. The PIN Talk in Dublin, the 35th in the series started by ETSC in 2006, focused on ways of further improving road safety in Ireland. Mircea Steriu, ETSC Communications Manager, presented the latest road safety developments at the European level and underlined the role of constructive competition and exchange of good practices among Member States in improving road safety. Prof. Richard Allsop, the Chairman of the PIN Programme presented the Irish road safety situation, placing it in the EU context. Ireland ranks 5th in reducing road deaths since 2001 and 15th out of the 27 EU Member States in reducing road deaths among younger road users, aged 15-30. It comes up 17th of the 27 EU Member States in reducing road deaths in urban areas. Jesper Sølund of the Danish Road Safety Council presented the policies which led to Denmark receiving the 2013 PIN Road Safety Award and also outlined ways of moving forward with an ambitious vision for 2020. Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport told the welcomed the ETSC’s report on road safety in Ireland. “Road safety has been a priority from the start for this Government. This detailed research from the ETSC will help us to make further progress. Ireland is currently in fifth place for road deaths in the EU, but we want to make it the safest country. This ETSC report also coincides with the publication of the Road Traffic Bill 2013, which will bring in new laws like roadside impairment testing for drug driving, and provisions for a new class of ‘Novice’ driving licences.” Mr. Noel Brett, CEO, Road Safety Authority said, “The Road Safety Authority is delighted that the ETSC has decided to host its Road Safety Performance Index (PIN) Talk in Dublin. The talk marks the end of Ireland’s Presidency of the EU from a road safety perspective and places Ireland’s road safety performance in a European context. While Ireland has made some great strides in recent years, to lower the number of people dying and being seriously injured on the roads, there is still much work still to be done. 162 road deaths were recorded in 2012 and this is an unacceptably high number. Ireland’s newly launched Road Safety Strategy 2013 to 2020 aims to have 124 or fewer road deaths by 2020 or 25 deaths per million inhabitants.” "As ETSC we are positively impressed by the energy and enthusiasm Irish stakeholders put into improving road safety here. The very name of your new Strategy: Closing the gap, shows a deep understanding of one of our most important messages to stakeholders: In road safety work there should be no complacency!" said Mr Avenoso in his concluding remarks. For further inquiries, please contact ETSC Communications Manager Mircea Steriu, mircea.steriu@etsc.eu, +32(0)2 230 4106.

IEA dismayed by recession talks

The Irish Exporters’ Association (IEA) has expressed disappointment at recent statistics, saying conditions will remain very difficult this year. IEA chief executive John Whelan described the first three months of 2013 as "disastrous" for manufacturing and agri-food exports, which fell by 9% in that time. The sharp fall in exports, caused by a contraction in Ireland's main export markets - particularly in Europe - are blamed as the main cause for the economic contraction for the first quarter of this year. Mr Whelan said that services exports however had continued to grow and were up by 3% - and now account for over half of all Irish exports. Speaking recently, he said: "The worry at this particular juncture (with) all our information coming from our main markets across Europe and in the UK - is that we're not going to have a rapid bounce back in the second half of this year. So our manufacturing and agrifood guys are going to have an extremely tough second half of the year. "And whereas we were hoping for a turnaround...economic conditions are very fragile and we're not seeing any real benefit in terms of export growth. So, unfortunately, it looks like we will have a very difficult 2013 right through to the winter," said Mr Whelan.

New export service launched

A new service for Irish companies looking to export into the UK has been launched this week by Corkbased financial services and accountancy firm, Westboro Partners. According to the company, it has been working closely with the British Embassy to devise the programme, which guides companies through the financial and business processes of doing business in the sterling zone. “When targeting a new market for business expansion, there are a number of challenges due to the peculiarities and different procedures that exist in each country,” said John O’Sullivan, managing partner of the firm. “We have many years experience in working with companies who want to grow their business and expand into the UK, often before an aggressive EU export strategy. Through this experience and our financial expertise, we have now created a programme to support indigenous companies, and ensure their success in new markets”. IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Hytech Logistics sign €1.5m contract with LLA to deliver DOPsys - the world's first ever certified technical distribution service

Hytech Logistics has signed a contract valued at €1.5m with the Logistics Learning Alliance UK (LLA) to deliver the world’s first ever certified technical distribution service – DOPsys. The L/r: Stuart Burke, MD, new Hytech Logistics and Peter Jones, MD LLA partnership will also see a set of accredited training programmes in technical distribution for the logistics sector that specifically include ‘final-mile delivery’. A crucial part of any supply chain is ‘final-mile delivery’. The last leg of the supply chain is where products are delivered to a required site and positioned to a point of use where they can be finally commissioned by technical staff, if required. Where it is costly for companies to develop these capabilities in-house, there are advantages in outsourcing to technical distribution companies to ensure this professional service is procured when required, so the client can concentrate on their core business activity. “While logistics challenges abound at every link of the supply chain, the final mile carries some specific hurdles and characteristics that make it particularly complex,” said Peter Jones, managing director, LLA. “Not every third-party provider has the expertise to deliver to technical distribution standards, which has created a requirement for proper certified industry training for all involved in this process. Hytech Logistics hasn’t just acknowledged this requirement; the company has acted on it and the LLA is very pleased to work with Hytech.” Any business embarking on the DOPsys training programme will be creating a real career enhancement tool for its workforce. It will provide a good succession planning programme enabling workforce development, staff empowerment, reduced labour turnover and emotional loyalty through the creation of a natural route for its workforce to progress within its business. All leading to a more skilled workforce and improved working culture. “DOPsys will offer manufacturers and their distributors the opportunity to have their product delivered, offloaded and positioned to the same industry certified standard anywhere in the world, where previously the service was at best inconsistent,” said Stuart Burke, managing director, Hytech Logistics. "Technical distribution companies wishing to employ this industry standard as the benchmark for their final-mile delivery and installation may apply to Hytech Logistics to become Certified DOPsys partners." As part of this certification, there will also be a requirement that the staff employed have all demonstrated the necessary levels of expertise and competence to ensure that all delivery and final installation projects are completed to DOPsys standards. This certification of personnel will be completed by LLA. Drivers and operators will have a career development path to three levels (DOPsys Technician, DOPsys Supervisor and DOPsys Project Manager) covering levels 3, 4 and 5 of the UK Qualification Framework in Logistics and Supply Chain.

More penalty points on the way

Transport Minister Leo Varadkar recently published a new Bill which will see tougher penalty points introduced for three different road offences. Speeding will now attract three points on payment of fixed charge and five on conviction (previously two and four). Mobile phone use will now attract three points on payment of fixed charge and five on conviction (previously two and four). Non-wearing of seatbelts will now attract three points on payment of fixed charge and five on conviction (previously two and four). Other offences such as non-display of an NCT certificate, which at present involve a court appearance, will attract two points on payment of fixed charge The legislation also provides for roadside drug impairment tests. Transport Minister Leo Varadkar says he hopes these will lead to a marked improvement in road safety. "There's no reliable system of testing on the roadside, in the way that you would with a breathalyser, for example," he said. "What we are bringing in is evidential testing, so it's proper neurological testing, involving past-pointing and stepping and so on, and gardaí are trained to do that, and that can be then admissible as evidence in court, but ideally it will be backed up by a blood or urine sample as well."

IRHA voice concerns

The Irish Road Haulage Association has voiced its concern over increased tolling and the problems it could potentially create for licensed road haulage operators. “The report is very concerning for our industry and creates even greater urgency on the need to overhaul the commercial vehicle road tax system in Ireland,” said IRHA President, Eoin Gavin. Mr Gavin said his organisation wants a change in policy to the charging of commercial traffic and is calling for the introduction of a nationwide ‘pay-asyou-go’ road user charge for commercial vehicles.” IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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not so ’grand’ for Scottish hauliers

Scottish hauliers would have to pay an extra £1,000 per year to travel on UK roads after being granted independence. A report has been compiled warning that motorists from Scotland would face extra costs to travel on roads in the remainder of the UK and the most glaring of these is the fee that would be charged to truckers to transport their goods into England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Government analysis highlighted the impact of legislation being introduced next year that will introduce a charge payable by hauliers for wear and tear of the UK’s road network. For UK companies, this will be offset against other road taxes so that nine out of ten HGVs will cost no more to run. But operators from other countries will have to pay the UK Treasury up to £10 a day, increasing to a maximum of £1,000 per year, in addition to any domestic levies they incur. The charge would place a substantial additional burden on businesses in a separate Scotland, many of whom rely on demand south of the border for their products. Additionally, they will have to cope with an extra layer of regulation. Among the other problems highlighted by the analysis are the cost to Scottish taxpayers of setting up a new version of the Driver Vehicle and Licensing Agency (DVLA) to administer the country’s 3.7 million driver licences as well as MOTs.

“Daylight” brought to the darkness – Thanks to Truck-Lite Europe

The European division of a global Commercial Vehicle components manufacturer has Round LED announced the latest headlamp innovation in LED lighting is to be brought to Europe for the first time: the 27 Series full LED Headlamps. Truck-Lite Europe Ltd. produce components - including lamps, horns, mirrors and trailer-harness-kits - for a multitude of companies: working within the Commercial Vehicle, Off-Road, Military and Trailer sectors as well as the independent aftermarket and large OEM contracts. Truck-Lite will be the first European based manufacturer to offer a full LED headlamp with the launch of the much anticipated 27 Series. These products, developed for military purposes, have been modified for the European market. With a rating of 5,800K on the ‘Uniform Chromaticity Scale’ (compared to 3,200K of many incandescent bulbs), these LED Headlamps reduce drivers’ fatigue, with their “daylight-beams”. The light released is closer to daylight than incandescent lamps and more visible (not brighter), improving target detection and reaching 50 per cent further on the roads ahead: improving stopping distances by 11 per cent. Designed in a 5”x7” rectangular shape or a 7” round, the product is able to be retro-fitted into a multitude of applications, from trucks to tractors, motorbikes to motorcars and even London Black Cabs. Managing Director of Truck-Lite Europe Ltd, Aaron Rylance said: “We’re really excited to be releasing this product onto the market. The engineering and design involved is another example of Truck-Lite Europe being at the cutting edge of the ever-changing Commercial Vehicle manufacturing industry.” For more information about Truck-Lite Europe Ltd. visit www.truck-lite.eu.com or use the contact details below.

Motor tax loophole closes

Motorists will no longer be able to falsely claim that their vehicle was off the road. New legislation to end motor tax evasion, which costs the State more than €54 million a year, came into force on July 1st. The crux of the legislation is that motorists who do not have up-to-date tax discs will no longer be able to claim their vehicle was off the road. Up until now, motorists with untaxed cars could submit a non-use declaration at a Garda station. The signature of the declaration had to be witnessed by a garda, but no other documentary evidence was required. The old system was open to abuse as motorists could drive after their tax had lapsed and explain the gap by declaring their vehicle was off the road. From today onwards, anyone intending to take their car off the road must make a submission in advance to the motor tax office. Motorists can make a submission that their car will be off the road for between three and twelve months in a calendar year. Those making a false declaration face fines of up to €4,000 or six months in prison. “There are many valid reasons why people may wish to put their car off the road for a while, such as working abroad for a time, and they will be facilitated, so long as they let their motor tax office know in advance,” said Environment Minister Phil Hogan. “We are targeting those who evade paying their motor tax. “Compliant tax payers should welcome this move – up to €55m per annum is not collected currently through tax evaders taking a holiday from paying their motor tax.”

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truck news designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 16:44 Page 14

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truck news designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 16:44 Page 15

Frugal new Actros tempts Mulgrew back to Mercedes-Benz

One of the new Mercedes Benz Actros 2545 units purchased by Mulgrew Haulage

Excellent all-round performance from a demonstration unit, and the confident expectation of significantly improved fuel economy figure compared to its fleet average, persuaded Mulgrew Haulage to invest in its first Mercedes-Benz tractors for 20 years. One of the leading lights of the Northern Ireland transport industry, Mulgrew has purchased 10 New Actros 2545 units from Mercedes-Benz Truck & Van (NI) – four are in service already, with the rest due to follow soon. Mulgrew’s trucks wear a distinctive livery and are a common sight on the roads of Ireland. Although its fleet has been dominated in recent years by another manufacturer, trade press coverage highlighting the Mercedes-Benz contender’s impressive mpg returns have caught the operator’s eye, particularly those reports including hard figures from customers with trucks already on the road. “We’d seen and heard some very positive reports about the New Actros so we decided it was time to take a look for ourselves,” says Paul Mulgrew, a Director of the Dromore-based firm. “We contacted Mercedes-Benz Truck & Van (NI) and were very pleased by the helpful and professional response we received. Sales Executive Roy Owens gave us a great deal of useful information and the dealer supplied us with a demonstrator. “We ran that truck for an extended period to get a true picture of how well it performed, and the results were certainly pleasing. I don’t want to quote exact figures but it turned in some enouraging fuel returns, as well as being well liked by our drivers, so on this basis we decided to order 10 trucks.” The New Actros have range-topping GigaSpace cabs and 450 hp straight-six engines. They join a fleet of over 100 topweight tractor units which undertake a variety of general haulage duties across Northern Ireland, the Republic, and mainland UK. “They’ve only been on the road a month so it’s a little too early to get a benchmark fuel figure but with the evidence of the long-term demo, and what we’ve seen so far, the early signs are very promising,” says Mr Mulgrew. “Our New Actros tractors are already a little way ahead of the fleet average and we expect them to improve still further as they bed in. They also look fantastic in our colours and are a great advertisement for the company out on the road.” And he adds: “We’re also impressed with what we’ve seen of Mercedes-Benz Truck & Van’s service support. The dealer’s workshop at Newtownabbey looks like a smart, professional operation. We’ve been given all the right promises, so we’re confident that high-quality back-up will be there.” www.mulgrew.com

Fleetmatics group PLC group Appoints Derek Bryan as European Sales Director

Fleetmatics Group PLC is pleased to announce the appointment of Derek Bryan as European Sales Director. Derek will be responsible for leading the European field and web sales teams in the Dublin and Reading offices. Derek is a founding member of Fleetmatics Group PLC. Since the establishment of the company, he has worked in numerous roles in Derek Bryan is the new Ireland and the UK, including Field Sales European Sales Director for Fleetmatics Manager, Director of Web Sales, Enterprise and Public Sector Sales Director. Before joining Fleetmatics, Derek worked in the telecommunications industry for seven years. With over 20 years of leadership experience in both field and web sales, Derek has a keen knowledge in this field. This experience will be instrumental in developing European sales growth for Fleetmatics Group PLC.

Survey: increase in employment

A new survey shows that nearly a third of businesses expect to take on more staff, with 29% saying they will increase their payroll. The Business Sentiment Survey by KBC Bank and Chartered Accountants Ireland suggests the Irish economy is improving, despite recent figures showing Ireland has dipped back into recession. The Chief Economist at KBC Bank, Austin Hughes says 42% felt business had picked up in the last three months, while 19% felt things have got worse. He says the survey shows more companies are looking at hiring new staff. IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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More cars registered on July 1st than the whole of June

There were more new cars sold on July 1st than the whole of June. July 1st, the first day of the new '132' registration plate, 1,927 new cars were sold, compared to just 1 on the same day last July.

• There were more cars sold on July 1st than the first 18 days of July last year • There were 2,095 total new vehicles registered on July 1st compared to just 1 on the 1st of July last year. • There were 138 light commercials (vans) sold on July 1st (none were sold 1st of July last year) • There were 31 HGV's (trucks) sold July 1st (compared to none on the 1st last year) • Car sales on July 1st exceeded sales on the first working day of January this year- traditionally the busiest day of the year for car sales when 1,487 new cars were sold. To put this into context, though, it should be noted that July 1st last year was a Sunday. Even so, when compared to July 2nd last year: • 140 new cars were sold on July 2nd last year compared to 1,927 on July 1st this year • 165 total new vehicles sold July 1st last year compared to 2,096 on July 1st this year. • 15 vans sold last year v 138 on July 1st this year. • 10 trucks last year compared to 31 on July 1st this year.

Alan Nolan, Director General of SIMI: "It's a very positive start to the new '132' year. Clearly motorists can see the benefits of a '132' plate and are availing of the offers out there, with many only available for the introductory period. Feedback from Dealerships had indicated a lot of interest in the run up to the new plate but it’s always hard to gauge just how much until we see the actual registrations coming through. As it's the first year of the new dual registration, we hope that the momentum continues for the coming weeks and months."

Paul Kane

Vantruck & Bus Parts

For Further Information, Please Contact

Telephone

028 8774 7258

(ROI) 048 8774 7258

truck news designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 16:44 Page 17

cpc.ie launch new 24/7 on-line booking

To further enhance their customer convenience and service CPC.IE, has now launched a NEW state of the art 24/7 instant On-Line booking system. Truck and Bus Drivers can now select the venue, module, date and course that they prefer and secure their place on this course for only €49 via this extremely simple to use new on-line booking service. All bus and truck drivers must complete one Driver CPC training course each year and CPC.IE now trains over 15,000 of these drivers every year. CPC.IE runs 40 of these courses every week at 30 venues nationwide and now drivers can book any one of these courses themselves wherever they are 24/7 by visiting www.cpc.ie. However if you would prefer you can still ring their office at 1890-DRIVER (1890-374837); 066-7185556; 087-6363003; 086-2458379 or email info@cpc.ie. The quality and professionalism of courses run by CPC.IE is obvious from the thousands of Testimonials on their website: “A very enjoyable course”. “The best course I have done in my life”. “Excellent – will use CPC.IE again”. “Excellent instructor throughout the course”. “Made everything very simple to understand. I learnt a lot of things I was not sure of. Overall 10/10.” “Very good trainer and very knowledgeable”. Apart from their new innovative 24/7 on-line booking, watch out for their new reality TV competition (“Ultimate Truck Driver”) in search for Ireland's Most Professional Truck Driver. This new TV series, created and sponsored by CPC.IE, will be aired on TV3 later this year.

Sanef awarded Irish contract to manage ‘joined-up’ toll system Ireland leads the way with fully interoperable tolling system

sanef its, the global leader in road technology services employing 120 people in Ireland, has been awarded the contract to operate a new inter-connected road tolling system across Ireland’s road tolling network. The new project, named Interoperability Management Services Provider, supports the supply of a new system to manage electronic toll payments from one toll operator to another, meaning that every toll tag in Ireland can now operate on every toll road in Ireland. Last week, Sanef ITS signed a five year contract with the National Roads Authority of Ireland to operate the interoperability service, with the option of a further four year extension. sanef its will deploy its hub solution - FastToll Interop - enabling customers to use any road and any Irish toll system with a single tag and a single invoice. Ireland is the first EU member State to implement a fully interoperable tolling system. Under the European Electronic Toll Service Directive each EU member State has to implement full toll tag interoperability, the first step to achieving full toll tag interoperability throughout Europe. The National Roads Authority (NRA) is the first authority in Europe to provide an interoperability hub which is EETS enabled. Commenting on the announcement, [Simon McBeth, Communication Director], Sanef said: ‘We are delighted to be awarded this contract and to be involved in what it a key milestone in the operation of European motorways. Sanef has overseen the successful introduction of barrier free tolling on Ireland’s busiest motorway, the M50, and we are delighted to expand our portfolio through the award of this contract. ‘Interoperability of toll roads has considerable benefits. Primary among these is the convenience it offers road users. It means that registered toll customers can drive with the certainty of knowing that no matter what toll point they come to, their toll tag will work. ‘These benefits are particularly useful to businesses operating across various parts of the country, providing real efficiency and administrative advantages. ‘For motorway administrators like the NRA, it further underlines the benefits for road users from the motorway investment programme.’

Warehouses waste energy

Warehouses are overspending around £190 million on energy a year, according to research from the Energy Efficiency Financing (EEF) scheme. Based on official sources and EEF data, the study examined a group of sectors to calculate the amount different industries were overpaying on their energy bills. “Our analysis has shown that there is a huge market potential for energy savings from business investment in energy-efficient equipment, amounting to over £3.7 billion per year across the country, and more than £190 million in warehouses alone,” said Darren Riva, head of green financing of the EEF scheme. The scheme offers business finance for the acquisition of energy efficient equipment, and often highlights the problems companies have raising finance for energy efficient investment in today’s economic climate. It was launched as a joint venture between Siemens and the Carbon Trust, whose managing director, Myles McCarthy, said: “These figures demonstrate the huge opportunity businesses have to save energy and cost. “Wise businesses who ensure their operations are using energy efficiently in these difficult economic times will reap huge benefits.” IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Truck-Lite_Ad_May 2013_AW_v2.indd 1

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19/04/2013 21:50

MERITOR AFTERMARKET EUROPE: Your best Reman partner for commercial vehicles and industrial parts

Meritor’s remanufacturing business dates back to 1982 During the last 30 years: ■ Meritor has used its own expertise as an OE designer to guarantee remanufactured products of the highest quality. ■ With the acquisition of Trucktechnic® in 2008, Meritor has profited from the fusion of expertise and knowledge, allowing the expansion of its remanufacturing activities in Europe. ■ In addition to the existing operations in Redditch and Liège, new Reman Facilities in Vrchlabi, Czech Republic were opened in 2012.

Meritor won the award of Remanufacturer of the year 2012 from Rematec

Meritor uses its extensive engineering capability to ensure that the performance of a Meritor Remanufactured product is equal to or better than the original. NON MERITOR PRODUCTS

MERITOR DESIGNED PRODUCTS

3D Scanning

OE Design intent review

Modelling

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Reverse Engineering

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QUALITY MATTERS to accelerate 0-80 km/h

to decelerate 0-80 km/h

500 HP needed 5000 HP needed A brake performance is 10 times higher than a vehicle engine performance

Meritor Aftermarket Switzerland AG Neugutstrasse 89, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland. Tel: +41 (0) 44 824 8200

Meritor Reman Ad_Final.indd 1

ELLEN LOHR

Mercedes truck driver for the truck European championship “The championship is very professional. So you would think that you have to try only new parts. But for us, as a team with low budget, we had to find a solution and we found out that reman calipers by Meritor are very, very competitive. I have a truck from 2006 and I would say, under braking, I’m like the top number 1 truck. I’m very happy that we discovered the concept of remanufacturing with Meritor. Meritor is also strong in differentials. Meritor was the partner number one for us. I would 100% recommend it.”

Meritor Aftermarket UK Limited Unit 1 Broad Ground Road, Lakeside Industrial Estate, Redditch, Worcestershire, B98 8YS, U.K. Tel: +44 (0) 1527 50 3950

03/06/2013 14:35

Meritor Driving Forward in the Global Markets

Maintaining Market Leading Category Truck drive axle (2)

Asia Pacific

Australia & India

Europe

Strategic Priority

Trailer axle

Exit

Aftermarket

Off-highway axle (2)

Developing for Asia Pacific

Strategic Priority

Truck air brake

China

Tactical Opportunity Australia & India

South America

1 1

Joint Venture

Strategic Priority

Future Opportunity

Strategic Priority for Asia Pacific

Military drivetrain, suspension & brakes

North America

Tactical Opportunity

(1) (2)

Tactical Opportunity

Based on market data and management estimates Independent, non-captive, supplier

New Pads range for High utilization

MERITOR KNOW-HOW Recycling and helping the ENVIRONMENT

Meritor ‘Steel Peel’ Retention System

Meritor’s remanufacturing operations encompass eight sites in five countries producing a substantial portfolio of drivetrain and wheel-end components. More than 30,000 tons of metal are recycled annually in Meritor’s remanufacturing operations worldwide, and the company recycles 90 percent of all waste from its operations. More than 40,000 tons of cores or original components are processed at Meritor remanufacturing facilities annually.

Full Face Bedding-in Coating Performance from first fit

Meritor remanufacturing Process and Performance: n Core Sorting We accept old units according to clearly defined and documented quality criteria. n Core Dismantling We apply our knowledge and experience, using specialized, capital-intensive disassembly and cleaning equipment to remanufacture a broad range of products.

Quality Gates We perform quality control on components throughout the remanufacturing process in order to consistently supply a quality remanufactured product.

OE thickness backplates

n Pre-Assembly We use only new OE, or equivalent-to-OE components when replacing failed or worn components.

Maximum resistance to bend and flex. Ensures reduction in hot spotting and presents full pad face to the disc

n Range: 11 Part numbers

n Assembly We replace all wear and other critical components, ensuring that they conform to the product’s original specifications. We incorporate engineering upgrades, thus improving the product’s characteristics.

n Main Brakes applications.

n End of Line Test We use the appropriate equipment to test each single product extensively.

n High demand utilization applications. ALL BUSES and Main TRUCKs HD applications DAF, RENAULT , VOLVO

THEY TRIED IT AND THEY LIKED IT…

n Compete vs TEXTAR T7400, Ferodo and Jurid

WILLIAM SCHWARCK

Rematec news editor in chief

n Material R90 Certicated n Use a high Back Plate Technology. WVA

BRAKE SYSTEM

APPLICATION

29030

Meritor Elsa 1/D3

RENAULT Magnum

29087

Knorr SB7000

MERCEDES Actros, DAF LF, SCANIA 4, IVECO

29090

Meritor D Lisa

IRISBUS / RENAULT Agora / VOLVO B / Dennis Bus

29095

Knorr SB6000

MAN 2000 series L/M, City Bus , DAF SB

29125

Meritor D Duco

VOLVO B / FH / FL

29131

Meritor Elsa 2

MAN EL / EM / NG / F2000 / TGA, RENAULT Magnum E

29173

Meritor ELSA 225-1

RENAULT Midlum

29174

Meritor ELSA 225-3

RENAULT Magnum DX / VOLVO 7700

29244

Knorr SL7-ProTec S

MERCEDES Actros MP4

29246

Knorr SL7-ProTec S

MERCEDES Actros MP4

29088

Wabco Pan 17

MAN L2000, DAF LF / FA 45, IVECO Eurocargo

Torque. correct torque across n speed, pressure and temperature. Fade. High resistance at full n pressures and peak temperatures. n Recovery. After any fade, consistent recovery levels. n Disc wear. Wear levels in line with the best of the best. n Disc thermal fatigue. Ultimate resistance to cracking and hotspotting of the disc. n Pad life. a long life product with features and benefits

“Meritor is a global company that has set very high standards for everything it does in remanufacturing. We are proud that this year’s winner is of such high caliber and advanced skills and is taking remanufacturing to a new level.”

DOUG WOLMA

General Manager, Global Aftermarket Operations “This award is a direct reflection of our companywide commitment to sustainability and, more important, our employees who drive for excellence in remanufacturing operations. Meritor firmly believes in the value remanufacturing brings to our company and our industry.”

Meritor Aftermarket Switzerland AG Neugutstrasse 89, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland. Tel: +41 (0) 44 824 8200

CUSTOMER EUROVEICOLI Italy

“Meritor remanufactured products have overcome the quality expectations and they are absolutely comparable to original products. Value for money is highly convenient and the customer service is extremely functional, competent and kind.”

PATRICK STATTROPP

TruckTechnic Production Manager “Working in the remanufacturing business is a pleasure for me because I feel that I am doing something important for the environment. As a production manager at our facilities in Liege, I can say that we recycle several tons of metal a year, thing that has a positive impact in the decrease of toxic emissions.”

Meritor Aftermarket UK Limited Unit 1 Broad Ground Road, Lakeside Industrial Estate, Redditch, Worcestershire, B98 8YS, U.K. Tel: +44 (0) 1527 50 3950

www.meritor.com

New Pads range for High utilization

MERITOR KNOW-HOW Recycling and helping the ENVIRONMENT

Meritor ‘Steel Peel’ Retention System

Full Face Bedding-in Coating Performance from first fit

Quality Gates We perform quality control on components throughout the remanufacturing process in order to consistently supply a quality remanufactured product.

OE thickness backplates

n Pre-Assembly We use only new OE, or equivalent-to-OE components when replacing failed or worn components.

Maximum resistance to bend and flex. Ensures reduction in hot spotting and presents full pad face to the disc

n Range: 11 Part numbers

n Main Brakes applications.

n End of Line Test We use the appropriate equipment to test each single product extensively.

n High demand utilization applications. ALL BUSES and Main TRUCKs HD applications DAF, RENAULT , VOLVO

THEY TRIED IT AND THEY LIKED IT…

n Compete vs TEXTAR T7400, Ferodo and Jurid

WILLIAM SCHWARCK

Rematec news editor in chief

n Material R90 Certicated n Use a high Back Plate Technology. WVA

BRAKE SYSTEM

APPLICATION

29030

Meritor Elsa 1/D3

RENAULT Magnum

29087

Knorr SB7000

MERCEDES Actros, DAF LF, SCANIA 4, IVECO

29090

Meritor D Lisa

IRISBUS / RENAULT Agora / VOLVO B / Dennis Bus

29095

Knorr SB6000

MAN 2000 series L/M, City Bus , DAF SB

29125

Meritor D Duco

VOLVO B / FH / FL

29131

Meritor Elsa 2

MAN EL / EM / NG / F2000 / TGA, RENAULT Magnum E

29173

Meritor ELSA 225-1

RENAULT Midlum

29174

Meritor ELSA 225-3

RENAULT Magnum DX / VOLVO 7700

29244

Knorr SL7-ProTec S

MERCEDES Actros MP4

29246

Knorr SL7-ProTec S

MERCEDES Actros MP4

29088

Wabco Pan 17

MAN L2000, DAF LF / FA 45, IVECO Eurocargo

DOUG WOLMA

Meritor Aftermarket Switzerland AG Neugutstrasse 89, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland. Tel: +41 (0) 44 824 8200

CUSTOMER EUROVEICOLI Italy

PATRICK STATTROPP

Meritor Aftermarket UK Limited Unit 1 Broad Ground Road, Lakeside Industrial Estate, Redditch, Worcestershire, B98 8YS, U.K. Tel: +44 (0) 1527 50 3950

www.meritor.com

Meritor designed_Layout 1 11/07/2013 14:21 Page 1

Continued Good Wishes To All At Meritor

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Meritor designed_Layout 1 11/07/2013 14:21 Page 2

Naas, Co. Kildare Telephone: +353 (0)45 866468 | Email: fastpartsnaas@dennisontrailers.com

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

mcardles designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 16:28 Page 1

Both trucks and light commercials go through the VTN system

Standing the test of time; three decades of excellence Over the last 30 years, McArdles Test Centre in Dundalk has forged a stellar reputation for itself as one of the best in the business. Providing an excellent, high-quality service that is 100% customer-orientated and second to none, the Coes Road facility is a veritable godsend to commercial vehicle operators in County Louth and across the north east. Irish Trucker caught up with manager Margo Mitchell for an update on day-to-day activities. CONTACT DETAILS 26

McArdles Test Centre Industrial Estate, Coes Road, Dundalk, Co, Louth Tel: 042 9335020 Email:â&#x20AC;&#x2C6;mcardlestestcentre@hotmail.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

mcardles designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 16:28 Page 2

he way the economy

is down – and that has

few businesses making a

own. I’m not sure exactly

has gone in recent years, there are very

mint in the transport sector. Expectations

have

been

lowered considerably in line

with the grim realities that prevail and – in the present

obviously impacted on us – but we are still holding our

what the reason behind it is, but we have been very busy over the last six weeks or so

and

that’s

welcome

development. Long may it continue!”

The business is managed

Margo

and

garage

manager Jim Lennon – who’s also been there since the

early days – with founder and proprietor Joe McArdle opting to take a back seat. When Joe established McArdles 30 years ago, they started out doing truck repairs, breakdowns and sales. D.O.E. testing was introduced as an extra in 1984 but gradually, as things developed and the business moved with the times, they found their niche in providing an unrivalled testing, tachograph calibration, speed limiter and chassis plate service. The transport sector has been hit harder than most by the recession and Margo concedes that the downturn in clients’ business has filtered through to McArdles Test Centre. “We test a lot of the local fleets and most of our customers would have downsized their fleets by around 50% - that has affected all of us,” she notes. However, Margo also stresses that, while the backlog of work has decreased, they are still kept very busy most days. “Four or five years ago, we would have been consistently

environment – keeping things ticking over represents a success in its own right. To this

end,

Centre

McArdles

Dundalk

performing well.

Test is

When asked to assess how

business is going, manager Margo Mitchell – who has

been the public face of

McArdles Test Centre pretty

much since Day One doesn’t

try

paint

misleading picture. “We’re

kept going,” she says. “The

volume of traffic on the road IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

mcardles designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 16:28 Page 3

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Member of the Irish Road Haulage Association Best Wishes To McArdle’s Test Centre

20 Dernaroy Rd., Dromintee, Newry NI/UK 02830 889 212/213 ROI 04830 889 212/213 Best Wishes To McArdle Test Centre, From

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Butler Transport Ltd Best Wishes To McArdle Test Centre, From

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T: 042 9378356 | F: 042 9378377 Mobile: 086 2564270 Email: brendan@butlertransportireland.ie

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Best Wishes To McArdle’s Test Centre IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

mcardles designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 16:28 Page 4

McArdle Test Centre in Dundalk

booked up for maybe three weeks in advance. That is now down to two or three days but this is by no means a disadvantage. In many ways, it is to the benefit of the customer as they don’t have to wait as long to have their vehicles tested. At the end of the day, the tests still have to be done and we still provide the same service we’re renowned for.” Testers Jim Lennon and Wesley Finlay are on hand around the clock to test both light and heavy goods vehicles. As well as testing, they also provide tachograph fitting and calibration, speed limiters and chassis plate measuring. With all the latest, state-ofthe-art testing equipment at their disposal, McArdles Test

Centre have been able to negotiate the ongoing changeover from local authorities to the Road Safety Authority in a seamless manner. “We’re all set for the changeover – which will be completed by March 2015 and ready to move forward,” Margo adds. McArdles test centre is customer-friendly and every effort is made to ensure complete customer satisfaction at all times. The staff are knowledgeable and will answer any queries before and after the test. Their aim is not just to test vehicles fairly and safely but also to assist customers in getting a pass certificate. If a vehicle undergoing a test is found to be in need of minor repair work, McArdles will

Best Wishes To McArdle Test Centre, From

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help in anyway they can. McArdles is one of the longest-standing Vehicle Test Centres in Ireland, so it’s no surprise that their reputation precedes them! They have always benefited from a large customer base and that remains the case today, even if the economic landscape is far from lush! The Coes Road premises and the equipment / technology in use there is consistently upgraded in keeping with the latest Department of Transport / Road Safety Authority guidelines / recommendations and Margo has found that the best way

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mcardles designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 16:28 Page 5

The spotless vehicle test area

towards

all

Margo says the customers

increased pressure to keep

conduct regular checks and

experience

which

exactly what they are going to

encouraging people to make

it has a much better chance

manner

customers, they also provide a thorough and high-standard testing

ensures the road worthiness and safety of all vehicles that come through their doors –

as well as the peace of mind

(and legal compliance!) of their owners.

Repeat business is a crucial

part of the McArdles Test Centre business model and

they have built up over the last three decades know get

and

appreciate

the

consistency: “They know the test takes an hour; they know

we won’t hold them up unnecessarily; and a lot of them have been coming to us for 30 years.

“As operators have fewer

vehicles now, they are under

those trucks and vans on the road.

The

RSA

sure they pass the test and then to maintain their vehicles in

roadworthy

thereafter.

state

“Just because a vehicle

passes a test today, that doesn’t mean it will go through the test automatically

in a year’s time. If they

make sure the vehicle is roadworthy at all times, then

of successfully going through the next test.”

McArdles Test Centre has

provided a sterling service to

commercial vehicle owners in the north east for 30 years now; it would be fair to say they are standing the test of time!

Jim Lennon is Garage Manager

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

kiernan designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 16:39 Page 1 A selection of Kiernan’s tipper and articulated trucks

stablished in Balbriggan, Co. Dublin 32 years ago, Larry Kiernan Plant Hire is a thriving family-run business that prides itself on providing an unrivalled service to its customers. The plant hire and civil engineering specialist is wellknown throughout Dublin and surrounding counties for its high level of workmanship, professionalism and attention to detail. Larry and his team offer a top-class, reliable and cost-effective service which has earned the company many prestigious contracts

over the years. Larry Kiernan Plant Hire has been involved with some of the largest civil engineering projects carried out in Ireland and can count Fingal County Council and the M50 Concession among its list of clients. The company boasts a large fleet of trucks, excavators, bulldozers and tractors specifically for heavy civil engineering works. “We’ve our customers to thank for the length of time we’ve been in business,” Larry’s wife Bernie modestly says. “It has been hard going for

everyone over the past four or five years, but we’ve managed to stay in business and keep our staff numbers up because our customers have stayed loyal to us, and have always paid us, which is a great thing to be able to say in the current climate.” Starting out with a single JCB digger in 1981, Larry and Bernie have seen their business grow to become one of the largest of its kind in north Co. Dublin, with 28 staff currently on their books, including their son Ross, who is employed as a site foreman, and daughter

Melissa, who is a civil engineer by profession, and who is also responsible for health and safety. The Kiernan plant and trucks are a familiar sight on roads in and around the capital where most of their works are carried out. As well as operating five tippers (all Hino) and two articulated trucks (both Mercedes), Kiernan’s have six JCB Site Masters, four JCB Minidiggers, eight CAT excavators (315 to 330), three Komatsu bulldozers and two tractors. “Our machines come with a

Kiernan’s continue to set the highest standards For over 30 years, Larry Kiernan Plant Hire Ltd has been one of the foremost plant hire and civil engineering companies in Dublin. Company director Bernie Kiernan explains more. CONTACT DETAILS IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Larry Kiernan Plant Hire Ltd Grougha, Ring Commons, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin. Phone: 01-8412598 Fax: 01-8412435

kiernan designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 16:39 Page 2

Best Wishes To Larry Kiernan Plant Hire

Wishing Continued Success To Larry Kiernan Plant Hire, From

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kiernan designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 16:39 Page 3 Kiernan’s is one of the leading civil engineering companies in the capital

driver/operative 99 per cent of the time. We don’t hire out plant unless there’s a man with it,” Bernie stresses. Kiernan’s main customer over the years has been Fingal County Council. In the past 12 months, they completed work on a new graveyard in Balbriggan and have carried out upgrade works on the Kilshane Reservoir for the local authority. The new cemetery, which is known as Flemington Burial Ground, was opened in May after eight months of preparation work.

“We carry out a lot of work for Fingal County Council and have been working for them for many years now. We have a number of machines and drivers with them at all times. I’m delighted to say we have a great working relationship with them. We have to tender for the work every year just like everyone else, but we're delighted to be still involved with them,” Bernie explains.

During the Phase 2 upgrade works of the M50 which was overseen by M50 Concessions Ltd a few years ago, Larry Kiernan Plant Hire carried out ducting and drainage works at different locations along the m o t o r w a y, including at the Ballymun and S a n d y f o r d Interchanges and at the salt barn beside the old M50 Toll-bridge. The company, which secures a lot of work from the construction and farming sectors, is currently carrying out site clearance, drainage and related works on the site of Sam Dennigan & Company’s new state-of-theart chilled food warehouse facility in Oldtown, north Co. Dublin. Dennigan’s is one of Ireland’s biggest transport firms, employing 500 staff, and specialising in the handling of a wide range of

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

One of th

e CAT ex

cavators

An excavator on site

kiernan designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 16:39 Page 4

Best Wishes To Larry Kiernan Plant Hire From

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Best Wishes & Continued Success To Larry Kiernan Plant Hire IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

kiernan designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 16:39 Page 5

The Kiernan Plant Hire fleet

fresh produce from around the world. Larry and Bernie have clearly worked hard to make Larry Kiernan Plant Hire the company it is today. “At the start, it took a lot of hard work to get the business going, but from very humble beginnings, we have continued that hard work and are happy with the way the business has progressed over the years. There have been a lot of changes and there are many rules and regulations in place now that Kiernan’s is 32 years in business

wouldn't have been there before and all have to be adhered too. There is plenty of paperwork to be looked after. “The machinery has been updated on a regular basis over the years. It was important to do so and we kept adding to the plant as well. There are now over 50 pieces of machinery available for hire, ranging from onetonne mini-diggers to track machines, tipper lorries and other plant.” Bernie is fulsome in her

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

praise of the Kiernan staff who, she says, have played a big part in the company’s success. “There are people with us for 20 years or more. All are highly efficient and trained, and very good at what they do, which makes life that bit easier for us. You can be sure that when they go out on a job you don't have to worry and it will be done to the highest standard. There are no problems on that front. Our customers have built up a good rapport with them

also.” Looking to the future, Bernie is confident that Kiernan’s will continue to offer the best possible service to their customers. “The customer is king with us. We will always go out of our way to look after them. If we allow our standards to slip, we won’t get the business anymore. It’s as simple as that. So it’s very important to keep the customers happy,” she concludes.

adare designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 14:44 Page 1

The fleet consists of 16 HGVs

Chilled and frozen groupage; the full package CONTACT DETAILS 36

Adare International Transport Ltd. Ballinakill, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary Tel: 0505 21066 Fax: 0505 22068 Email: john@adaretransportltd.com www.adaretransportltd.com

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

adare designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 14:45 Page 2

t would probably be an exercise in understatement to point out that John Butler knows a thing or two about the transport industry. The MD of Adare International Transport Ltd. has been involved in the sector for almost 30 years, setting up the aforementioned company in 1994. Having opted to go out on his own, John started out with just two trucks and has developed the company over the intervening two

decades to the point where he now operates a fleet of 16 HGVs – a healthy mixture of Volvo, Scania and DAF – as well as 30 trailers (all fridges, apart from two tautliners). John specialises in refrigerated transport, specifically chilled and frozen groupage, overseeing a weekly service to France, Luxembourg, Switzerland and Belguim. In addition to this, Adare International Transport also provides chilled and frozen cold storage complete with

The company also has 30 trailers

blast-freezing facilities and boasts the only tempering unit in the Republic of Ireland (which enables them to fully and safely thaw frozen produce in just eight hours). The proprietor is pleased to

report that things are going well at present, despite the economic

downturn

sweeping the nation (and,

indeed, the continent): Business is going well,” John confirms. “Thirteen of the trucks would be on the continent full-time and we’re pleased with how that aspect of the business is progressing. We are very well organised and we have learned how to optimise everything right through the business. For example, we operate mostly tri-axles, so we can run at 44 and 46 tonnes all the time. “We are also big in cold storage with a facility here in Roscrea (TCL Cold Stores) and another one in Portlaoise (Lyonara Cold Stores) as well as a warehouse in Portlaoise. With the cold storage as well as the distribution, we can provide a full service from collection to delivery as well as everything in between.” Across the entire operation, John provides employment to a crew of 70 – an exceptional accomplishment in the current economic climate and a massive boost to the local economy. He admits that he has not been totally immune to the recession, however: “In late 2009 / 2010, I

When it comes to chilled and frozen food distribution and storage, Adare International Transport Ltd. provides a comprehensive service that is simply second to none. From its County Tipperary base, John Butler’s company oﬀers an unrivalled weekly Ireland – Europe groupage solution using a sophisticated fleet, experienced operatives and the very latest technology. Irish Trucker caught up with the hard-working founder / proprietor to get an insight into daily activities. IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

adare designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 14:45 Page 3

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adare designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 14:45 Page 4

Adare Transport Ltd are specialists in chilled and frozen food distribution and storage

downsized from twenty trucks

credit terms are tighter when

we’re more than happy with

to twelve, but I’ve grown it back up to 16 again and

that. Most of the drivers have

been with us for at least ten or twelve years. They have given us good service and we

try to look after them and keep them in work.”

In terms of technology, John

has every base covered to

ensure that he is optimising his fleet and getting the best possible

return,

which

enables his customers in turn to get the best possible deal:

“I use the Blue Tree fleet management system, which monitors location

everything

and

from

temperature

through to fuel usage on a daily basis.

“We buy 85% of our fuel

abroad because of the high

prices here at home. The

you do this and you have to

have a strong cash flow, but are

well-financed,

thankfully. Borrowing is down to zero and we manage our

LINDE MATERIAL HANDLING

overheads closely.

“Michael and Yan in the

office look after imports as

well as part purchasing and DOEs. We also have two full-

time mechanics who look after

the

fleet

in-house.

Robert is the head mechanic and

oversees

fleet

servicing and maintenance.”

The service offered is ultra-

flexible. “We are not tied down to anything,” John

notes. “We handle a lot of

pork, beef, lamb, cheese and

dairy products but we can transport literally any chilled

or frozen produce. You could

be delivering one box or 20 tonnes at a time for one

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

for all your forklift needs Wishing Adare Transport continued success

Discounted forklifts available at

www.usedforktrucks.ie 39

adare designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 14:45 Page 5

Adare Transport Ltd was started in 1994

customer. “As we operate our own cold storage, we can guarantee the cold chain from door to door, from pick-up to drop-off. Everything is handled in-house under one roof. We collect from our customers and consolidate the produce in our own cold stores, which are operated under Department of Agriculture control, before delivering the produce to its destination. All it takes is one phone call and then we will

look after everything from there.” How difficult is it to provide customers with reasonable rates? “It’s a very competitive market. Thankfully, all of our customers have been with us long term and I find that once you are providing a good service then there will be very little quibbling over the rates. When you are doing the job properly, as we do, it’s easy to strike a rate that is fair to both parties. “We concentrate on

Wishing Continued Success To Adare Transport, From

Commercial Body Builders (Templemore) Ltd Main Street, Templemore, Co. Tipperary

Tel: 00353 (504) 31397 Home: 00353 (504) 31975 Fax: 00353 (504) 31966 Mob: 00353 (87) 9795055 Email: cbb@eircom.net

providing

first-class

and are committed to what

delivery by 11am on Monday

close management. Daily

distribution service to all four

countries and we guarantee

morning at the latest. We collect the produce in Ireland

on Friday and start delivering

to the end user in France, Switzerland,

Luxembourg

and Belgium on Sunday.

That’s what we do every

week and it’s the same cycle every week, 52 weeks of the year, so we like to think we

have it down to a fine tee at this stage. We also do unit loads to those countries.”

With Adare International

Transport Ltd., John Butler

has developed a very strong business and he is justifiably confident going forward:

“We are growing year on

year, but that growth is slow,”

he concludes. “We are quietly confident. We are in the food sector which is a good area to

be operating in and I believe

that if you give a good service

you do, then you will get there. After that, it’s down to

monitoring of costs is what helps

you

ultimately.

survive,

“All the trucks are running at

their optimum. From the tyres to the fuel, you have to watch everything. We negotiate the fuel price on a week-to-week basis.

When

you

are

spending between €90,000 and €100,000 per month on fuel, a 1% swing is massive.

“We had the foresight to get

into the cold storage and that

has paid dividends. Myself

and my brother started up the cold

stores

and

they

complement the transport perfectly. We are in the

process of expanding the cold store capacity at both

Portlaoise and Roscrea, so all in all everything is moving forward.”

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

mcnulty designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 15:02 Page 1

Just some of the vehicles on show at McNulty Motors

McNulty’s pave the way

e sales of new vehicles has certainly diminished in recent years, but this has benefited the second hand trade as customers are far more price conscious than they were in the past. ungannon

based

McNulty Motors is celebrating

ten

years in business this year. Specialising

German

manufactured vehicles, this

With

many

years’

their success and to do this;

business.

had to find out the secret of

running of such a successful

in recent years, but their

experience in the vehicle

sales industry, Irish Trucker

we spoke to Stephen, who

gave us an insight into the

Stephen admits that the

market has certainly changed

Vehicles are sourced from all over the country and the UK

Tyrone based firm has built up a large customer base over the years.

Father and son team Enda

and Stephen McNulty offer a

comprehensive and reliable

service to their clients, who

come from across the 32 counties to avail of the quality service provided.

CONTACT DETAILS

McNulty Motors Tel. (028) 8774 7645 Enda Mob. 07801 644688 or 07739 262827 Fax. (028) 8774 9045 Web: www.mcnultymotors.co.uk email: enda@mcnultymotors.co.uk

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

mcnulty designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 15:02 Page 2

ability

customers’

meet

their

demands

has

stood them in good stead through these testing times. “The

vehicles

demand has

for

new

certainly

decreased a lot and the main

focus of interest is now second

hand

vehicles.

People just don’t have the money to spend on new vehicles like they use to have and this is mainly due to the

fact that banks are not releasing money as freely as they use to be,” he said.

“Our main problem now is

sourcing second vehicles.

There is a huge demand for

them, but people are not trading in as much as they use to be and they are

holding on to them for an extra few years.”

However, Stephen stated

that

through

their

large

customer base, they are ‘kept

going’ as many of their

customers are satisfied by the service provided.

“A lot of our custom would

be repeat. We carry all makes and

independent

trader, we carry a wide range

of vehicles. At any given time, there would be up to 60

vehicles on the premises here. We are dedicated to supplying excellent quality

vehicles. With many years of

so if the car, van or 4x4 you

deciding

what

we will endeavour to source

we offer. Please feel free to

experience in the motor trade we have a vast knowledge of to

look

for

when

sourcing our vehicles and are

always willing to give advice on the best vehicle to suit the customers' needs.

“As we are independent

importers we are able to give impartial and non-bias advice on all makes and models. We

are able to source and supply new UK imports. All imports are sold with manufactures

warranty so you can buy with confidence.

A wide range of quality used

vehicles are always in stock,

Best Wishes To McNulty Motors, From

require is not listed contact us with your requirements and your preferred vehicle.”

The company has grown

over the years to meet the much greater demands of the second

hand

market.

“Customer satisfaction is our

main priority and it is one that has stood us in good stead

over the years. We do our

best to give the customer the option to come back to us and we are pleased to say that has worked.

“Aftersales service is a

major factor to consider when

purchase

vehicle. As a result, we pride

ourselves with the facilities contact us regarding any aspect

service

and

maintenance to your vehicle.” McNulty's’ location has also

played a part in their success

as they are ideally situated close to the M1, which means

that they are accessible to both north and south of the

island. "We are based just of M1 junction 14 then 1.5 miles

along the A45 Ballynakilly road, on your right.” The

reputation

that

McNulty's have developed

Volkswagen Audi Bitz

Best Wishes to McNulty Motors, From

Breaking All Late Models | New Parts Available 11 Tamlaghtmore Road, Cookstown, Co. Tyrone BT80 9UT

Tel: 028 8676 6536

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

mcnulty designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 15:02 Page 3

Up to 60 vehicles are stocked on the premises

The business is run by the father and son team

over the years is another major

reason

for

their

success as quality vehicles are reasonable prices are

guaranteed. The fear of not

gaining finance for a vehicle can be off putting for many, but

Robinson’s

relationship companies burden.

with

eases

good

finance that

“We source all our vehicles

in the U.K here and we can tailor a finance package to suit our customers’ needs. We

have

many

years’

experience in this industry and we would be delighted to

help with any queries that a potential have.”

customer

may

Stephen admitted that due

the

current

economic

climate, they had no major plans to expand, but stressed

that their main aim was to continue the level of service

that they have been providing

over the course of the last decade.

“Definitely, if we can hold on

to what we have at the

moment, we will be happy

McNulty Motors is based in Dungannon, Co Tyrone

enough.

Our

customers

expect a high standard of service, quality vehicles at

reasonable prices and that is what we are trying to do.

“This is a very competitive

industry and you have to

Wishing Continued Success To McNULTY MOTORS, From

make sure that you stay

competitive, otherwise the customers

will

just

elsewhere. In saying that we

are delighted to have such a big

retention

customers.”

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

repeat

53D Gortgonis Road, Coalisland BT71 4QF Tel: 028 8774 7206 | Fax: 028 8774 6409 Email: gmcautoparts@yahoo.co.uk

J&F Designed_Layout 1 11/07/2013 14:30 Page 1

J&F Group delighted to oďŹ&#x20AC;er customers fiveyear warranty T

Over the last few years customers have become more price sensitive than in the past which means that manufacturers have had to come up with the best deals possible.

his applies to the motor trade also as the industry becomes more and more competitive. In the truck and light commercial sector, it is the same and on this front Mitsubishi are leading the way with their latest offer to customers.

CONTACT DETAILS 44

Mitsubishi Motors Ireland has announced the offer of a 5-year / 100,000km warranty as standard on all new Mitsubishi commercial vehicles, which is music to their customers' ears. Northern Ireland's leading Mitsubishi dealer is the J&F Group in Mallusk, Co. Antrim.

Sister company J&F Trucks is delighted to announce the five-year warranty on all Mitsubishi light commercials. Of the light commercial range on the market on the moment, the best seller is the 3.5 tonne canter is the lightest vehicle in the current Mitsubishi Fuso Line-up. The

Mitsubishi is the main brand stocked

J&F Group 43 Mallusk Road, Newtownabbey, Co Antrim BT364PP Tel: 0044 2890342019 e-mail: sales@jandfgroup.com

The Mitsubishi Fuso is a popular vehicle

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

J&F Designed_Layout 1 11/07/2013 14:30 Page 2

Canter range is one of the bestselling light trucks in Ireland for a number of reasons. Firstly, the canter has a reputation for being a rugged, reliable and a cost effective solution for companies who need to move large volumes of good on a standard car licence. Peace of mind is assured with Mitsubishi Fuso's 5 year/100,000km warranty. J&F Group sales manager John Paul Walsh explained to Irish Trucker that the new five year warranty had been warmly greeted by customers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The new canter was launched late last year and IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

J&F Group is Northern Irelan leading Mitsub dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ishi dealer s

J&F Designed_Layout 1 11/07/2013 14:30 Page 3

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J&F Designed_Layout 1 11/07/2013 14:30 Page 4

was already a popular choice of light commercial, but with the introduction of the fiveyear warranty, it has boosted sales even more,” said John Paul. The Canter comes in a variety of wheelbases designed to suit a wide range of applications. Around the roads of Ireland, Canters can be seen with Box vans, drop side, tippers and a host of other body types. The Mitsubishi Fuso Canter has a range of innovative features which makes it stand out from the competition. It comes with a choice of two different fuel engine 130PS and 150PS. “All these new engines feature an integrated exhaust brake and integrated low maintenance emission controls. This system features exhaust gas recirculation coupled with a closed diesel particulate filter. “The New Euro 5 Canter also features an all-new 5 speed gearbox, perfect for those longer runs on Ireland's new motorways. An optional DUONIC 6 speed automated gearbox is available. New Lightweight Truck Chassis: A sturdy new chassis design built to ensure maximum load

The new Canter has a five-year warranty

safety. The twin rear wheel design offers increased traction for operators especially on wet and muddy terrain. The parabolic spring design provides superior road contact and increased comfort on both laden and unladen vehicles. "The Mitsubishi range has always enjoyed a strong reputation for reliability and value for money. The offer of

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

an additional 2-years warranty on our commercial vehicle range will strengthen this reputation and provide commercial owners with additional peace of mind.” Mitsubishi Motors also provides a 12-year antiperforation warranty as well as 3-years home and roadside assistance as standard on all models. The J&F Group offer a wide

range of services to their large customer that not only includes sales and service of trucks and light commercials, but cars as well, while there is also a hire service available and John Paul admits that it is important to branch out. “During the current economic climate, it is very important to be able to diversify into other areas and we feel that with all the J&F Group stock a wide range of commercial vehicles

J&F Designed_Layout 1 11/07/2013 14:30 Page 5

J&F Group was established 41 yars ago

services that we offer, we can do that. “Customers are certainly more wary of the price these days and it is up to us to offer them the best deal possible and with the five-year warranty that is something that we feel we can do now.” John Paul is pleased by the amount of business the company is trading in these days. “Definitely business has increased over the last year or so. There was a lull there for a few years, but you can slowly see an improvement. We are fortunate in that our customers are from companies that can afford to buy new light commercials and trucks. The fact that the banks are unwilling to release money for loans has had a negative effect on the market and until they do start handing out loans, then it is hard to see the industry get back where it was. For 41 years now, the J&F Group has been supplying a top quality service to their customers. The family run

business which was started by brothers John and Frank Walsh, who are still involved in the day to day running of the business, has grown considerably over the years. As some of the most progressive people of his generation, the Walsh' worked closely with their customers to ensure

satisfaction was guaranteed. Through this close relationship; J&F Group developed a reputation for reliability and efficiency as they offered top quality vehicles at competitive prices. “We will be hoping to promote the Canter as much as possible over the coming

months and basically keep doing what we have been doing over the years.” J&F Trucks continue to satisfy their customers and every potential client will be treated with the utmost regard and having such experience behind them, the staff of 20 can deal with any inquiry made.

Continued Best Wishes To J&F Group

www.beattiesfreight.com

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

CPC designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 15:39 Page 1

You can’t sit in this drivers seat without a CPC qualification

ince 2008 for professional bus drivers and 2009 for professional truck drivers, it is a legal requirement that they pass and complete the CPC exam to gain their Driver CPC qualification. Drivers who obtained their bus licence on or before

September 9 2008, or their truck licence on or before September 9 2009, are automatically entitled to Driver CPC. This is called ‘acquired rights’. Failure to produce a valid Driver CPC can result in a fine of up to €2,000. A CPC is issued by the

Road Safety Authority to candidates who successfully pass the examination at the end of an authorised CPC course. The cert was introduced to set and maintain high standards of road safety, health and safety and driving among professional drivers of buses

and trucks. To become a professional bus or truck driver, one must pass the following: two-hour multiple choice theory test; two-hour case study theory test; 90-minutes driving test; 30-minute practical test. To keep your Driver CPC, you must complete 35 hours of

CPC is a must for truck and bus drivers For the past number of years, all professional truck and bus drivers in the EU must hold a Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence). To obtain this certificate, new drivers must pass the examination set by the Road Safety Authority (RSA). CONTACT DETAILS

Driver CPC CPC Unit, Road Safety Authority, Primrose Hill, Moy Valley Business Park, Ballina, Co. Mayo Email: cpc@rsa.ie Telephone: 096 25015

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CPC designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 15:39 Page 2

periodic training for five years following qualification. Training is on a one-day-peryear basis and will help you be: a better and safer driver; more environmentally and cost conscious; physically healthier. Training is provided in RSAapproved training centres by approved training providers. There are over 400 such centres located through Ireland which not only gives drivers a wide choice of locations, but also helps to keep standards high and facilities a competitive marketplace. The RSA monitors training standards of all trainers to ensure a high standard. To be approved by the RSA, training centres must provide evidence of quality standards

in relation to: premises; trainer qualifications; records management; policies. Those interested in entering the Driver CPC training industry can download the guidelines for the Approval of Driver CPC Training Centres or the application form from the RSA website (rsa.ie). To book a Driver CPC theory test, Lo-call: 1890 60

61 06 or go to www.theorytest.ie. To book a Driver CPC driving and practical test, Lo-call: 1890 50 60 80 or go to the RSA’s online booking facility. The option of attending training in RSA-approved training centres to help you prepare for your Driver CPC exam is also available. The deadline for Driver CPC

Education is the key

training is drawing near, with EU directive stating that all professional drivers must complete 35 hours of periodic training by September 10 2013 (for buses) or September 10 2014 (for trucks). Driver CPC certification is not required for drivers of vehicles used for: noncommercial purposes, e.g. driving as a volunteer, drivers of emergency or rescue vehicles; registered RSA approved Driving Instructors who are giving driving instruction; in the course of someone’s work, provided that driving the vehicle is not the driver’s principal occupation; vehicles with a maximum speed not exceeding 45km/h. The new Driver CPC theory test is mandatory for all new professional drivers. Drivers must first pass the learner permit theory test and obtain their learner permit as normal. This test is a 100 multiple choice question, with 61 correct answers needed to pass. A second theory test consists of three case studies. There are 45 questions in all, and to pass, one must correctly answer 28 questions – a minimum of five questions per study. Each stage takes two hours and it’s possible to take both tests on the same day. Prometric Ireland, which runs the learner permit theory test, also carries out Driver CPC theory tests which cost €72 each. The CPC practical test is conducted in the driving test centre and is usually taken directly after the driving test. A vehicle is required for this

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

CPC designed_Layout 1 09/07/2013 15:40 Page 3

session. It is a practical knowledge test lasting halfan-hour and covers areas such as: safety, passenger comfort; legal matters relating to driving; vehicle loading and stability; ability to deal with an emergency; physical risks involved in driving. When you have passed the two Driver CPC theory tests, the driving test and practical test, you will be issued with a Driver CPC qualification card. Driver education brings with it multiple benefits, including better safety, lower running costs and greener driving. Better driving skills lead to fewer casualties, thereby making our roads safer. Improved driving skills also save on the costs of vehicle repairs and loss of trade. Research has shown that by driving safely and carefully, drivers can save an average of 40 per cent in gearbox repairs and 60 per cent in safety-related faults. In addition, studies suggest that good driving can deliver a 12 per cent saving on fuel costs.

This new training requirement fundamentally changes how professional drivers acquire and retain their qualifications. Driver CPC is changing the perception that to become a bus or truck driver, you just need to pass a test. Rather, it is seen as a profession than requires on-going training and skill development. The annual training course consists of six modules, each lasting seven hours, with additional reading material to cover specific areas. The modules are as follows: control of the vehicle and eco-driving techniques; minimising risks and managing emergencies in the transport industry; health and safety for the professional driver; role of the professional driver in the transport industry; the professional truck driver; the professional bus driver. Drivers who have already started their Driver CPC periodic refresher training can now view their own CPC

training record online. Their personal record shows which modules have been completed, how long until you need to complete your next module and which CPC training organisation has provided the training. To access your Driver CPC training records, go to the RSA website and click on MY CPC. You will then need to register using your driver number, email address and date of birth. You must have a valid email address to use

the CPC Driver portal as this is where the system will send your password to allow you to access the portal. If there are any differences between your online records of CPC Training and the training you believe you have actually completed, you should contact your CPC Training provider to establish where the differences arise and, if appropriate, ask them to resolve this with the RSA database.

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pepper_Layout 1 09/07/2013 17:34 Page 1

Pepper Dromore and Thompson Feeds have a long standing working relationship

Dedicated service and integrity are the keys to success e haulage industry is one of the most competitive businesses to be involved in, especially during the current economic climate. Rising fuel costs, increases in the price of equipment and vehicles and pressure on rates,make it more diﬃcult to make profit. CONTACT DETAILS 52

Pepper (Dromore) Limited 43 Lower Quilly Road, Dromore, Co. Down, BT25 1NL Tel: 02892692618/02892692364 Email: mark.pepper@pepper-group.com/derek.pepper@pepper-group.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

pepper_Layout 1 09/07/2013 17:34 Page 2

nfortunately many hauliers have gone out of business due to the recession. However other haulage companies have the experience to deal with what life throws at them and, when it comes to experience not many can rival Co Down based Pepper (Dromore) Ltd. This family run business goes back three generations to the 1930's when Fred Pepper operated two trucks. When road transport was nationalised Fred was offered the position of transport manager, in Banbridge depot, with NIRTB (Northern Ireland Road Transport Board), later named UTA (Ulster Transport Authority). Fred's son Alan became involved in 1965, when

there was a requirement for transport to deliver bagged feed from the Banbridge depot to local farmers, for

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

feed companies such as Lever Bros., Crossfields, Silcocks, and a few others. Later as the work increased Derek bought a lorry and they

continued delivering bagged feed throughout N Ireland. In 1970 there was an opportunity to deliver feed by bulk blower lorries, so a bulk vehicle was purchased. The business continued to grow and in 1998 became a limited company. At present there are 20 lorries including 5 rigids, and 18 trailers. Most of the trailers have donkey engines to operate the blowers, and rear steer axles to allow easier access to farms. Derek's son Mark is heavily involved in the day to day running of the business and he spoke to Irish Trucker about the operation of the company and gave his views on the haulage industry in general. "My grandfather started in the haulage business in the 1930's, while the current business started in 1965. We specialise in bulk transport, our main business being bulk delivery of animal feed to farmers,and raw materials into feed mill. Our main customer is John Thompson & Sons based in Belfast." Having had their own workshop for many years Pepper Dromore Ltd now sub out the repairs and maintenance work to local garages, also investing in new equipment on a yearly basis. Tractor units are replaced usually every five to seven years and trailers a bit longer, the longer term plan is to reduce the age at which all trucks and trailers are replaced. Animal feed is Belfast dock drawn from s to farmers

pepper_Layout 1 09/07/2013 17:34 Page 3

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Best Wishes & Continued Success To Pepper Dromore Ltd

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pepper_Layout 1 09/07/2013 17:34 Page 4

Maintenance is paramount as breakdowns are costly, cause a lot of downtime and affect the service we give. Scania and Volvo have been our preferred trucks but there are a lot of good vehicles out there worth investigating. "New trucks mean happy drivers, which is crucial as they are our first point of contact with customers." Mark was wholesome in his praise of staff, many of whom have been with the company for many years. "We have 20 drivers and they are all very dedicated to the business and courteous to customers, which is vital. Many of the drivers have been with the company for over ten years and one has been here from 1994. They are all good at their job, which makes the business run that bit smoother. Our office manager

Scania is the preferred choice of truck

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Heather Hamilton has been with us from 1984 and she is renowned for her dedication to customer service. Over the years Heather has ensured that everything runs like clockwork. She has given an unrivalled commitment and dedication to the company." The key to a successful business is dedication to service and Pepper Dromore Ltd strives to achieve that goal on a daily basis. "The company has been built up through many years of hard work by my father and uncle, their main aim being to provide a high level of service to our customers, and that is something we feel we must do in order to be successful and competitive. Derek's wife Ann, (my mother) is a very important member of the team, offering her knowledge and hospitality to all.

The fleet is well maintained

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pepper_Layout 1 09/07/2013 17:34 Page 5

The company specialises in builk haulage

Pepper Dromore Ltd have a sister company, Pettrans, which specialises in fuel, oil and gas distribution the 32 counties. This is a growing business that was purchased 7 years ago. This business is located at Maze, Lisburn, Co Antrim and is run by cousin Garth assisted by his father Alan. Another service that the family provides is warehousing and through their 100,000sq. ft. warehouse, situated at Mallusk, Co. Antrim, they offer an extensive area to customers. "This is managed by Wallace another uncle. The warehousing is split into 60,000sq. ft. cold storage and 40,000sq. ft. ambient storage. We have a number of customers availing of these services" added Mark. The Pepper family are also successful dairy farmers, and this year Dereks other son Neal, who manages the farm won Supreme Dairy Champion at Balmoral Show with their Holstein cow.

This is certainly families at work. Despite the problems that have hit the haulage industry in recent years, Mark says they have not made any cutbacks, but are running the business more efficiently.

"We have monitored fuel consumption a lot closer and are more conscious of savings that can be made by attention to various aspects of the day to day operation. Profitability is the key issue in any business and savings

have to be made in all decisions taken. As regards expansion we are looking to source new customers and establish relationships, our aim being to continue doing what we do best."

SUMMER Best Wishes To PEPPER DROMORE LTD IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

IRISH & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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By Post Fill out the attached application form and send it by post accompanied with a cheque or postal order (made payable to Lynn Group) for the correct amount to Irish Trucker Magazine, DG Press Ltd., Kells Business Park, Kells, Co. Meath By Email Enclose your postal address and credit card details (Card type, number and expiry date) to contact@lynngroupmedia.com A receipt will be enclosed with your first magazine. Any further inquiries can be made to contact@lynngroupmedia.com

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electric skyline designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 16:26 Page 1

Electric Skyline directors from l/r: Bryan Fox, Brendan Reilly, Sean Corcoran

Lighting up Ireland Correct Article: Public lighting is something that we take for granted as every city and town in the country is excellently lit up at night time. CONTACT DETAILS 58

Electric Skyline Limited Ballyglass, Claremorris, Co. Mayo Tel: 094 9360954 Fax: 094 9360827 www.electricskyline.ie IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

electric skyline designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 16:26 Page 2

“We identified an opportunity to provide a quality service of all types of exterior Public/street lighting for local authorities, sports clubs and local industry. Our company has 20 years depth, practical knowledge and experience of all types of exterior lighting,” revealed Sean. Not alone have the three directors amassed many years’ experience in the industry, but their staff has also garnered plenty of knowledge in this sector. “Our Lighting Engineer is Seamus McDermott and he would have worked all his life with the ESB and his experience is vital to the success of this company. All our staff, who strive to meet our customers’ needs, are highly trained and have a background in electrical work. We would do 90% of the work ourselves, with just the civil work subbed out.” Electric Skyline Limited has

A number of been carried contracts have out for the ES B

or driving purposes, it is essential to have well lit areas for drivers to have a better view of what’s happening around them and for pedestrians; safety is a major issue as nobody likes walking in dark or dim places. However, to ensure that we always have light is left to a handful of electrical maintenance companies. One such business is Electric Skyline Limited, which was formed by Sean Corcoran, Brendan Reilly and Bryan

Fox in 2007. It may be suggested that a company only six years in existence may not have the experience of other firms in the same industry, but that is certainly not the case with this Mayo based service provider. All three men have many years’ experience working with the ESB Contracts before they decided to start their own business and Sean tells Irish Trucker about the many services that they provide.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

electric skyline designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 16:26 Page 3

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Electric Skyline, from

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electric skyline designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 16:26 Page 4

developed with careful emphasis on safety, quality and service. “It is our intention to develop and modernise our services and to satisfy our customer's needs on an ongoing basis. We take great pride in our customer's perception of us and continually strive to improve.” “We are in the process of implementing ISO 9001 Quality Management System and ISOH 18001 Health & Safety Management System this will enhance our already excellence service and commitment to our customers” Based in Claremorris, Co Mayo, Electric Skyline offer a turnkey service in that not only do the install public and private lighting, they also offer a maintenance service and this has kept them busy.

“The Services we provide are: public street lighting maintenance for local authorities; design of lighting projects; Installation of new projects; maintenance and upgrade of existing lighting; surveying of existing lighting systems. “At present we are responsible for maintaining over 50,000 street lights for local Authorities throughout Connacht and the Midlands, we provide monthly night patrols are our repair times are 2nd to none” We have saved the local Authorities in question over 50% on their previous years maintenance cost and we did this with improved service” “we also provide a public lighting design and installation service to 11 Local Authorities and are looking to

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expand into other areas” By maintaining the lighting in Mayo, we managed to save their local authority €215,000 on their previous years costs, which is a massive saving. Providing a top class service is essential in any business and we pride

ourselves on the service that we provide our customers, but these days everyone is a lot more price conscious then they were in the past and we have to be competitive when it comes to pricing jobs. “When you choose Electric Skyline, you are choosing a

The company has many years experience in electrical contracting

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

electric skyline designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 16:27 Page 5

Electric Skyline have numerous contracts with county councils

brand you can trust at a price you can afford. An exceptional after sales service means that your queries will be answered by the team 24 hours a day seven days a week. Electric Skyline is an Irish company with Irish suppliers, so there's no delay getting projects completed on time and within budget,” added Sean. Electric Skyline Limited have successfully tendered for projects, but Sean admits that they must keep their standards up or the work will go elsewhere. “The work has to be carried out to the highest standard. Since we started six years ago, we have grown every year and we are always looking at ways of improving the business and the service provided.

“We know that we must keep doing this as it is a competitive industry. There is a lot of legislation to be adhered too when tendering for a project, so it can take a while to actually start a job. However, the maintenance side of the business means that we are always busy.” Electric Skyline are proactive with all health and safety issues. The company takes its responsibility serious in terms of the implementation and monitoring of all current health and welfare legislation. “Health and Safety is paramount and there is a huge emphasis placed on that area.” As stated, Electric Skyline Limited also cater for the public sector and in particular sports ground where they

have completed a number of projects. Some of these include the Kildare GAA Centre of Excellence at Hawkfield, Newbridge where four full size pitches and one training pitch were developed. Floodlighting was erected by Electric Skyline on each pitch. The Leitrim GAA Centre of Excellence; Annaghdown GAA Club; Carlow Institute of Technology; Arklow Town FC; Knock Kiltimagh FC; Moycullen GAA club; Moyne Villa FC and the Moyneville Headford to name just a few. A major focus of the company is now on energy efficient lighting and Electric Skyline have a proven track record in this. “ With our lighting engineer focused on delivering the most economical lighting and still

ensuring the standard are met we have saved energy of up-to 70% on some projects” Some major LED lighting projects we have carried out are Longford Main Street, Edgeworthstown, NUIG, Castlebar Main Street, NRA LED Pilot Castlebar, Tuam Town Centre, Greenway Westport to name a few. Sean admits that to keep the company growing at the rate it has been over since its genesis in 2007, they need to attract more work and he stressed that they are always seeking new projects. “We are always seeking new projects and are interested in talking to anybody about potential work. It is our aim to keep building the company and ensure that its reputation is known throughout the country.”

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

IT’S A ONE VAN SHOW. NEW FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM

You can get the show on the road from €53 ex. VAT per week*.

Transit Custom – International Van of The Year 2013.

ford.ie/transitcustom Ford Transit Custom Finance Example: Term 60 Months. Retail Price €18,252. Deposit/Part Exchange €5,667. Finance Advance €12,585, 60 monthly payments of €229.66. Total cost of credit €1,258.09. *Lending criteria and terms and conditions apply. Finance is generally provided by way of a fixed rate Business Lease agreement. Finance example is based on a fixed rate APR of 3.9% and includes a once off documentation fee of €63.49. To qualify for this Finance Offer; a minimum deposit of 20% and a maximum term of 61 months applies. Rate quoted is correct as at 1st May 2013 and is subject to change. This offer is available on all Ford Transit Custom models registered by 30th June 2013. The amounts shown above are exclusive of Value Added Tax and all payments will be subject to Value Added Tax at the appropriate rate. The weekly payment shown is indicative only, all amounts are payable monthly. The credit provider is Ford Credit which is a registered trading name of Bank of Ireland Leasing Ltd. Excludes delivery and related charges. Model is shown for illustrative purposes only.

75104329 Transit_Irish Trucker_A4.indd 1

02/05/2013 12:37

topaz designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 15:38 Page 1

he recent Finance bill contained welcome news for the haulage industry with the announcement of the essential fuel tax rebate. The bill was subsequently

extended to include coach hire operators and the rebate has been hailed as a vital step towards helping to save jobs and stabilise across the two industries. The price of diesel has been

a bone of contention for longer than those involved in the transport sector would care to remember. This new initiative will help ease the burden on hardpressed hauliers and coach

operators and Topaz is playing its part. With a choice of over 330 branded service stations strategically located around Ireland, convenience wise, there is no competing with

Play the right card e fuel tax rebate for hauliers and coach hire operators came into eﬀect on July 1st. Still undecided on what Fuel Card best suits your needs? Look no further than Topaz, Ireland's largest fuel and convenience brand. Topaz who have recently been approved as a supplier under the Diesel Rebate Scheme, are one of the first fuelcard providers to receive approval. CONTACT DETAILS 64

Topaz For more information you can call Topaz’ Customer Service Team on 091 482900 or 1890 32 32 32 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

topaz designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 15:38 Page 2

the Topaz Fuel Card. “Essentially it’s a scheme the Government has introduced which will benefit both the haulage and coach industries by returning a percentage of the duty they spend on diesel in the running of their businesses,” explained John Watson, Fuel Card manager at Topaz. “We met with the Revenue Commissioners on two or three occasions and we were confident we would receive approval. With the Scheme just launched we are delighted now to announce that we have been approved as a supplier under the Diesel Rebate Scheme” “As the number one fuel card supplier in the country, we intend to be at the front and centre of it and we have IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

topaz designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 15:38 Page 3

captions

a dedicated staff of 11 who look after our Fuel Card service.” This relief applies to purchases made on or after July 1st this year and will work on a sliding scale based on the pump price of diesel before Vat. The maximum rebate payment will be 7.5c per litre of diesel. To qualify for the repayment, road haulage operators in the state must hold either an international road haulage operator's licence or a national road haulage operator's licence, issued under the Road Traffic and Transport Act 2006. Road haulage operators established in another member state must hold an equivalent licence recognised under EU law. Bus operators in the state, meanwhile, will be required to hold an international road passenger operator's licence or a national road passenger operator's licence issued under the Road Traffic and Transport Act 2006. Bus operators established in another member state must hold an equivalent licence recognised under EU law. “If qualifying hauliers and

coach operators can prove their diesel spend, they then claim back the rebate," John added. “There is a very onerous reporting process to be complied with. It is basically a self-assessment model and the Revenue will then come to the Fuel Card supplier to verify the spend on diesel over the period. “It will be a three month claim period when hauliers and coach operators will have a short 20 day window in which to submit their claims. They supply the information and we will then be asked to verify it.

“We have put considerable resources into this to make sure we comply with all the requirements. We’re a step ahead of our competitors in that regard.” The Topaz Fuel Card has been developed to give companies with three or more cars, vans or similar vehicles a safe, secure and convenient method of paying for fuel. Using the growing EDC network, with over 3,500 sites in 21 countries and the company’s tailored pricing system, the Topaz International Fuel Card covers all the needs of the

international transport operator. Customers can keep up to date with their latest account and transaction information on-line. Aside from the savings to hauliers and coach operators, John predicts the rebate scheme will come as a badly needed shot in the arm for the oil sector in Ireland. “I expect it will lead to national hauliers, who currently buy their diesel abroad, to come back to Ireland. And likewise, international hauliers might consider Ireland as a place to buy their diesel. “We, uniquely amongst suppliers in Ireland, have a very large Service Station at Dublin Port which is a major destination in itself. Drivers entering or leaving Ireland via Dublin port can use their fuelcards and it is equally popular with companies dropping off or collecting loads within the Port. Our Dublin Port Service Station operates 24hrs per day, 7 days per week and provides excellent facilities for drivers – Parking, Restaurant, Showers, Drivers Lounge, Deli and Shop” You can apply for a Topaz Fuel Card online now at www.topazcard.ie.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

karl lafferty designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 16:14 Page 1 captions

Primed and ready to hit the road

he Lafferty family has been synonymous with road haulage in Donegal and beyond for many decades. Karl Lafferty took over the family business when his father Jim – who served the transport industry for a lifetime - passed away and he decided to set up a limited company: Karl Lafferty Transport started trading in January, 2006. “My father would have been involved in both passenger and freight transport,” Karl notes. “We decided to separate the two companies – I took over the freight and my brother Seamus took over the buses.” As its core business, Karl Lafferty Transport

specialises in a next-day (24hour) UK-Ireland service, distributing car parts islandwide to motor factors and garages. Having been a temporary member previously, Karl also agreed to rejoin The Pallet Network (TPN) in November, 2012 – an inspired move which has led to a substantial expansion of the overall business: “The concept of the network is such that the deliveries we do in Donegal would be on behalf of other companies, so that doesn’t actually benefit us. However, the expansion would come from the increased business from our own Donegal-based customers, whom we collect

from and distribute nationwide. “We started off with just three or four pallets but have grown that up to 60 outward pallets. That growth has been achieved hand in hand with The Pallet Network. When we joined, we actively went out seeking new business, knowing that we would be offering a next-day, countrywide delivery service, from Donegal to Castletownbere and anywhere in between, all through the central hub in Dublin. “At the moment, we have nine or ten trucks a day working in The Pallet Network.” That’s from an overall fleet

of 21 vehicles – eleven rigids, seven tractor units and a few vans. Indeed, even though he’s operating a large fleet already, Karl believes that he’s close to full capacity and will have to consider increasing the size of his fleet: “All the trucks are out working on a daily basis,” he confirms. “We probably don’t have enough and I’m going to have to invest in more units.” Karl operates mainly DAF and Volvo tractor units, while the smaller distribution units are MAN and Renault. Most of the maintenance work on the company’s vehicles is carried out in-house. The UKbased trucks are managed from a base in Dublin, while

On the up and up Since becoming the newest member of e Pallet Network in November, Donegal-based Karl Laﬀerty Transport has experienced significant growth. Irish Trucker popped into the Ballybofey depot to take a closer look at this excellent operation. CONTACT DETAILS 68

Karl Lafferty Transport Navenny, Ballybofey, Co. Donegal Tel: 074f 9175200/9190186 Email: sales@karllaffertytransport.ie IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

karl lafferty designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 16:15 Page 2 captions

Karl Lafferty Transport joined The Pallet Network in November, 2012

the domestic lorries are serviced and maintained at the Donegal HQ. At present, Karl Lafferty Transport provides gainful employment to a team of 23 and the proprietor says he’s satisfied with the direction his company is heading in: “Overall, we are very happy with how things have gone since we joined The Pallet Network in November,” he says. “I’m absolutely delighted with the expansion we’ve achieved in Donegal, where we actually had no business at all up until late last year. I started with four trucks in Donegal and was up to ten or eleven within six months.” By any standards, this is a phenomenal growth spurt – but has that market now been saturated? “I’d say we have swallowed a large portion of it up at this stage,” Karl concedes. “But we are still seeking new business. IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

All Karl Lafferty vehicles are maintained in pristine condition

“Having said that, we’re not going to be doing anything rash – new business and expansion costs money, so you have to be cautious about how you proceed. If we’re going to grow, we will do so within our means. We are growing at a rate that we can manage financially.” There are now two distinct strands to Karl’s business: the UK-Ireland work is under contract and comprises motor parts exclusively, while, as TPN’s Donegal depot, he provides a vast groupage service, carrying literally anything. That aspect of the business had grown from one initial customer to 60 or 70 customers at the time of writing. “It’s a dramatic departure for us,” Karl continues. “We had been involved in The Pallet Network on a shortterm basis before but we have come in long-term this time, as groupage is now a

karl lafferty designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 16:15 Page 3

S&R Motors (Donegal) Ltd

Best Wishes To Karl Lafferty Transport, From

Volkswagen Retailer Of The Year 2013

New & Used Volkswagen Cars & Commercials Full Volkswagen Service & Parts Department

Donegal Town | Tel: 074 9723462

F: 074 9723464 | E: sales@srmotors.ie

Best Wishes To Karl Lafferty Transport We deal in quality used tractor units, tippers, trailers, refrigerated trailers and plant. As well as supplying trucks and refrigerated trailers locally we also welcome enquiries from international companies. We are experienced in the export shipping and transportation of vehicles to the Continent and Middle East.

www.thomastowntrucks.com

Unit 9, Centrepoint Business Park, Carrickcarnon, Dundalk, Co. Louth

Tel: +353 42 938 0605 - Fax: +353 42 938 0544 Mobile: +353 86 252 4597

Best Wishes To Karl Lafferty Transport, From

Wishing Continued Success To Karl Lafferty Transport, From

Donegal Commercial Vehicles Ltd T/A McDaid Bros TACHOGRAPH & SPEED LIMITER AGENTS VEHICLE PLATING

24 HOUR RECOVERY SERVICE

Ballybofey Road, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal Tel: 074 9121005 (Day) Fax: 074 9124257 Email: mcdaidbros@eircom.net

FAST FIT SCREENS Wishing Karl Lafferty Transport Ltd Continued Success

MOBILE WINDSCREEN SERVICE Largest Stockist Of Commercial Windscreens In The North West

074 9147105 | M: 086 2106224

CONVOY, CO. DONEGAL

Motor Factors Car and Light Commercial Spares Hydraulic Hose Repair Navenny, Ballybofey, Co. Donegal

T: 074 9132423 • M: 087 6120368 F: 074 9132403 • E:stephenlawne@hotmail.com

The Pallet Network

Bringing worldclass distribution to every county in Ireland

Best Wishes To Our Donegal TPN Member Karl Lafferty Transport Email: sales@tpn.ie Telephone: (01) 8219999

Key features include:

For

KINGMAN Truck Seats contact

T: +353 23 8838038 F: +353 23 8838057 E: gearoid@jmcparts.com www.jmcparts.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

karl lafferty designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 16:15 Page 4

lot more appealing to us now than it was a few years ago.” Very much a hands-on proprietor, Karl oversees the entire business himself and the buck stops with him. He is always available to answer queries and is on call 24/7. FleetMatics GPS fleet and vehicle tracking software is used to monitor the movement and fuel usage of

the trucks and Karl is joined in the office by Caroline, who helps out greatly with the day-to-day running of the business. “The Pallet Network are excellent to work with and their trackand-trace information systems are easy to operate and it was a

Karl operates a fleet of 21 vehicles in total

Donegal ... home of champions!

smooth transition. In fact, joining has helped my business as a whole because I’ve introduced that system to my overall business as well. You need to be up to speed on the latest technology and systems and, these days, you have to be office-based and know your way around computers.” Of course, Karl would be nowhere without his drivers

and his final words of appreciation are for them: “I’m delighted with my drivers. They are very co-operative and they are doing a fantastic job. The UK lads have been with me for years and I couldn’t say a bad word about any of them. I’ve also taken on a new batch of lads in November and they are also doing a fantastic job.”

Part of the attractive Karl Lafferty Transport fleet IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

polonez designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 15:34 Page 1 Rezmerita Plus is the transport division of Polonez

rom humble beginnings (with one small shop in Naas, County Kildare in 2003), Polonez has expanded at an impressive rate to currently boast a total of 30 stores across the island of Ireland, including its first Northern Ireland outlet in Newry, County Down. Employing around 150 people – a mixture of Irish, Polish, Lithuanian and Latvian nationals - across its retail and distribution operations, Polonez is the most successful Polish-owned and –managed business in

Ireland. “We run a very good chain of Eastern European stores,” notes company manager Volodymyr Lapunyak. “We have the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene throughout the group and we service our customers with a wide range of foodstuffs, including fresh meats and fresh fruit and veg. “We decided to set up our own distribution company, having previously worked everything through a Cash & Carry, and Rezmerita Plus Ltd. was formed in February, 2006 to import into Ireland

our own fresh produce, most of which is sourced in Poland, as well as Germany and Lithuania.” Rezmerita Plus Ltd. is the Wharehouse and transport division of Polonez - the leading retailer of Polish and Eastern European foods in Ireland. Established by managing director Adrian Rezmerita, this family-run business specialises in the retail food sector and international haulage to and from Europe, providing its customers with quality, value, innovation and trust in all its products and service.

Based in Cloverhill Industrial Estate, Clondalkin, Dublin 22, Rezmerita’s head office is located just off Exit 9 from the M50 motorway, its proximity to the M1 and Port Tunnel providing easy access to any location in Ireland. This prime location enables them to service the entire country in a cost-effective and efficient manner. As well as importing Eastern European foodstuffs, Rezmerita offers a competitive haulage service to destinations throughout Europe, delivering products punctually and at a reasonable rate into Poland,

Poles apart In the ten years since its inception, Polonez / Rezmerita Plus Ltd. has developed at a rapid rate into Ireland’s premier Polish retail and distribution company. Irish Trucker met up with company manager Volodymyr Lapunyak to get an insight into this amazing success story. CONTACT DETAILS 72

Rezmerita Plus Ltd./Polonez Unit 1, Cloverhill Industrial Estate, Clondalkin, Co. Dublin Tel: 01 4576888 Email: info@polonez.ie IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

polonez designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 15:34 Page 2

The firm set up its own distribution company in 2006

Lithuania, Latvia, Germany,

deliveries. Customers are

vehicles allows the team at

delivery solution, using either

Eastern Europe and the UK. Constant

monitoring

Rezmerita Plus Ltd. to control

all European collections and

As well as being customer-

offered a complete, driver-

friendly,

chilled / frozen trailers or box

compliant. All staff members

accompanied, door-to-door bodies.

all

experienced

drivers

and

are

highly-

skilled, fully trained and ADR are proficient with information

technology,

and

delivery

systems are backed up by a state-of-the-art system.

tracking

The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impressive,

modern,

high-spec

fleet

Part of the modern fleet

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

polonez designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 15:34 Page 3

We wish continued success to Polonez Group, from their accountants, taxation & business advisors

L’Estrange & Co.

Chartered Accountants & Registered Auditors

If you or your company require advice, please do not hesitate to contact us today on 01-2780811, and let us help you to achieve great success with your business. T: 01 2780811 | F: 01 2780949 | M: 086 2558979 | E: barry@lestrangeco.com | www.lestrangeco.com

PRIME TYRES LTD.

Best Wishes To Polonez Razmerita Plus Ltd, From

Tyres & Batteries MOBILE BREAKDOWN SERVICE

Best Wishes & Continued Success To POLONEZ RAZMERITA PLUS LTD From All At

Unit 3, Clondalkin Commercial Park, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 Email: primetyres@hotmail.com

Tel: 4570734 | 4570967 Mobile: 087 2633792

Best Wishes To Polonez Razmerita Plus Ltd From

We protect homes and businesses throughout Ireland. With 20 years experience we have been setting the benchmark for quality installations and service countrywide.”

INTRUDER ALARMS | CCTV | REMOTE MONITORING

www.amptech.ie

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Polonez Razmerita Plus Ltd, From

COMMERCIAL FLEET INSURANCE SPECIALISTS

Dolcan House 80 Tower Rd, Clondalkin Dublin 22.

T: 00-353-1-4573100 F: 00-353-1-4573815 E: info@mginsure.ie | www.mginsure.ie Marine and General Insurances Limited and Marine & General Insurances Limited t/a Clondalkin Mortgage Centre,Marine & General Insurances & Financial Services is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

wOULD yOU LIkE yOUR COmPANy FEATURED IN

IRISh TRUCkER & LIghT COmmERCIALS mAgAzINE

Call BARRy now on 00353 74

(0) 46 9241923

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

polonez designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 15:34 Page 4

comprises five tractor units,

Polonez’ suppliers are a

five rigids three vans and five

select group of nearly 50 well-

a mix of Mercedes and Volvo

products.

state-of-the-art

refrigerated

trailers. The lorries are mainly

and a team of 13 drivers is employed,

internationally

six

and

doing domestic work.

working seven

“We are still expanding,”

says Volodymyr. Our central hub is in Clondalkin but we have recently moved to a new

state of the art facility, a larger premises

which

will

incorporate 50,000 sq ft of storage space.

“We also supply Eastern

European produce to other

known and trusted partners

who offer a quality range of All

items

are

sourced carefully in terms of

quality and sold to the end user at the best-possible price.

As Rezmerita Plus Ltd. is on hand

ensure

that

all

distribution is carried out in-

house, overheads are kept to a minimum and these savings are passed on in the form of

the best-possible value to everyday customers in the shops nationwide.

Fresh goods are collected

Retail outlets in Ireland such

from Poland three times a

planning to open more shops

nationwide - promptly and in

as Supermarkets and other tied

retailers.

We’re

also

under the Polonez brand and also to provide a distribution /

Cash & Carry service for other stores. This would mean we would have to substantially

increase the size of our fleet of trucks.”

Around 60,000 customers

visit Polonez’ shops on a regular basis. The majority of

these would be Polish, while around 25% are made up of

other Eastern Europeans as well as Irish people who have

started to purchase more and more Polish food.

The stores stock about 5,000

different lines of food, 90% of which

imported

from

Poland. As well as standard

grocery products, the stores

also stock non-essential but

week and these are distributed

from the Irish warehouse excellent condition. Polonez

ensures and guarantees a

closed supply chain, with no

interference from any third parties.

Polonez / Rezmerita Plus is

also the exclusive importer of the world’s best Moldovan wines, “Cricova”, as well as “MILESTI MICI”. All

shop

assistants

are

trained to the highest possible

standard and are courteous, polite

and

Regular, ensures

well-educated.

ongoing

that

the

training

highest

standards of customer service are

maintained

and

that

service is as outstanding as the products themselves.

This professional approach

to customer care is one of the

counter, where fresh meats,

resounding success story to

desirable

items

such

sweets, drinks and high quality wines. Each shop has a meat

sausages and cheeses are available,

customer’s

cut

requirements.

the

exact

many reasons why Polonez /

Rezmerita Plus has been a date; it looks certain that there

are a few more chapters still to be written in this particular story!

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Polonez/Rezmerita Plus has developed into Ireland’s premier Polish retail and distribution company

al read designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 15:57 Page 1

Part of the company fleet based in Dublin

l Read Electrical Co. Ltd. is very much a family business, fronted by founder and Chairman Al and also with a vital input from his sons Paul , Phil as directors and wife Frances (Company Secretary). Reflecting on the genesis of the business, which occurred back in 1980, Phil notes:

“Dad had a background in Traffic Signal installation and maintenance with GEC, his experience of that area led him into setting up Al Read Electrical Co. Ltd in 1980” In the interim, Al Read has developed outstanding longterm relationships with a wide range of partners. Vast experience coupled with a proven ability to provide

complete public lighting solutions to local authorities has enabled the company to offer keen solutions to all its customers with a minimum of fuss. The cornerstones of Al Read Electrical’s success are its core values of hard work, delivery of service, cost effectiveness and new technologies. “The flexibility to be able to

offer complete solutions to local authorities was and is key to our growth,” Phil continues. “From a maintenance point of view, we were flexible and able to deliver. We are strong in both the installation and maintenance of public lights and also provide emergency services, for example when a column / pole is hit by a

Let there be light With a strong presence throughout the capital and the greater Leinster area, Al Read Electrical Co. Ltd. is one of Ireland’s premier specialists in installing and maintaining public lighting. is cutting-edge expertise has seen them complete a number of key lighting projects on motorways and national primary routes over the years, including the original M50 and contracts for the NRA and local authorities in Dublin and Meath. Irish Trucker dropped into the company depot in Mulhuddart and got an insight into day-to-day operations from Phil Read. CONTACT DETAILS 76

Al Read Electrical Co. Ltd Depot: Damastown Way, Damastown Industrial Park, Mulhuddart, Dublin 15 Tel: 01 8614844 Fax: 01 8614845 Head Office: 1 Lorcan Grove, Santry, Dublin 9 Tel: 01 8421602 Al Read: 087 2524145 Paul Read: 087 2523560 Phil Read: 087 2526589 www.alreadelectrical.com

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

al read designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 15:57 Page 2

vehicle, or cable fault causing large scale outage impacting on public safety.” Al Read Electrical Co. Ltd. has been involved in the design, installation and maintenance of public lighting since the early 1980s and is recognised as a leading contractor in the many aspects of outdoor area lighting. They specialise in solutions for public lighting of conventional road schemes, major road networks and wide area lighting (including decorative and architectural schemes). Their work lights up roads throughout the nation – including national primary routes, motorways, junctions, residential estates etc. Al Read Electrical has also carved an enviable reputation for itself in the area of floodlighting for sports grounds, providing lighting design, installation and maintenance for pitches for all sports nationwide.

In terms of electrical contracting, Al Read Electrical boasts over 30 years’ installation experience giving the best electrical services to a wide range of clients. They are RECIapproved and a Safe Electricregistered electrical contractor, offering a wide range of services. One of the many landmark projects that Al Read Electrical has been associated with down through the years is the eye-catching James Joyce Bridge in Dublin city, to which they provided an LED lighting upgrade in 2010. The company was engaged by Dublin City Council to inspect and repair the lighting on the bridge and, due to the location and traffic restrictions in place, they implemented an upgrade of existing fluorescent lighting to LED which offered a low-energy and low-maintenance solution.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Al Read Electrical’s core business is the delivery of public lighting maintenance to local authorities and private customers. This covers a wide range of operations and services including: fault identification through GPS tracked night scouts of local authority public lighting assets; routine fault repairs of lamp outages; lantern upgrading of obsolete equipment; public lighting column replacement; and cable fault location, identification and repair. Al Read Electrical currently holds the maintenance contracts for public lighting in three greater Dublin County Council areas: Fingal County Council, Dun Laoghaire / Rathdown County Council; and South Dublin County Council. They also hold the public lighting maintenance contract for Meath County Council. Roads where public lights are maintained on a daily basis include

the N11, N7, N4, N3 and N2 as well thousands of residential public lights in surrounding areas. Specific jobs have also been carried out for various local authorities around the country, including Cork, Kildare and Wicklow County Councils. A significant investment has been made in specialist C class 46KV aerial accesses platforms to enable the company to maintain and upgrade local authority public lighting assets mounted on live ESB overhead networks. They are also fully-equipped and certified to carry out all types of high-mast operations, including installation and maintenance. Local authorities have the peace of mind of knowing that a 24-hour emergency response team is available to deal with dangerous occurrences such as motor traffic accidents involving public lighting columns and large scale public

One of our Richardson operatives, Rory lighting maintcarrying out public en Dublin Coun ance in the South ty Council Ar ea

al read designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 15:57 Page 3

Best Wishes To Al Read Electrical From T/F: 01 8131033 M: 087 9904395 www.LNMOTORS.ie E: info@LNMOTORS.ie

Unit 3B, Feltrim Business Park, Swords, Co. Dublin

THE REPAIR & MAINTENANCE SPECIALIST

Hydro Excavation Ireland Best Wishes To Al Read Electrical, From The Safest Way To Dig

Hydroexcavation is a safe, non-destructive digging technology for contractors, utilities, public authorities and industrial facilities Damastown Way, Mulhuddart, Dublin 15 James Connolly 087 2543071 Email: hydroexcavation@eircom.net www.hydroexcavation.ie

KELLS HIRE CENTRE We Hire All Your Industrial & D.I.Y. Needs Kango Hammers • Compressors • Rollers • Power Floats Power Screeds • Sanders • Power Washers Paint Sprayers • Hoist • Steam Cleaners Mini-Excavators 1-5 Ton • Carpet Shampooers Generators • Fork Lifts • 1-6 Ton Dumpers Trailers ( All Sizes) • Scissors Lifts • Boom Lifts • Full Range Of Aluminium Towers DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE Very Keen Rates • Also Full Range Of Garden Equipment SALES • SERVICE HIRE TELEPHONE: 046 9241147 Unit B Kells Business Park, Kells, Co. Meath BEST WISHES & CONTINUED SUCCESS TO AI READ ELECTRICAL

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Wishing Continued Success To Al Read Electrical, From

Specialists in Outdoor Kiosks & Enclosure Systems www.ermalec.ie

Best Wishes to Al Read Electrical Co. Ltd From All At

J. Meade and Company

STATUTORY AUDITORS, ACCOUNTANTS & TAX CONSULTANTS 15 Main Street, Raheny, Dublin 5 Tel: 01 8315000 Fax: 01 8318420 www.jmeadeandco.ie

Best Wishes To Al Read Electrical, From

Street & Park Equipment Co. Ltd.

Specialist Suppliers of

P.O. Box 2134, Swords, Co. Dublin T: 01 840 0633 | T/F: 01 807 9787 E: info@streetandpark.com www.streetandpark.com

www.irishtrucker.com

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

al read designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 15:57 Page 4

Thomas Dwyer, ESB Network trained operative carrying out Public lighting maintenance on overhead networks

lighting failures (including motorway / national primary route outages). “Emergency services are provided for columns left in a dangerous position and we operate a 24hour call-out for that. In general, you need to be onsite within one hour to make

M7 Newbridge tunnel mass lighting maintenance carried out at night under traffic management

the column electrically and structurally safe and you need to plan and implement full repairs as quickly as possible,” states the managing director. A civil works division delivers all types of major and minor civil works required in

AIRSIDE

order to facilitate all public lighting installation, maintenance, upgrading and fault repair requirements. This service allows Al Read Electrical to meet all its public lighting requirements with flexibility Experienced and fully-trained

civil works operatives have access to a complete range of plant and equipment to tackle all jobs. “We also have dig-safe technology available to us for excavating the ground using high-pressure water to minimise damage to

Wishing Al Read Electrical continued success

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

al read designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 15:57 Page 5

underground services such as ESB power cables, gas mains and fibre optic cables during excavations.” As with every other line of work, the public lighting installation / maintenance sector has been revolutionised by technology over the years and Al Read has embraced new methods and techniques. “We have had to move with the times,” Phil confirms. “New technologies, which we have past experience in installing and commissioning, are available from the likes of SELC Ireland; an Irishowned company and Philips Lighting Ireland to name just two who are leaders in intelligent/smart lighting systems. “You can actually dial into a public lighting system on your laptop and you can check which lights are working, or dim/increase lighting levels with the push of a button. You can even get email alerts informing you when lamps are out and arrange for repair crews to attend.” A total of 25 people are employed by Al Read Electrical – public lighting electricians, network operatives, general operatives and civil work

Al Read Electrical Ltd. Sports lighting division carrying out new works at Brookfield Lawn Tennis Club, Dublin. Weight restrictions on the playing surface required that columns and lantern installation was carried out via crane from car park

The James Joyce Bridge in Dublin City Centre gets a LED energy efficient lighting up grade

operatives. Looking to the future, Phil Read – who has a background with ESB networks – concludes: “We would hope to grow in the area of public lighting and maintenance and to work with new technologies such as smart lighting systems and the ever changing LED technology. We will be focusing more on energysaving and we aim to keep our good reputation with local authorities as well as continuing to provide a comprehensive and flexible service. These are difficult times, so you have to focus on your strengths.” IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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e best of the best I

Oriel Auto Specialists Ltd. is the premier breakdown / repairs specialist in the north east. Going strong for over two decades, the company has forged a stellar reputation for itself as the ultimate one-stop shop. Irish Trucker dropped into the Dundalk, County Louth base and got an insight into day-to-day activities from proprietor Finbarr Dillon.

f you’re out on the road anywhere in or around the Wee County and you run into difficulties, Oriel Auto Specialists Ltd. should be your first port of call. These guys are guaranteed to get you out of a fix – and with a minimum of fuss. That’s what they do all day every day and no job is ever considered too big or too small. The Oriel Auto Specialists team will arrive at the site of any breakdown / accident and will either solve the problem on-site or remove the damaged vehicle to their state-of-the-art facility on the Coe’s Road, Dundalk, where an estimate will be given for the work required and a courtesy car provided, if required. “Basically, we will take all the hassle out of what can be a major

Part of the Oriel Auto Specialist fleet

inconvenience,” notes Finbarr Dillon, who set the business up around 20 years ago. How did the genesis of the company come to be? “I’ve

been working in the motor trade since I left school and I just spotted an opening to go out and do something on my own,” he reflects. “I served

my time in a local garage with Noel McEntaggart and also spent some time with Doyles in Drumcondra. “Eventually, I started up on

The 24 hour breakdown crew

CONTACT DETAILS 82

Oriel Auto Specialist Limited Coe’s Road, Dundalk, Co. Louth Tel: 042 9336819 Fax: 042 9326770 Mobile: 087 2595829

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Oriel designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 15:07 Page 2

The state of the art facility in Dundalk

my own doing crash repairs and I started to get busier. I soon needed more lads to come in and give me a hand and the business grew from there.” Finbarr obviously knew what he was doing and there was a great deal of demand for his services from day one. That has remained the case ever since those formative years and the business has grown steadily and impressively. “I started in a small shed up a lane on the farmyard,” he notes. “I was then on the Castletown Road for six years and then I bought the site here on the Coe’s Road and built my own workshop here. We’ve been here 13 years now and it has gone very well for us.” For the past 15 years, Oriel Auto Specialists Ltd. has held the An Garda Siochana contract for County Louth. This means that any time the Gardai request a tow truck to attend the scene of an accident or to remove a stolen or illegally-parked

vehicle, Finbarr and his team will be called out. Other contracts held include Leaseplan, the RAC in Ireland, Mondial Assistance and AXA Insurance. Oriel Auto Specialists Ltd. is an approved repairer for all the major insurance companies in Ireland. 24-hour recovery / towing of all types of vehicles is provided – from motorbikes up to light commercials – while a heavy goods recovery service is also offered in conjunction with Statewide Recovery in Balbriggan. Rental cars are available and, to this end, Finbarr runs an official Enterprise Renta-Car base. Fleet-wise, he oversees a fresh fleet of five recovery trucks and two breakdown vans, which operate nationwide. Substantial investment has been made in the fleet over the years and every effort is made to maintain all the units in immaculate condition and perfect running

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

order at all times. The lorries comprising the fleet at present are all relatively new – ’09, ’10 and ’11 reg trucks. The breakdown recovery service is offered 24/7 and Finbarr’s mobile is never switched off. “You could get a call any time of the day or night and you have to be ready. It’s a big commitment. And we are busy, so there’s always a good chance the call will come. Like everything else in life, you have to work at it. A lot of work has gone into building this business up. It doesn’t just fall into your arms. I never take my foot off the pedal. You have to give it 100% every day. “You have to be hands-on and you have to know what’s going on in your business and stand over it. We give a lifetime guarantee on all our work and we stand over absolutely everything we do. People know that when they come to us, they will get the job done properly, first time every

Top to bottom; Finbar Dillon, General Manager, Oriel Auto; Leslie Harrison, Accessor at Oriel Auto Specialists; Receptionist Anita McEneaney; Brenda Roddy, Office Administrator

Oriel designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 15:07 Page 3

Best Wishes To Oriel Auto Specialists, From

Tel: 042 9335020 Fax: 042 9336763

E: mcardletestcentre@hotmail.com

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Audit & Accounts Preparation Company Secretarial Services Corporate Finance Corporate Restructuring & Insolvency Financial Control Services Taxation Mill House, Mill Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth

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Best Wishes To Oriel Auto Specialists Ltd, From

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Continued Success To Oriel Auto Specialists Ltd

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Oriel designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 15:07 Page 4

time. This isn’t a game, it’s a serious business and we take it very, very seriously.” It would be fair to say that Finbarr has grown the business significantly over the years. Between office staff, drivers and workshop personnel, he currently provides employment to a team of 29 people. A crew of seven experienced, dedicated and fully-trained technicians (all of whom are up to speed on all the latest diagnostics, electronic and mechanical repair techniques) man a state-ofthe-art workshop with all mod cons including the latest jigsaws, ovens, lifts, spraypainting booths etc. Oriel Auto Specialists is an approved crash repairer for all makes and models and also does a lot of work in conjunction with all the main vehicle dealers. “We can do everything from changing a wiper blade to repairing a vehicle after an accident,” the proprietor confirms. To round off the full package of services on offer, a keen valeting service is also provided. One of the reasons why Oriel Auto Specialists Ltd. is so busy these days is due to the economic climate that prevails, with disposable income virtually non-existent to a lot of people: “People are far more inclined to repair and maintain their cars now rather than buy new ones, which means more work for us,” says Finbarr. “We service all makes and models of cars and also carry out pre-NCT inspections. There’s nothing we don’t do – recovery, repairs, tyres, batteries, bulbs, servicing, painting, parts etc. We also have an End of Life facility here. It really is a one-stop shop. “Every day presents a new challenge and no two days are the same. Looking to the

The ultra modern body shop

future, we are confident that we’ll continue to be busy. We will continue to provide an excellent service first and foremost and hopefully everything else will look after itself. “We’ve just opened a new bodyshop in Drogheda and a new mechanical shop in Dundalk, on the Castletown Road, which my son Kyle runs. I’ve another young lad, Anthony, coming up too and he’s mad into cars as well.” Wonder where he got that from…

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

The baking oven

captions

Precision bodywork

JM Autoparts designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 16:07 page 1

Best Wishes & Continued Success To JM AuTopArTS From

We have an ever expanding range of air brake fittings, industrial fittings, industrial tubing, air brake tubing and general transport spares. The ranges are complete and comprehensive to cover any Trailer Builder or after market requirements.

As well as manufacturing our own components we are also main stockists for all the key market suppliers including Norgren, raufoss, VoSS, John Guest as well as WIrA for whom we are sole uK Distributors.

Ballymena Engine Spares Ltd

Continued Best Wishes To JM Autoparts, From

36 Railway Street, Ballymena, Co. Antrim BT42 2AE

Tel: 028 2564 3161 (3 Lines) Fax: 028 2564 8184 Email: info@ballymenaenginespares.com

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unit B1, Springhead Enterprise park Springhead road, Northfleet, Gravesend, KENT DA11 8HB

T: 0044 (0) 1474 321954 F: 0044 (0) 1474 321988 Email: sales@tube-gear.com

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Wishing Continued Success To JM AUTOPARTS From

ICA BRAKE & CLUTCH SPECIALISTS 146 University Street, Belfast, Co. Antrim BT7 1HH Tel: 028 9024 2191 Fax: 028 9033 3866 Wishing Continued Success To JM Autoparts, From

Naas Industrial Estate, Naas, Co. Kildare Tel: 045 875 996 | Fax: 045 894 305 Herdman Channel Road (Off Duncrue Street), Belfast BT3 9BL Tel: 028 90740 055 | Fax: 028 90752 718

WOULD YOU LIKE YOUR COMPANY FEATURED IN

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Irish Trucker & Light Commercials Magazine

IrISH TruCKEr & LIGHT CoMMErCIALS

JM Autoparts designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 16:07 page 2

30th birthday celebrations at JM Autoparts One of Northern Ireland’s leading truck and trailer parts’ distributors, JM Autoparts, is celebrating 30 years in business.

his year marks a special milestone for JM Autoparts Ltd, which is known throughout Northern Ireland and beyond for its unrivalled service and exceptional range of stock. Founded by business partners Derek Job and Gerry Murphy in Cookstown, Co. Tyrone 30 years ago, the company opened a second outlet in nearby omagh in 1995 and enjoys the backing and support of some of Europe’s leading truck and trailer parts manufacturers, including Schomacker, which it is an exclusive distributor for in Ireland.

Stockists of quality parts only, JM Autoparts have parts and spares to suit every type of truck and commercial vehicle. So whether you are looking for air suspension parts, clutches or road springs for your truck, the Co. Tyrone-based company has the part for you. “All our parts are imported from Germany,” Derek explains. “We stock spare parts of the highest quality which conform to all oE and European specifications. We’ve achieved widespread recognition for our knowledge and distribution of truck and

CONTACT DETAILS

IrISH TruCKEr & LIGHT CoMMErCIALS

trailer parts to the haulage and quarry industries, and the wider trade in general. “Truck parts account for 60 per cent of our sales, with trailer parts accounting for the other 40 per cent.” Derek and Gerry had worked together in GKN Autoparts before deciding to set up their own business in 1983. They now employ 10 staff between their two outlets, including their sons Arnold (Job) and Stephen (Murphy). “Working in GKN Autoparts was good schooling for us. We’ve brought that experience to bear in our own

company. Whereas I’m responsible for sales and finance, and work between the two shops, Gerry is based in omagh all of the time. “The recession has hit the spare parts industry hard with many people being no longer able to afford new parts. It’s been a tough few years, but we’re fortunate to have a lot of good customers who have supported us through thick and thin.” JM Autoparts deal with all the leading commercial truck and trailer parts companies in Ireland, the uK and Europe. It is a main distributor for BpW axel and suspensions.

JM Autoparts Ltd (Omagh) Gortrush Industrial Estate, omagh, Co. Tyrone, BT78 5EJ opening Hours: 8am to 5.30pm (Monday to Friday): 9am to 12.30pm (Saturday)

JM Autoparts Ltd (Cookstown) 80 Burn road, Cookstown, Co Tyrone, BT80 8Dr opening Hours: 9am to 5.30pm (Monday to Friday): 9am to 12.30pm (Saturday)

JM Autoparts designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 16:07 page 3

Formed in Wiehl, Germany in 1898, BpW remains to this day an owner-operated family business, employing 2,000 people worldwide, with 20 distribution companies and a service network of 3,200 agents. In addition, JM Autoparts is a distributor for Schomacker springs, peter’s pE Automotive spare parts as well as for globally-renowned lighting agents Truck-Lite and Hella Lighting. As sole agents for Schomacker, JM Autoparts attracts customers from all over Ireland. “It is a big selling point for us,” Derek explains. “We met Schomacker representatives at a tradeshow in Germany 20 years ago and have been agents for them ever since. It’s nice to have a brand that nobody else has.” JM Autoparts stock the following comprehensive range of commercial parts: Suspension (airbags, shocks, road springs, spring buffers); Steering (track rod bars, track rod ends, drag links, king pins); Lighting (headlamps, tail lamps, side markers, spot lamps, bulbs, LED lighting); Brakes (discs, pads, drums, shoes, calipers); Clutch (release bearings, hydro bearings, master cylinders, clutch boosters, clutch kits); Filters (oil, air, fuel, air dryer, water separator); Air brakes (Susie lines, valves, cylinders, air tanks); Body components (mud guards, mud flaps, mirrors (mekra), marker boards, racket straps, wipers); Chassis components (landing legs, fifth wheels, trailer king pins); Exhausts (front pipes, flexi pipers, silencers, rigid piping, industrial exhausts, exhaust clamps); Bearings (wheel bearings, industrial bearings); under chassis components (shackle pins and bushes, anti-roll bar bushes, carrier bearing, uni-joints, wheel studs and nuts). JM Autoparts endeavour to offer the quickest possible turnaround on all orders, regardless of size or your

location. The company has an experienced and knowledgeable team on hand to help with any query that you may have. They are equipped to deal with the needs of an ever-expanding customer base. Truck and commercial vehicle owners come to JM Autoparts because of the first class service they receive, as well as its competitive pricing and excellent range of stock. As agents for many major manufacturers, JM Autoparts can source many different types of parts to suit a variety of vehicles. Full trade counters are open to the public six days a week

at the company’s Cookstown and omagh outlets, which can be easily accessed from any part of Ireland. orders are welcome from throughout the 32 counties and Derek, Gerry and their team are only too happy to offer advice and guidance if you are ever unsure of the right part for your vehicle.

JM Autoparts enjoys an excellent reputation thanks to its reliability and ability to help its customers find the ideal part for their truck or van. To find out more, telephone 028 8283 9027 or log onto www.jmautoparts.co.uk. Here’s to another 30 years of outstanding service…

Midland Caliper Centre Ltd Truck Caliper Specialists

We at MCC are pleased and proud to be a supplier to JM Auto parts & wish JM Auto parts all the best for the future.

We are an experienced and quality supplier of reconditioned truck, bus, trailer and plant brake calipers for all major manufacturers. We also supply parts kits and individual components Accounts for any make of caliper Spion House, 19 St Michaels Close, Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire LE65 1ES England We have agents Nationwide: T: +44 (0) 1530 416457 F: +44 (0) 1530 452290 please enquire for your nearest stockist

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FTS Designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 14:57 Page 1 FTS Logistics has come a long way in six years

These vans are a familiar sign on Irish roads

TS Logistics is proof positive that it’s possible for a new business to expand and prosper in the worst economic recession in many generations. In just six years, the Cork-based family-run transport company has grown to employ 16 staff and run a fleet of 12 vehicles. The company recently moved into a 3,000 sq. ft.

state-of-the-art premises in the Faber Castell Business Campus in Fermoy, just five minutes off Exit 14 on the M8 Cork/Dublin Motorway, and has just taken delivery of four brand new Renault Master vans. This on-going development enables FTS to

continue providing the same great service it has since it first opened its doors in January 2007. FTS Logistics was founded by father-and-son Flor and Alan O’Dwyer, who have overseen the company’s impressive expansion. They

are joined in the business by another member of the O’Dwyer family, Nicola. “We started out with one van each and now we have 12 and employ 16 people between full-time and parttime,” Alan explained. “As well as being directors

e fastest delivery service around Since 2007, FTS (Fermoy Transport Services) Logistics has established itself as a leading express courier provider specialising in same day and time sensitive deliveries, air freight, print media transfers and warehousing. Director Alan O’Dwyer explains more. CONTACT DETAILS 90

FTS Logistics Unit 1, Faber Castell Business Campus, Fermoy, Co. Cork. Telephone: 025 40040. Alan’s mobile: 087-9076183 Flor’s mobile: 086-1720272 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

FTS Designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 14:57 Page 2

in the company, Flor is the operations manager and I’m the financial controller. And not forgetting my sister Nicola who works in the office.” FTS offers a fast, reliable and cost-effective delivery service which is backed up the latest computer technology and online track and trace facilities. Committed to providing an unrivalled level of customer care and covering the greater Munster area, the company specialises in air freight, warehousing, same day and

FTS is based Business Ca in Faber Castell mpus in Ferm oy

time sensitive deliveries as well as print media transfers. It caters for deliveries from an envelope to a pallet service. FTS Logistics operates around the clock to meet and

Best Wishes from McCarthy Insurance Group

Charles McCarthy Insurances Ltd. t/a as McCarthy Insurance Group/ Bestquote McCarthy/ McCarthy Financial Services / O’Riordan Insurances/ Commercial Insurance Brokers is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

cater for the requirements of its ever-growing customer-base. “We have two shifts,” says Alan. “The first one runs from 6am to 6pm and the second

from 8pm to 5am. Our vans are on the road all the time. We have them running between Dublin and Cork every night, which

Kearys Renault Best Wishes & Continued Success To FTS Logistics

Kearys Renault Cork Kinsale Rd., Roundabout Cork 021 4910700 Kearys Renault Midleton Cork Road, Mildleton 021 4621300

www.kearys.ie

FTS Designed_Layout 1 10/07/2013 14:57 Page 3

The Fermoy-based firm specialises in air-freight and same-day deliveries among other things

allows us to offer a premium air freight service to and from Dublin and Cork airports. We cater for everyone from individual consumers to large companies.” FTS excels in same day/time sensitive deliveries. “When you offer a time sensitive delivery service, you have to be in specific places at the same time every day. You can’t be a minute out and only certain companies are cut out to provide this type of service,” Alan notes. “Another area we specialise in is print media transfers. This involves the collection of A future FTS employee ... Alan's son Fionn

The company has 12 new Renaults on the road

newspapers in bulk form each night in Dublin and Cork. We bring them to the distributors who have specific distribution areas throughout the country. The FTS fleet of vans have become a familiar sight on Irish roads. Immaculately turned out, they are a distinctive white in colour with blue and red livery. The majority of the vans are boxbody with tail-lift. The fleet is a mixture of Renault and Ford, although Alan says the long-term aim is to convert the entire fleet to Renault. “We recently invested in

four new Renault Master vans. Eventually, all our vans will be Renault. We find them reliable and economical. We service our own vehicles and carry out preventative maintenance on them because it works out cheaper in the long run.” FTS prides itself on the outstanding service it offers its customers. “The customer is king with us,” he stresses. “We’ve been lucky in the sense that we’ve had eight or 10 solid customers from the very beginning. They’ve stayed with us because they know we won’t be beaten on service or cost. We are always prepared to go the extra mile to look after our customers regardless of how big or small they are. We’re

always looking for new business and, in the majority of cases we get it through being recommended by some of our existing customers.” Alan concludes by singing the praises of FTS’s friendly and efficient staff – many of whom have been with the company from the start. “I’d like to thank them for all they’ve done over the past six years. Without them, we wouldn’t have had the success we’ve had to date.” FTS Logistics continues to grow, one well-serviced and satisfied client at a time. For your next courier or delivery need, why not give Flor, Alan or any of the FTS team in Fermoy a call?

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

New Classified Page July_Layout 1 10/07/2013 15:18 Page 1

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