Irish Trucker magazine July 2012

IRISH

& LIGHT COMMERCIALS

JULY 2012 Vol. 15 No. 6 EURO 2.95 stg.£2.50

McArdle Skeath acquisition significant for Irish Exports Irish family-run company McArdle Transport Ltd has officially announced that it has acquired Skeath Refrigerated Transport Ltd and rebranded the business as McArdle Skeath, in an undisclosed deal. McArdle Skeath is a reliable and trusted partner among Irish exporters and is now providing integrated logistics solutions for the food, pharmaceutical, blue chip and dry goods sectors in Ireland, the UK and Europe. Specialist services are transportation, refrigeration and storage. In its 45th year in business, senior McArdle executives say the transaction is the next phase of the company’s growth strategy and that the deal reinforces its leadership and international experience in all aspects of transport, logistics, warehousing, airfreight, deep sea and supply chain management. “The forming of McArdle Skeath has been significant for us and our clients, especially at a time when the industry faces many challenges from fuel costs to ever changing regulations,” said Micheal McArdle, managing director, McArdle Skeath. “Our business and Skeath’s business were very compatible and we share the same visions and values which have evolved from listening to the needs of our clients. Since the acquisition we have also made a significant capital investment in our fleet. In the transport sector most The newly merged companies have scaled back on capital investments due to McArdle Skeath increasing pressure on margin caused by high fuel prices; this is very worrying as the average life cycle of a truck is 7 years, which makes our industry extremely capital intensive. For companies that have not or cannot invest, it is often the first signal of underlying problems within the sector.” In the storage division, McArdle Skeath has also recently invested in building a new warehouse at its 13 acre site based in Inniskeen, Dundalk, Co. Louth. This expansion brings the company’s total storage capacity to 20,000 pallet spaces and its barcode enabled warehouse management system gives clients full visibility. All stock ordering, picking and loading services are managed by McArdle Skeath.

“Skeath Refrigerated Transport Ltd had been in business almost 40 years and built up a strong reputation and client base in sectors similar to McArdle Transport Ltd," said Mark Skeath, road freight manager, McArdle Skeath. “The amalgamation has resulted in a combined staff of over eighty people in full time employment and has real benefits to our clients whereby they are now receiving more integrated services critical to supply chain management. This, added to the fact that we are working with such a reputable company as McArdle’s, we could not be more pleased with the acquisition." McArdle Skeath is accredited, approved and licensed by IMB (Irish Medicines Board); the Department of Agriculture, Department of Transport, ISO 9001:2008; and the FDA the US Food and Drug Administration, which recently completed a successful audit of the company’s Louth based facilities.

For more information on McArdle Skeath, please visit www.mcardleskeath.com

Stoneridge launches new SE5000 Exakt Tachograph, now with Duo technology Stoneridge is pleased to announce the launch of its new SE5000 Exakt, One Minute Rule digital tachograph, now with Duo technology. The tachograph has received Type Approval and following last year’s One Minute Rule savings, is again the first in the market place to offer a product with new features which help drivers organise and manage their driving time more efficiently. Distributed by MMC Commercials in Ireland, the new Stoneridge tachograph will be available through 46 authorised Stoneridge workshops throughout the Country.

The new features will provide drivers with real time information on their current situation, including countdowns on drive and rest times, as well as giving useful warnings when nearing the driving limits (including 9 hours daily driving time, maximum daily drive time and weekly and bi-weekly drive time). A spokesperson for Stoneridge Electronics, said, “We know that over 75% of Drivers’ Hours offences detected by enforcement authorities are down to miscalculations on drive or break/rest times and so we designed Duo to help drivers manage these easily and keep within the Drivers’ Hours legislation.”

Furthermore, Duo maximises driver and vehicle utilisation and allows drivers to easily handle deviations from pre-planned schedules and, coming as standard in the new model there is no extra cost for these features. Stoneridge understands the importance to fleets of minimising costs so has also developed a free online training tool to help fleets and drivers find out about Duo and get started with digital tachographs. The useful instruction videos and tutorials mean that as soon as a fleet switches to the SE5000 Exakt Duo, they’ll be able to reap the benefits of the pioneering new technology built in to the first ‘One Minute Rule’ tachograph.

The SE5000 Exakt Duo is also 2nd source of motion ready* in line with the new 1266/2009 legislation due to come in later in the year, and will continue to offer the One Minute Rule time savings which have seen fleets benefiting from an average of 45 minutes extra driving time per driver per day.

For more information on the SE5000 Exakt Duo visit: www.SE5000Exakt.com

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New Mercedes-Benz Antos available here on order post September The new Mercedes-Benz Antos - a new range of trucks designed specifically for heavy-duty short-radius distribution use - will be available to Irish customers on order after it is presented to the market at the forthcoming Hannover commercial vehicles show in September, according to the company’s commercial vehicles sales manager, Fergus Conheady.

With the Antos, Mercedes-Benz claims to be the first heavy truck maker to produce a vehicle specially developed to meet the varied requirements of the short-radius distribution industry.

Styled on lines similar to the new Actros, it comes with a 2.3-metres wide cabin available in short 'S' or medium-length 'M' versions with two roof variants. Powered by the latest BlueEfficiency Euro 6 engines, it has thirteen power categories covering a broad spectrum from 175 kW (238 hp) to 375 kW (510 hp). According to Fergus Conheady, its Euro 6 engine classification will drive demand for the Antos, particularly towards the latter half of 2013.

Available as a platform truck or tractor unit, it has sixty-seven different wheelbase lengths, with axle spacing ranging from 2,650mm to 6,700 mm. Other features include automated PowerShift transmission and optional Active Brake Assist. With an unladen weight of around six tonnes, its low coupling point and low frame height maximize payload while its interior height of three metres maximises load capacity.

The Antos will be aimed at users such as those involved in the food sector where the requirement is for a platform truck with refrigerated or box bodies that will spend more or less equal time in urban traffic, on country roads and on motorways.

‘In such situations, the requirement is for a vehicle with good all-round visibility that is easy to operate and configured for single-day tours, where a broad spectrum of engine power is required to cope with varying loads and conditions with frequent stops and numerous route changes’ Fergus Conheady said.

Mercedes-Benz Antos

Stena Line new look ships shape up for BelfastLiverpool route Stena Line has carried out a major ship upgrade programme

Following its £40M acquisition of the Belfast – Liverpool ferry route from DFDS last year, Stena Line has now completed a major ship upgrade programme with a £4M refit investment in sister ships Stena Mersey and Stena Lagan. The refurbishment of the ships, which was carried out at Harland &Wolf shipyard in Belfast, started in March and was completed in April. Stena Line appointed specialist marine outfitters MJM Marine from Newry, a company with considerable experience in the global cruise ship industry, ensuring the new ships were fitted out to the highest standards to provide customers with a unique high quality ferry travel experience.

The investment programme has introduced new onboard facilities including Stena Plus, a Pod Area with five iMacs, a Trucker’s Lounge, free Wi-Fi onboard and the Metro Bar & Grill and Metro Restaurant (a la carte), both with a new menu. The refurbishment has also significantly improved onboard facilities and customer experience including the onboard look and feel, an improved shop with new products, improved guest services and cinema with free movies. Stena Line’s newly appointed Route Director for the Belfast - Liverpool service Richard Horswill said: “When Stena Line acquired the Belfast – Liverpool route there was a lot of anticipation about just what the world’s leading ferry company had in mind for the future development of the route. “With the two ships now having completed their comprehensive refit and upgrade, I can assure customers that they are in for a real treat. Stena Line has a first class reputation for customer service and is continually pushing the boundaries of the onboard passenger experience,” he continued. “The refurbished Stena Mersey and Stena Lagan opens a new chapter in customer service for the route and I am delighted to be leading the team at this exciting time. Our ships will now offer a consistent level of service, efficiency and customer experience that will set a new standard for our route,” Richard added. Brian McConville of MJM Marine said: "We’ve taken immense pride in being involved with these prestigious refits and have viewed it as an endorsement of MJM's knowledge and experience of working with Stena Line on their Irish Sea routes.

“MJM has deployed all of its experience and expertise to ensure that it meets the very high standards set by Stena Line.

We increased our workforce to almost 300 in order to deliver the desired quality of finish on time and on budget,” he added. Stena Line operates the biggest fleet and the widest choice of routes between Ireland and Britain with an extensive route network including Belfast to Liverpool, Belfast to Cairnryan, Holyhead to Dun Laoghaire and Dublin Port and Rosslare to Fishguard.

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Mercedes-Benz delivers new fuel-saving GPS-linked Cruise Control System Irish operators of the new Mercedes-Benz Actros will shortly have the chance to use a cruise control system that can ‘see ahead’ and help reduce fuel consumption by an additional three percent.

As the first GPS-based cruise control system, Predictive Powertrain Control can apply its knowledge of the road ahead to help drivers respond in a way that will deliver the most fuel-efficient performance by intervening to control speed and braking and regulate transmission.

The new driver assistance system uses GPS data to change gear and regulate cruise control, coming into its own when negotiating up- or downhill gradients.

The system thereby extends use of the fuel-saving EcoRoll function fitted as standard on the new Actros.

Commenting, Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles sales manger Fergus Conheady said ‘this new Predictive Powertrain Control system exploits the fuel-saving potential of the new Actros down to the very last drop.”

Renault go mobile Renault Trucks has launched the mobile version of its website. This will enable everyone, wherever they may be and whenever they wish, to easily keep connected with the world of trucks. With a simplified tree structure and incorporation of social networks, customers and all of the brand's enthusiasts can now access this site from their telephones. The arrival of tablets and other Smartphones has completely changed cybernauts' relationship to the web, calling for new interfaces better adapted to these devices in terms of fluidity, speed and practicality. For the benefit of its customers and the brand's enthusiasts, Renault Trucks is therefore launching the mobile version of its www.renault-trucks.com/corporate website as well as the Renault Trucks country sites (www.renault-trucks.fr, www.renault-trucks.co.uk, www.renault-trucks.de etc.).

Using simplified tree structures, a clear and straightforward design and fast access to mobile cybernauts' favourite functionalities, the new Renault Trucks mobile Internet site makes it easy to obtain key information about the manufacturer, while at the same time preserving the rich amount of content offered by the normal website. Incorporating social networks such as Facebook or Twitter enables visitors to easily sign up to the Renault Trucks pages and share them with their contacts.

DAF XF105 is ‘Truckstar Truck of the Year 2012’ The Dutch drivers magazine Truckstar has elected the DAF XF105 ’Truckstar Truck of the Year 2012’.

DAF’s top model received the award following an extensive comparison test of all the top models of the seven European truck manufacturers by a panel of professional drivers. It is the first time that the leading Dutch truckers’ magazine Truckstar has organised a 'Truck of the Year’ contest. "From hundreds of submissions from readers, we selected a test panel of 21 professional drivers. They spent three days driving and critically assessed all top, long-haul models, especially for driving characteristics and cab comfort," says editor-in-chief Arjen van Vliet. "The test covered all top models with the largest cabs."

The DAF XF105 came out of the test as the best all-rounder, according to the jury. "It runs well, sounds good and is nice to drive. The cab interior space is unsurpassed. There is no truck with more freedom to move, storage space, or better beds than the XF105. From the way the top bunk is folded, up to the night lock and the large fridge, everything is just right. A truck, therefore, that most meets the criterion of ‘the driver’s friend’. The step behind the cab, and a clever additional sun visor on the roller blinds, are examples of smart, effective solutions that prove DAF has the driver explicitly in mind when making decisions. DAF listens to drivers." "That DAF has won this test is a valuable recognition of the qualities of the XF105," said Ron Bonsen, member of the Board of Management and responsible for Marketing & Sales.

"The title 'Truckstar Truck of the Year 2012’ is even more valuable because it is a recognition by drivers themselves, professionals who know how important it is to have the largest interior space available and the most practical cab utilisation, as well as optimal driving qualities."

Drugs seized at Rosslare Europort

Cannabis resin worth an estimated €319,000 was recently seized at Rosslare Europort. Officers from Revenue's Customs Service seized 53kg of cannabis resin after they stopped and searched a car that was disembarking a ferry from France at Rosslare Europort. The seizure was made on foot of routine profiling. Revenue's new sniffer dog, Ralph, who joined the Customs team two weeks ago, gave an indication. The vehicle was then scanned by the Customs X-Ray Scanner and drugs were discovered concealed in the vehicle. A Ukranian national was arrested and taken to Wexford Garda Station.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

EU Tyre Label Obligatory from Autumn 2012 · Continental welcomes the tyre label to improve safety and for a better environment · Increased transparency on three important tyre properties from November 2012 · Tests performed by motoring magazines still offer the best guidance for consumers The tyre label, compulsory for all 27 EU member states, will bring added transparency to the European market from November 2012.

By this date, at the latest, all tyres sold in the EU must carry a label that specifies rolling resistance, wet braking performance and external tyre / road noise.

Implementation of the new labeling regulations will require tyre manufacturers to operate a self-certification policy, but sanctions for violations and non-compliance are to remain within the remit of national law in the 27 EU member states.

A validation operation will take place in spring 2016 – around 40 months after the EU tyre label comes into force – to critically review whether the labeling targets have been met. The effectiveness of the communication at the point of sale will be a particular focus of the review.

Speaking about the new EU tyre label, Paddy Murphy, General Manager of Continental Tyres in Ireland said: “We welcome the new EU tyre label as it provides consumers with much greater information on the performance of a tyre in terms of safety and fuel consumption before purchase. Whilst this is far more information than a motorist might normally see when buying tyres, we still see a need for more information to aid drivers, as the new tyre label only specifies three important tyre properties but fails to highlight a number of other criteria that are just as important, for example resistance to aquaplaning, handling and dry braking distances”.

Of the 20 or so tyre properties that are evaluated as part of a tyre test by independent magazines, only three feature on the new EU label. For this reason, Continental advises motorists that independent tyre tests are still the most important source of information for a proper assessment of a tyre’s quality and performance.

Another critical issue in this regard are the concrete sanctions taken for violations of the regulations and how these might differ from one country to another. “All EU member states have yet to establish regulations on what measures are to be taken against false tyre markings,” laments Mr. Murphy. “Unfortunately as long as there is no threat of consequences to act as a deterrent, the door remains open to abuses.”

Classifications for all three criteria on the EU tyre label must be displayed on every tyre sold in the EU from November of this year. This applies to all tyres produced from July 1, 2012 onwards. The regulations also stipulate that these values are to be quoted in the technical or promotional literature, on manufacturer’s websites, and price lists as well.

It is essential that the labels are put on any tyres on display, but where tyres are not displayed the dealer must give the values to the customer during the sales process. Label values must also be given on or with the invoice.

As affixing the EU tyre label forms an additional requirement and needs a considerable lead time, many tyres on sale at retail outlets will already bear the new markings in advance of the November deadline. Tyres produced before July 1, 2012 can still be sold without labels.

Household waste decreasing The report provides data on Ireland’s waste generation and management and the progress being made in meeting national and international waste targets. The reduction in household waste reflects the decrease in personal consumption in the economic downturn, despite an increase in population. Ireland’s municipal waste – commercial, household and street cleaning waste - decreased by 3.6% between 2009 and 2010 and has decreased 16% overall since its highest level in 2007. The report also reveals a very positive change - Ireland’s municipal waste recovery rate (recovery means any operation which results in waste serving a useful purpose, for example use of waste as a fuel or composting of food waste) increased by 3% to 42% in total and waste disposed to landfill decreased 13% from 2009 to 2010. Ms Fiona McCoole, EPA Office of Climate, Licensing and Resource Use said: “The 2010 National Waste Report findings illustrate that progress is being made in managing and dealing effectively with waste while highlighting the challenges that lie ahead. The EPA’s National Waste Prevention Programme provides the support needed for homes, businesses and communities to work towards resource efficiency and conservation initiatives for waste and water.”

Stobart set to expand Stobart Group is in talks to take over Autologic Holdings, the car transport specialist. Autologic made an operating profit of £2.3 million last year, on sales of £144.7m. In a statement, it confirmed that it was in talks with Stobart regarding a possible cash offer, but said there could be no certainty that an offer could be made. Autologic shares have risen from 11.5p before the bid to 17.5p.

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UK Department of Transport to investigate non-circumferential hubs The Department for Transport is to undertake independent testing to verify research from Motor Wheel Service that found commercial vehicles operating on non-circumferential hubs are prematurely damaging industry approved wheels.

During the meeting between Mike Penning, Parliamentary UnderJohn Ellis,MD, Motor Secretary of State for Transport, John Ellis, managing director of Wheel Service Motor Wheel Service and Paul Goggins, Labour MP for Wythenshawe and Sale East, it was also confirmed that VOSA will look to ascertain the number of vehicles operating on non-standard hubs, also known as spider and star shaped hubs.

The initial investigation, carried out on an LBF machine by one of the world's leading CV wheel experts, Dr. Sundararajan of Wheels India, found that non-circumferential hubs, which give only partial contact between axle and wheel, are causing untested load stresses which cause cracks and half life expectancy.

At present all quality wheels are tried and tested to European Tyre and Rim Technical Organisation (ETRTO) standards on a circumferential hub with a continuous contact diameter, which is universally acknowledged as the main criterion by the Association of European Wheel Manufacturers (EUWA).

Ellis said: "The Minister listened astutely to our findings and stated that the DfT will undertake published, independent research and instruct VOSA to ascertain the scale of the issue. No timescale has yet been set, but we will continue to liaise with Government and assist wherever possible.

"I would like to publicly thank the Minister for listening to our research and immediately instigating decisive action. His unequivocal commitment to safety is mirrored by Paul Goggins MP, who has backed our wheel safety campaign and who has continued to push hard to get us to this juncture.

Goggins added: "This is a very positive outcome to the dialogue we have been having with the Minister. I commend John Ellis for his determination to get to the bottom of this issue. Road safety is an absolute priority."

Motor Wheel Service has stated that operators may be required to contact hub and wheel manufacturers as products originally replaced or refunded under warranty may no longer be considered if the product is shown to have operated on a non-circumferential hub.

In addition, due to the differing characteristics of the various hub shapes, interchangeability can be affected as mounting those wheels on hubs with yet another shape can further drastically reduce the attachment area leading to increased surface pressure and an undefined attachment of wheel to hub.

The company argues that vehicle maintenance, service schedules and MOT tests will also need to be more rigorous, suggesting that operators contact VOSA and the main CV organisations for their interpretation of the findings.

Ellis concluded: "The research is undeniable. Wheels designed and manufactured to ETRTO standards are being placed on axles that are non-standard, or non-circumferential. This is leading to the early fatigue of wheels, primarily displayed as cracks, approximately halfway through the lifetime expectancy.

"The wheel safety issue is still a number one priority and we will continue to push for further clarification of testing and unregulated sellers. In the interim I urge any operator concerned with the findings to contact VOSA, CV organisations, manufacturers or MWS and we will help resolve this issue."

Additional 6,500 Car Parking Spaces for Easytrip Customers at Dublin Airport Easytrip, Ireland’s leading provider of electronic tolling payment services has today announced that its customers can now avail of additional car parking spaces at QuickPark, Dublin Airport. Easytrip customers can drive into the QuickPark Dublin Airport facility from this month and avail of a €7euro per day parking rate.

Conveniently located right next to Dublin Airport, QuickPark operate a free 24 hour shuttle service that runs every five minutes, with a journey time of five minutes, direct to airport terminal buildings. Both short term and long term parking is available.

“The introduction of these additional spaces at this great daily parking rate, can only be good news for our customers and potential customers alike,” said Ciara O’ Brien, general manager, Easytrip Services. “Our tag holders do not need to pre book but simply drive up to the QuickPark Dublin Airport facility press the button to pay with their tag and park with ease in a secure, safe environment.

The timing of this service couldn’t be better with Irish holiday makers planning their summer vacations. We are excited to be able to offer this alternative parking solution that is both handy and cheaper to boot,” she concluded.

Commenting on the service and improvements at the Dublin Airport parking facility, Anne Smith of QuickPark said, “Using the Easytrip service makes leaving your car at our Dublin Airport facility not only economical and safe, but also a hassle-free experience. We are delighted to be able to offer our customers an exceptional parking rate, which is cheaper than most of our local competitors offer at present,” she added.

All other motorists who wish to add the parking service to their tag, even if it is not an Easytrip tag, can do so by checking out www.easytrip.ie or telephone Lo Call 1890 67 67 68 or from UK & Northern Ireland on 0844 544 6767.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Festival fever hits Tobywagons.com as they launch their wagon festival rental scheme Toby Wagons launched their red wagons in Ireland earlier this year to great fanfare. Already children and adults alike have realised how useful and fun these wagons are in the garden or at play. These are certain to be the "must have" product of the summer. Now with the musical festival fever upon us Tobywagons.com have launched their new scheme, festival wagon rental.

“We're a friendly festival going family and the main problems we encountered were worrying about our buggy getting bogged down and our little lad who is "too old for a buggy!" but too young to stand all day getting tired and irritable. We thought about solutions and this led us to the idea of renting the wagons for weekends.” said Derrick Bell owner of Tobywagons.com. With festivals now being aimed more at families there will definitely be a huge demand for these wagons to carry the essentials -nappies, food, jackets for your kids, refreshments for the adults and even as a mobile cot to allow your little one have a snooze. Rental is also allows you to try before you buy.

The Toby Wagon is available in two styles – classic and all terrain. Both feature all-steel hardware and rounded edges for safety. Toby Wagons are based on the enduring retro design of the American Flyer wagon and designed to last a lifetime. The Classic Toby Wagon has a 32x3.5-inch bed that’s ideal for hauling items around the home, office or on trips to the park. The All-Terrain Toby Wagon has the same dimensions and features natural wooden stake sides for additional carrying capacity, along with real air tires that provide a super soft and quiet ride.

The classic toy has been a favourite for generations, offering adults an easy mode of transporting essential items for recreational outings or shopping. When children get tired, it provides a convenient place for them to rest, while allowing parents to remain mobile.

The red wagon is a constant source of inspiration for children, fueling imaginations for down to earth playtime fun or an imaginary trip to the stars.

Despite advances in technology and the proliferation of electronic amusements, the little red wagon has never gone out of fashion. It’s a versatile vehicle that’s at home in a variety of venues, from outdoor concerts to shopping centres. It functions as a cart or truck to relocate items or as a means of transportation for small children, providing ample room to bring along favourite toys, snacks, essentials and accessories.

The Toby Wagon is destined to become an enduring and treasured symbol of childhood that will engender fond memories throughout the decades. Bell’s introduction of Toby Wagons allows residents to experience the joy and fun of toys that have become an icon in the U.S., and are on track to become an Irish favourite.

Toby Wagons are also looking for retailers in Ireland and wholesale prices are available. Retailers who have already taken on stocks have reported planty of interest and brisk trade.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Brent crude price falls 7% The price of brent crude oil fell by 15% in the month of May, the largest monthly price fall in two years, but the benefit of that will not be passed on at petrol pumps in Ireland. The latest Bord Gáis Energy Index went down 7% in May, to 142. Power trader at Bord Gáis Energy John Heffernan said the weakening euro meant Irish consumers will not get the full benefit of the price reduction at the petrol pump. "The price of brent crude is in dollars. During the month of May, the euro weakened versus the dollar by about 7%," he said. "(That means) consumers will not get the full benefit at the pump due to the eurozone economic situation."

DHL Express continues to deliver for the Irish Soccer Team DHL Express, the world’s leading international express delivery company, continues its commitment to support the logistics needs of the Irish International Soccer Team by delivering more than 16 tons of team and training kit, physio supplies, video analysis and games room equipment in the run up to the Euro 2012 finals. DHL Express delivered all of the team kit, physio supplies, training equipment, and general supplies to the training camp in Montecatini, Italy two weeks in advance of the squad’s arrival. Similarly all items for the friendly game versus Hungary were securely delivered for the friendly match in Budapest. And most importantly of all, a very large shipment of team equipment and supplies for the team camp in Poland was also been safely delivered in dedicated DHL trucks to the team base well ahead of the squad’s arrival in Poland. As the Irish soccer team’s Official Logistics Partner for over fifteen years, DHL Express has played a key role in supporting the team both on and off the pitch. Earlier this year, DHL Express also became the main sponsor of Bohemian Football Club, further strengthening its ties with Irish football.

Commenting, Bernard McCarthy, Managing Director, DHL Express Ireland said: “A dedicated team of logistics experts from DHL and the FAI have been working hard behind the scenes in preparation for the Euro 2012 Finals. It’s quite a complex logistical challenge and the planning process started some months ago in order to ensure that everything was in place for the squad when they arrived at their training camp in Italy and thereafter for the friendly match in Budapest and of course for the finals themselves in Poland.

“DHL Express has been a great partner to the FAI for over fifteen years and they have provided an invaluable service to our international teams throughout that time. In particular in the run-up to the Euro 2012 Finals we have worked very closely with DHL to ensure that everything was in place for the squad when they arrived in Italy for the training camp and of course for the finals in Poland,” explained FAI Chief Executive, John Delaney. “The DHL Express international network is second to none and this is complemented by a great local team who have supported our every need, so we’re delighted to have them on board as our logistics partner.”

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Nightline celebrates 20 years in business as An Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore TD pays tribute to an outstanding Irish success story Nightline, Ireland's number one independent parcel delivery company recently celebrated its twentieth year in business which coincided with a visit from An Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore TD to its headquarters in North Dublin.

Formed in 1992 with two delivery vans, Nightline has grown to be the largest Irish domestic parcel delivery company with an estimated 40 percent market share and delivers 40,000 parcels per day. Today Nightline operates not only in Ireland but also in the UK market with a fleet of over 300 vehicles.

100 percent Irish owned with all company profits staying in Ireland, Nightline has enjoyed ten percent year on year growth since its foundation and currently engages over 600 employees nationwide and supports local Irish businesses.

Nightline CEO, John Tuohy stated “from modest beginnings we have enjoyed sustained and consistent growth. We understand the challenges facing Irish companies in the current economic climate but our model has allowed us to grow and develop the business.

We recently purchased wireless terminals from Zetes worth almost

one million euros to streamline our business and meet rising demand from our customers, a sign of our commitment to innovation and excellence.”

“While investment in new technology and infrastructure is very important, we wouldn’t be where we are today without an amazing staff and we are looking forward to adding to our numbers over the next twelve months with a number of new opportunities on the horizon.”

An Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore TD stated “Nightline is an excellent example of an innovative Irish company that is enjoying success despite the current downturn. Twenty years in business is a significant milestone and it is clear that the company has been built upon a solid foundation of innovation, commitment and hard work. Indigenous Irish businesses like Nightline are important to not only the national economy but also local communities through employment and local expenditure.”

“We have seen our business grow steadily over the past twenty years which has allowed us to move in to the UK market with great success. We recently announced a number of significant delivery deals with some of Britain’s biggest fashion retailers, including Coast, Oasis, Warehouse and Karen Millen and we feel the UK market holds great potential for Irish companies such as Nightline” Tuohy commented.

Now in its twentieth year of business and offering all Ireland and international services, Nightline is set to further expand in 2012 with a series of significant announcements over the next twelve months.

Volvo test new system

Haulage needs a boost

Trucks that impose hardly any load on the environment because their carbon emissions are virtually zero.

Could this be a future scenario? Well, in actual fact, Volvo Trucks is already running successful field tests with vehicles powered by bio-DME, a fuel that can be produced from biomass both cost and energy efficiently. For the transport industry, this could reduce dependence on oil and thereby reduce the environmental impact.

Since last autumn, ten specially adapted Volvo trucks have been operating on Swedish roads. They do not stand out in the traffic they do not travel more slowly and they do not look any different but they are revolutionary. The reason is that they are powered by bio-DME, a fuel that is produced from biomass - in other words, renewable, totally natural raw materials - which reduces carbon emissions by 95 per cent compared with diesel. The field tests have now reached the halfway point and the results so far have both met and exceeded expectations.

"We have, for example, demonstrated both that the technology works in practice, when it comes to both the production of fuel and trucks in traffic, and that the infrastructure with filling stations in different parts of Sweden works effectively. The test results bode well for the future," says Lars Mårtensson, environmental director at Volvo Trucks.

The field tests, which are being conducted in collaboration with companies including Preem and the Swedish company, Chemrec, which is responsible for fuel production, has aroused interested worldwide - an unexpected bonus, according to Lars Mårtensson.

"We have shown that it's possible to take an idea from the laboratory to full-scale operation and we have also successfully spread this knowledge all over the world. There is now a clear-cut interest from countries including China, Russia and the USA and they are markets with huge potential," he says.

Bio-DME, dimethyl ether produced from biomass, is a liquid, socalled second-generation biofuel that can be made from wood or by-products and waste from agricultural production.

While the increased focus on growing our export base is to be welcomed, operators in the road haulage industry may not survive without a much-needed injection of liquidity in the market warned Adrian Madden, Close Brothers Commercial Finance Ireland.

The road haulage industry contributes over €1 billion to the general exchequer and receives no financial assistance from the Government.

Mr. Madden, who heads up the Irish asset finance arm of UK FTSE 250, specialist financial services group Close Brothers Plc, was speaking today at the launch of the company's first White Paper designed to assist the road haulage industry as it seeks to drive forward the economic recovery.

'Keeping the wheels turning' was produced in association with the Irish Road Haulage Association, the national representative body of the licensed road haulage industry in the Republic of Ireland.

Adrian Madden, Close Brothers Commercial Finance, "Driving forward growth and economic recovery will not take place without increasing our export base. 95% of Irish freight and 90% of our manufacturing output is moved by the road haulage industry. The sector has worked hard to become more competitive, absorbing the increasing costs fromroad taxes and fuel increases – but this cannot be sustained.

"The crippling effect on their cash flow is threatening to put many companies out of business and that is exactly why we have partnered with the IRHA to raise awareness of what government needs to be doing, but also to enable companies to access the vital funds they need."

Eoin Gavin, IRHA President said, "The IRHA is calling on the government to support the road haulage industry through the implementation of an essential user fuel rebate which could be of critical importance to the survival of the industry and the countless direct and indirect jobs associated with the industry.

The IRHA estimates that the sector contributions over €1 billion to the general exchequer each year via fuel duty, road tax, PAYE and PRSI all without any financial assistance from the Government. The sector is in fact a net contributor to the State."

18

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Ford Ireland Introduces a range of New Ford Service Initiatives Ford Econo Check

Under the new Ford Service Initiatives, Ford Customers can receive · Free Ford Econo Check* driver analysis software to help reduce fuel costs · Free 12 months Roadside Assistance · Free Vehicle health check & service price match guarantee

Ford has announced an upgrading and standardisation of its service offering as part of its new Ford Service initiative.

A key element of the new service programme is the free Ford Econo Check* which is unique on the market. Ford Econo Check offers an extended analysis of a driver’s driving style to generate a unique report that provides advice on how to save fuel. The system works by gathering driving data over a number of days on a discreet data logger.

Once the data logger has been returned to the Ford Dealer, a full user-friendly Ford Econo Check report is downloaded and is then emailed to the driver. The report gives detailed information on potential annual savings for fuel, CO2 and money if the report’s conclusions and advice are followed. By applying recommendations in the Ford Econo Check report drivers can reduce fuel expenditure by up to 25 percent.

Speaking about the new Service initiative, Dave Pimlott, Ford Ireland Customer Service Director, said: “Our new Service initiative is a response to the changing market. In the current climate, customers are looking for value for money but equally, when they hand over their hard-earned cash to have their car serviced or repaired, they want to know that they are getting the best service and most dependable parts available. That is the essence of our new initiative”.

In addition to Econo Check, Ford has also launched the Ford Service Promise. Under the terms of the Ford Service Promise, available from participating Ford Dealers nationwide, customers who have their Ford car serviced can look forward to lowest price servicing with a price match guarantee**, free roadside assistance for 12 months, free puncture repairs for 12 months, free fitting of wiper blades or exterior light bulbs and a free car wash and windscreen detergent refill.

“In addition to Ford Econo Check and our other great FREE offers, the new Service Promise establishes a real value for money proposition and standardised high level of customer service across our dealerships. Up to now, there was a varying level of service offers across our dealer network. The new Ford Service Promise makes our service offering more transparent and competitive with any other offers on the market”, said Pimlott.

“It is important to note that the majority of our Dealers now have Master Technicians on their staff thus, customers can rest assured that the best trained technicians are looking after their Ford car. Our technicians know the Ford range inside out and of course, they will also automatically check if a customer’s car needs to be submitted for any service actions or software upgrades – that is not a service that non-Ford technicians can provide”. *Ford Econo Check and the Ford Service Promise are available from participating Dealers nationwide – see www.ford.ie for more details. **Terms and conditions apply, to find out more about the new Ford Service Promise, log onto www.ford.ie or speak to your participating local Ford Dealer.

RHA welcomes new proposals The Road Haulage Association has welcomed transport Secretary Justine Greening’s call for fuel retailers to set up their own code of practice so consumers can monitor daily petrol or diesel prices. “We are constantly highlighting the slowness of filling stations to lower their prices to correspond with the price of oil”, said RHA chief executive Geoff Dunning. “We have all seen pump prices shoot up when the wholesale price of oil is high but the corresponding drop in price when the wholesale price reduces can be painfully slow and pump prices often fail to reach the pre-price hike level. To hear Ms Greening say ‘for fuel retailers not to pass on cuts in the wholesale price of fuel is not fair and not acceptable’, is indeed music to our ears. “We shall of course continue to fight to see the proposal of a 3 pence per litre increase in fuel duty on 1 August. But this latest initiative will go a long way to bringing some relief to all road users.” However, Quentin Willson of FairFuelUK said: “It’s a bit rich for Ministers to try and deflect the issue of pump prices to the Oil companies and retailers.

It is the Government themselves that takes a staggering 81.5p per litre in fuel duty and VAT on every litre sold. Worse still, the Government is sticking to its plan to add another 3.6p of combined fuel duty and VAT on 1st August. This move borders on the desperate. “FairFuelUK has proved with independent research from the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR) that it can actual cut duty and be no worse off. A cut of 2.5p per litre would create 175,000 new jobs, boost growth AND leave the Treasury no worse off due to the tax take on the economic growth. The solution to the fuel price crisis lies firmly inside the doors of Number 10 and Number 11 Downing Street.”

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

19

www.irishtrucker.com CONTENTS Irish Trucker is published by DG Press Kells Business Park, Kells, Co. Meath

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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 2012 The opinions expressed in Irish Trucker do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publishers, their agents or Irish Trucker.

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71 74 77

INDUSTRY NEWS RHYNO MILLS

Synonymous with the production and supply of quality animal feedstuffs

MALLOW COMMERCIALS

25 years in business

REMY DISTRIBUTION

One of Ireland’s leading distributors of ambient and frozen food products

Remy Distribution P28

DEMPSEYS OF CORK LTD.

Celebrating their 21st anniversary

TOPAZ

Big winners at the 2012 Irish Logistics & Transport Awards

OES LOGISTICS

Dublin based nationwide distribution company

LARKIN ENGINEERING

Tyrone Truck & Trailer P53

Recent winners of the European Product Award

ROMAQUIP LTD.

Leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of winter road maintenance equipment

TYRONE TRUCK & TRAILER

One of the leading stockists of truck & trailer parts

BOYLE MOTORS GARAGE

Offering the highest standards in precision diagnostics and problem solving

Kevin O’Leary Group P62

KEVIN O’LEARY GROUP

Operating in the motor retail and contract lease & fleet management business

LONGWOOD TRANSPORT

Success of the business to date

VANSPEED COURIERS

Dublin’s fastest growing courier company

BEIRNE EXPRESS

25 years in business

MG PLANT & MACHINERY SALES

Longwood Transport P66

One of Ireland’s leading suppliers of plant and machinery

82 86

WASTEC

New force in the municipal waste management sector in Ireland

CASTLEDOOEY TRANSPORT LTD

Forging a stellar reputation

90 93

ROTECH

Ireland’s premier supplier of diesel and lube oil dispensing equipment

CLASSIFIEDS

MG Plant & Machinery Sales P77

Port of Cork marks expansion of container handling facility at Ringaskiddy

L to R Brendan Keating Port of Cork, Liam Flemming Maersk, Dermot O’Mahoney Port of Cork & Con Conolly Fyffes.

The Port of Cork has officially marked the expansion of the container handling facility at the Sean Lemass Deepwater Terminal, Ringaskiddy.

These additional handling facilities have enabled the Port of Cork and global shipping company, Maersk to commence their first ever direct service to Ireland which now operates weekly, starting in the Mexican port of Vera Cruz and calling to Costa Rica, Belize and Panama before reaching Cork. This new service has enabled the Port of Cork to greatly increase efficiency both in imports and exports.

The Port of Cork has invested €2.9 million to bring this new service to fruition, with the investment in a new container compound and with the purchase of a new electric RTG (Rubber Tyred Gantry).

Port of Cork Chairman, Dermot O’Mahoney explained how this expansion is essential both for the port and for the local economy “The investment by the Port of Cork in this new facility demonstrates our commitment as a port to continue to grow the container business which in turn, provides a much needed stimulus in Ireland’s import and export trade. Over the coming months, we will be embarking on new projects to continue to grow our facilities and to attract more services such as this into Cork.

“The vessels being used for this service are some of the largest of their type to be accommodated in the port, highlighting the deep-water capabilities of the port and the excellent facilities we have in place to handle such a service,” he continued.

This new service sees a return of the banana trade with Fyffes to Cork which has not been seen in the port since the 1980s.

Celtrak Shortlisted For Irish Field Service Awards 2012 Celtrak a Galway owned and based company was recently shortlisted in the Irish Field Service Awards 2012 held in the Guinness Store House, Dublin. Celtrak provide GPS vehicle tracking solutions to customers in over 30 countries worldwide.

The Irish Field Service Awards are presented to companies that have demonstrated both operational and field service excellence in the past year. Celtrak was shortlisted in two client voted categories: • Exceptional Service – Individual Engineer (Paul Donnellan) • Exceptional Service – Service Department

Joe McBreen CEO, Paul Donnellan, Technical Support, Caroline Geraghty Customer Support, Mary Devlin, Customer Support, Celtrak

Celtrak’s clients who voted for them include local companies Eventus, Hynes Plant, Walsh Waste, national companies Greenstar, H.S.E. Roadbridge and international companies Thermo

King, Driveshield and Balfour Beatty Utilities Ltd. “We are delighted to be the 1st GPS vehicle tracking company short listed in the Irish Field Service Awards. It means so much that our clients voted for us as they voted based on their experience with our Service Department,” Joe McBreen, CEO, Celtrak

2

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Two new Scania trucks bearing the Rhyno Mills name

Rhyno Mills serving farmers for almost a century For nearly 100 years, Rhyno Mills has been synonymous with the production and supply of quality animal feedstuffs in the South West.

Director Paudie O’Connor recently took time out to talk to us about the longestablished family-run business, which serves farmers in Kerry, Cork and Limerick.

20

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Tom Nolan (left) of Nolan’s garage presents the keys of one of the new Scania to Paudie O’Connor

he current recession is nothing

T

Kerry, Cork and Limerick. The family-run

new to Rhyno Mills, which has

concern specialises in the production and

been in business for the past 95

supply of high quality animal feedstuffs and

years and continues to go from strength to

animal supplements, and is one of the few

strength.

companies of its kind that is ISO 9001

Operating from Castleisland, Co. Kerry, which is often referred to as the ‘Gateway to

the

Kingdom’,

Rhyno

Mills

accredited.

“We’ve been producing and supplying

is

feedstuffs for dairy cows, beef cattle, calves

strategically placed to service farmers in

and sheep for nearly a century,” company

MD Paudie O’Connor (right) with drivers Mike Cronin and Jerh Nolan

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

21

Current MD Paudie O’Connor with his father, Sean O’Connor, who was MD of Rhyno Mills from 1949 to 1988

director Paudie O’Connor proudly

standards and to continue to offer the

states.

most competitive prices.”

“A lot of businesses have come and

Rhyno’s state-of-the-art production

gone in that time but we’re still here,

plant has the capacity to produce 2,000

thank God. With agriculture on the rise

tonnes of farm feed per week at peak

again – beef prices are at an all-time

times. While most of the ingredients are

high and the dairy and sheep sectors

imported, Irish barley is also used. The

are also performing very well – we’re

company has a fleet of five trucks,

looking to the future with optimism. Our

which deliver feed in bulk to farmers

policy is to maintain our quality

throughout the South West. Customers Working in the Rhyno Mills store are Mark Collins and Domo Lyne

can also call into Rhyno’s farm feed store, which is located beside the mill, to purchase their animal feed and other farm products. Rhyno’s products are also available from over 20 outlets in the Munster region.

“All our products can be collected or delivered,” Paudie explains.

“We do everything from 25kg bags, to half tonne bags to bulk deliveries. We have five trucks of our own and hire three more during peak times. This business involves a lot of seasonal work, but we’re kept busy all year round.

“We employ 22 staff which is made up of truck drivers, buyers, sales representatives, office personnel and production. All of our drivers are highly-skilled and experienced, and know the highways and byways of Kerry, Cork and Limerick like the back of their hand.”

Recently, Rhyno Mills took delivery of two new Scanias from T Nolan & Sons in Castleisland. One is a G400CBBX4 and the other is a P400CB8X4, and both come with a five-compartment Bulk Blower Tipping Body

22

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

T. Nolan & Sons Ltd. Droumtrasna, Castleisland, Co. Kerry.

Tel: (066) 7141140 Fax: (066) 7141777 Email: tnolan@tnolans.com

T. Nolan & Sons Ltd.

Delighted To Be Associated With

RHYNO MILLS

To Book Advertising Space or enquire about completing a Feature please contact

COLM on 00 353 (0) 46 9241923 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

23

Suppliers of pelleting consumables and equipment to compound feed THE PELLETING and SOLUTIONS Biomass Industries.

PROVIDER Best Wishes & Continued Success To Rhyno Mills

Best Wishes To Rhyno Mills, From

Murphy & Sheehy

Insurances Ltd. E-Mail: info@cfegroup.com

www.cfegroup.com

Wishing Continued Success To Rhyno Mills From

COMMERCIAL INSURANCE SERVICES Telephone: 066 7123099 Continued success to Paudie and all staff at Rhyno Mills.

WE ARE PROUD AND PRIVILEGED TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH THIS PROGRESSIVE AND INNOVATIVE COMPANY SINCE 1981.

THE COMPLETE PACKAGING SOLUTION FOR YOUR BUSINESS Unit 1, Enterprise Park, Knocklong, Co. Limerick Tel: 00353 87 2610492 Tel: 00353 87 7506011 Fax: 00353 62 53968 Email: info@dpack.ie www.dpack.ie

Best Wishes To Rhyno Mills Harbour Road, Foynes, Co. Limerick T: 069 65311 F: 069 65537 E: info@premiermolasses.ie

www.premiermolasses.ie

HORGAN BARRETT & CO. ACCOUNTANTS

AND

Evergreen House Congress Road Cork Tel. No.: 021-4968722 Fax No.: 021-4968952 E: info@horganbarrett.ie W: www.horganbarrett.ie

STATUTORY AUDITORS

Wishing Continued Success To Rhyno Mills From

R&H HALL R&H Hall is Irelands leading importer and supplier of animal feed ingredients for feed manufacturing through its extensive trading, purchasing, shipping and storage capability.

Premier Molasses is Ireland’s leading supplier of liquid feeds for the animal feed sector.

La Touche House, Custom House Dock IFSC, Dublin 1 Tel: +353 1 790 0200 Fax: +353 1 790 0202 Email: info@rhhall.ie www.rhhall.ie

Best Wishes To Rhyno Mills From

SHEEHAN RYAN & COMPANY SOLICITORS (INC. BURKE & CO. AND PATRICK SHEEHAN & CO.)

IRISH

For All Your Legal Requirements Civil & Criminal Litigation | Family Law Conveyancing | Probate | Debt Collection Employment Law 61/62 New Street, Killarney, Co. Kerry T: 064 6634266 | F: 064 6634246 E: reception@sheehanryan.ie | www.sheehanryan.ie

24

& LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Don’t be left in the dark log on to

www.irishtrucker.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

manufactured by Muldoon Transport Systems in Co. Tyrone. Both trucks are fitted with reversing cameras and will be used for direct deliveries to farms over the next few years.

“We’re delighted with the two new trucks. They are far more efficient than the older trucks and work out just as cheap in the long run. You need to be changing your trucks every five or six years and that’s what we always try to do.”

Rhyno Mills has been in the O’Connor family since 1919 when it was founded by William Hugh O’Connor, who returned to Castleisland after a period spent working in Africa. He chose the name ‘Rhyno’, which is an old English word meaning ‘money’. He quickly developed a progressive and modern mill, which he ran over the next 30 years. On William Hugh’s death in 1949, his sons Sean, Liam and Hugh took over the running over the business.

Paudie’s father Sean served as managing director until 1988 when Paudie, his brother William and cousin

further analysis for protein, oil, fibre and ash. Large numbers of samples are tested to provide cost effective and total quality assurance for customers.

On passing the physical and analytical checks, the raw materials are then formulated into Rhyno Quality Feeds.

Expertise in animal nutrition comes from research and experience.

Experienced personnel and the most up-todate hardware and software allows Rhyno to formulate rations that balance biological efficiency with profitable performance.

Rhyno’s formulation recipes are manufactured in the company’s computerised milling facilities. Over the years, Rhyno has built up an enviable reputation for product quality and Ciara O’Connor and Laura performance.

Moriarty, look after the office and administration at Rhyno Mills Rhyno’s mill complies with strict hygiene standards involving Joseph took up the reins. regular internal cleaning and hygiene When buying their raw materials, analysis, as set out under the ISO 9001 Rhyno deal only with approved Quality System. Continuous investment suppliers who provide conformity, in its mill ensures Rhyno is at the consistency and reliability of product. forefront of milling technology.

Rhyno’s buyer regularly visits main In conjunction with the ISO 9001 suppliers to check on product, quality system, HACCP (Hazard storage and handling facilities Analysis of Critical Control Points) are and is in constant contact with used in Rhyno Mills to ensure that the market. Buyer expertise potential hazards in the manufacturing ensures Rhyno sources the process are identified. Every load of highest quality raw materials finished feed is tested for durability and at the most economic prices, hardness before leaving the mill. and the company’s strict As a responsible animal feed quality control procedures manufacturing company, Rhyno is enable it to trace raw committed to protecting the materials all the way back to environment. Noise and dust levels are the place of origin. continually monitored at the mill, All incoming raw materials ensuring that its products and process are initially checked for have minimal impact on the physical quality. General environment.

Best Wishes To Rhyno Mills cleanliness and hygiene are essential pre-requisites for all hauliers approved to transport CONTACT DETAILS Rhyno raw materials. Once For further information about Rhyno the raw materials have Carrigaline East, Co. Cork.

Mills, telephone 066-7141205 or passed Rhyno’s initial quality Tel: +353 21 4371366 Fax: +353 21 4371018 email: rhynomills@eircom.net Email: info@azelis.ie www.azelis.ie check, they are subjected to

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

25

Mallow Commercials celebrating 25 years For any company to reach the quarter of a century landmark, it is a monumental achievement, but it is even more remarkable in the car and light commercial sales industry.

Cork and much further afield.

“Our location is one of our biggest selling points. Mallow is known as the crossroads of Munster, being on the main Cork-Limerick Road and on the N72, which traverses Munster from Killarney to Dungarvan. We can be easily accessed from any part of the province,” he adds.

The company was initially established by

The new Iveco Daily is a popular van

James O'Sullivan Snr in

owever, that is exactly what Mallow Commercials in

H

1987 and it has been a family run business ever since;

Co Cork is celebrating this year and for this

stocking top quality new and used vehicles, ensuring that the

month's edition of Irish Trucker, we celebrate the

customer has plenty of motors to choose from.

O'Sullivan Jnr.

Iveco and Isuzu commercials, light trucks, 4x4s and cars,

company's success and speak to managing director James The company has always prided itself on delivering a quality service to a large customer base and their ethos of putting the customer first has served them well over the years.

As main dealers for both Iveco and Isuzu, Mallow Commercials have expanded in all aspects of their business and they are now well settled in the state-of-the-art premises.

“Both brands are well established in Ireland and have a reputation for reliability, value-for-money and excellence. All of our Iveco and Isuzu models are performing extremely well

Mallow Commercials stocks a comprehensive range of and boasts a loyal customer-base which is the envy of many garages in the area.

If you are looking for a particular model, you'll be able to sit in it when you visit Mallow Commercials' impressive new state-of-the-art premises at Quartertown, Mallow, which is strategically located on the main N20 Cork-Limerick Road.

James admits that business is not what is use to be as all motor dealers and indeed the majority of businesses in the country have found to their detriment over the past couple of years.

“Business has certainly quieten down over the past couple

in what is a very competitive market. We have something to

of years as the Celtic Tiger came to a dramatic halt. New

suit everyone and have customers coming to us from North

sales are almost non-existent, but in fairness the second

26

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

A selection of new vehicles at Mallow Commercials

hand trade is fairly decent at the

increased our services to include DOE

he believes that sales in the second

moment,” revealed James.

standard servicing, valeting and after

hand trade are the key to survival for

sales. We have three highly-qualified

the time being.

Pointing the fact that the banks are reluctant to release money, James

mechanics who will give your vehicle

feels that the trade in new vehicles will

the full check-over. Being a family

business and continue to increase the

not improve until people can secure

business-run business, we have the

customer base. The second hand

loans.

ability to give greater customer

trade is what is keeping this industry

“Of course the main aim is to stay in

support, which gives us a vital edge

alive at the moment and until the

vehicles at the moment, and that is

over larger garages. Looking after our

banks start releasing more money that

down to the banks. People can't

customers' needs is always our main

will not change.

secure loans and until they do, I can't

priority.”

“The money is just not there for new

see that end of the market changing.”

“Customer satisfaction is our priority

Mallow Commercials also offers a 24

and if we can continue to deliver the

hour recovery service and provides a

same level of service that we have

emphasis is more on price these days

truck, van and car wash service

been doing for the past 25 years then

and they have to ensure that they

ensuring that customers can avail of

we will be happy.”

provide quality vehicles at reasonable

their many services.

James admitted that the customers'

After sales are another key area of

prices.

“Customers are far more price

the business and James stresses that

conscious than they were before and

the customer is not forgotten about as

we have to cater for their needs. We're

soon as they leave the forecourt.

fortunate in that we have a loyal

“We would also follow up on new

customer base and we have a lot of

sales and make sure that the

repeat custom, but we still have to

customer is happy with their purchase

ensure that they are getting a good

and any queries that they may have

deal or they will go elsewhere and who

will be dealt with swiftly.”

can blame them.

“In response to this, we have

James admits that these are testing

Mallow Commercials Ltd, Lower Quartertown, Mallow, Co. Cork, Ireland Tel: +353 22 21614 Mob: +353 86 6097808 E-mai l: sales@mallowcommercials.ie www.mallowcommercials.ie

times for motor industry in general, but

Continued Best Wishes To Mallow Commercials From

PARCELFORCE LTD T/A JOHN O’REGAN COURIERS CORK- DUBLIN DAILY

Buttevant, Co. Cork.

Tel: 022 23276 | John Mobile: 087 2570718 Email: parcelforce@live.ie IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

CONTACT DETAILS

Wishing Continued Success To Jimmy & Family From

CLUTCH & BRAKE DISTRIBUTORS SUPPLIERS OF CLUTCH & BRAKE PRODUCTS FOR TRUCKS, BUS & TRAILERS Noel O’Flynn Ltd., Mallow Road, Cork.

T: 021 4305677 F: 021 4305281 E: info@noeloflynnltd.ie

NATIONWIDE SERVICE

www.noeloflynnltd.ie

27

Remy Distribution has made a name for itself in the ambient and frozen food sector

The distribution specialists Remy Distribution is a long-established company offering sales and distribution of a wide range of food products to retail and catering outlets in Dublin and beyond. Managing director Arthur Brett explains more.

I

Remy Distribution Managing Director Arthur Brett

28

n business for over 25 years, Remy Distribution has earned a reputation as one of Ireland’s leading distributors of ambient and frozen food products.

Boasting a fleet of 13 refrigerated and box-body trucks, and operating from East Wall, Dublin 3, the company is an agent for some of the country’s best-known food brands, including Cuisine de France, Dale Farm, Cadbury Ice-Cream, Green Isle Foods, Nestle Ice-Cream and Gallagher’s Bakery. A strong emphasis on quality, reliability and efficiency has enabled Remy Distribution to grow and prosper, even in the face of one of the worst recessions this country has ever known.

“It’s a very competitive business, but we’ve managed to keep our head IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

The firm is one of the main distributors for Cuisine de France

above water all these years,” an understated Arthur Brett says.

“We’ve built up a long list of satisfied customers whose business we appreciate very much. We have a very good relationship with all of our customers and long may that continue to be the case.”

A native of Sligo but now living in Cavan, Arthur set up Remy

Remy Distribution is an agent for Dale Farm

Distribution in 1986 after being offered two franchises to deliver chilled products to shops in Dublin for his former employers Dale Farm. Arthur had managed Dale Farm’s Swords depot before its closure in the mid-1980s, but has retained strong links with the company – which is the largest producer of dairy products in Northern Ireland – ever since.

“There was an opportunity there to start a new distribution

There company has over 25-years experience in the trade

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

29

Gach la an t-aran is fearr Gallagher Bakery, Donegal.

Telephone: +353 (0) 74 9537500

Continued Best Wishes To Arthur From All At Gallaghers Bakery

Our customer focused approach means we work closely with our customers to ensure a high quality accurate on-time solution is delivered.

ONM Systems Limited provides mobile solutions for van sale and field sale representatives.

Implementation delivers benefits such as; • Elimination of error-prone paperwork and redundant data entry • Increase the visibility of mobile workforces • Accelerate delivery cycles • Accelerate billing cycles

VAN SALES | TICKETING | OFFICE SOFTWARE ONM Systems Ltd Caherlavine, Loughrea, Co. Galway T: +353 (0)91 870274 M: +353 (0)86 856 5789 E: info@onmsystems.ie www.onmsystems.ie

Best Wishes To Remy Distribution

Tel: 01 254 2185 VAN AND TRUCK RENTAL NATIONWIDE | CONTRACT HIRE SPECIALISTS Best Wishes To Remy Distribution

National Truck Rental Co. Ltd., Stadium Business Park, Ballycoolin, Dublin 11

www.nationaltruckrental.com Best Wishes & Continued Success To Remy Distribution, From

Mulvaney & Co.

Continental Truck Spares

Mobile Sales Solutions

MAN and DAF Parts Specialists Also Stockists of MERCEDES • SCANIA • VOLVO IVECO Parts

Full range of replacement parts to suit all models of

MAN DAF SCANIA VOLVO IVECO Contact Andrew on

(01) 4133882/83/95 After hours 087 2535973

(Parts also available for older models) C.T.S. Unit E4, Baldonnell Business Park, Baldonnell, Dublin 22.

Tel: (01) 4133882/83/95 • Fax: (01)-4133890 Email: ctsparts@eircom.net Web: www.continentaltruckspares.com

Best Wishes To Remy Distribution

Chartered Certified Accountants & Registered Auditors

Unit 6, The Old Fire Station, George’s Place, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin Tel: +353 (0)1 2854019 Fax: +353 (0)1 2854019 info@mulvaney.ie www.mulvaney.ie 30

For all your Trucking News

www.irishtrucker.com

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

business and I decided to go for it. We still have two trucks with Dale Farm, who have remained very good customers of ours,” explains the managing director, who called his company after his sister Remona who has lived in Germany for many years.

In 1997, Remy Distribution was appointed Dublin distributor for Green Isle Frozen Foods. Two years later, Jim O’Reilly – who ran a successful icecream distribution business – joined forces with Arthur and remained a key part of the company until 2008. “Jim had a wealth of experience in the icecream business and had a big part to play in our growth,” Arthur recalls.

In 2001, Remy Distribution began making deliveries for Cuisine de France and this led to Remy being appointed as one of the bakery’s distributors.

Following on from this development, Remy Distribution became a limited company.

Starting out over 20 years as a bakery producing authentic French bread, Cuisine de France is now a leading manufacturer and distributor for oven fresh bakery and savoury products across Ireland and the UK. Remy Distribution operates no fewer than eight trucks out of Cuisine de France’s headquarters in Grange Castle Business Park in south Co. Dublin, which is located just off the M50 and enjoys easy access to all parts of the capital.

“The Cuisine de France franchise was a big one for us to get. We started off with them in small way before becoming one of their main distributors in 2004. They are obviously a very successful company who have grown beyond all recognition in the last 20 years, and we’re both proud and delighted to be associated with them,”

CONTACT DETAILS: Remy Distribution Ltd, Molloy & Sherry Eirfreeze, Bond Road, East Wall, Dublin 3.

Phone: +35318550115 Fax: +35318550548 Email: info@remydistribution.ie Website: www.remydistribution.ie

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enthuses Arthur who, in his spare time, is a national table tennis coach and runs an Academy in Fivemiletown, Tyrone.

Remy Distribution has two bread vans designated to Gallagher’s Bakery who they recently became distributors for. Based in Ardara, Co. Donegal and the largest employers in West Donegal, Gallagher’s Bakery was established in 1968 by the Gallagher family. It was owned by a Swiss company for a brief number of years before coming back under the ownership of the Gallagher family in May 2011.

“The Gallagher contract is a relatively new one which we are trying to develop and grow. The company is back in There are 15 employees the hands of the Gallagher within the company family and they are eager to make inroads into the Dublin Best Wishes To Remy Distribution, From market. It’s a fiercely competitive business, especially now that many supermarkets have their own in-store bakeries, but freshness and quality will always win out in the end.”

Remy Distribution offers van sales for its Dale Farm products, which incorporate Cadbury and Nestle IceCreams. Both van sales and third party sales are carried out on behalf of Green Isle Frozen Foods, while all of Remy’s work for Cuisine de France is direct 9A Emmet Street, Dublin 1. delivery.

Employing 15 highly-skilled and VAN & TRUCK SUPPLIES experienced staff, Remy Distribution Tel: (01) 8365333 or 8364288 operates a fleet of 11 refrigerated rigid Fax: (01) 8550511 trucks as well as two box bodies for the FILTERS • SUZIES COILS delivery of bread. The Remy fleet is RUBBOLITE LAMPS • MIRROR HEADS TRUCK MARKING• BOSCH LAMPS dominated by MAN, and for good HELLA LAMPS• BATTERIES reason.

“We choose MAN Continued Best Wishes To Remy Distribution, From because of the fact that they are both reliable and economic.

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Dempsey’s have the expertise

Dempsey’s continue to flourish Customer satisfaction is something that all hauliers strive to achieve and to do so is to ensure that all deliveries are made on time, every time.

32

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

T

All trucks are kept in pristine condition

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

ime is of the essence in the haulage industry and even more so when a company is hauling foods around the country. Experience is a vital ingredient in the success of any business and to this end, Dempsey of Cork Ltd lead the way in their field of expertise.

This year, the Glanmire based company is celebrating its 21st anniversary and for this edition of Irish Trucker, we profile the refrigeration specialists and speak to managing director Barry Dempsey about the success of this long standing haulage firm.

Working exclusively on refrigerated transport throughout Ireland, Dempsey of Cork Ltd. has an extensive client list which includes such reputable companies as Horgan's Deli Supplies Ltd., Aldi Stores [Ireland] Ltd., Clonakilty Food Company, Staunton Foods Ltd., Hodgins Sausages along with many others. It is essentially a family-run concern with Barry's wife Aileen and son Daniel involved in the business, while younger sons Darren and Damien are also showing plenty of interest.

Having started out with just one truck (Volvo F6), Barry has built the fleet up over the years and there are now six artics and two vans on the roads providing a nationwide service as well as work in the UK and Europe on occasion.

“When I started out, you could get by with an older truck, but things have changed since then. It all comes down to efficiency now, and if you haven't got the best equipment available to do the job and aren't willing to give the best possible service, you are finished before you ever start.

“These days we operate a double shift in order to make sure that customers get their orders on time. It is essential that they do so, especially in the food trade.

“There is a constant pressure there to ensure this, but we have a very reliable work force, many of who have been with us for years. We keep the fleet up to date in order to avoid any unnecessary downtime, while the main dealers that we purchase the vehicles off look after all the servicing work needed.

He added: “Once we had the business on a firm footing, we decided to go for new trucks. You have to put in the investment if you're to be able to deliver on your promises and keep up with your work.

“Drivers will not stay with a company that doesn't offer trucks of a decent standard either, and for these two reasons we have been buying new ever since.”

Barry's choice of truck ranges between Scania, Mercedes, Volvo and Renault as he feels that these are the best vehicle equipped to do the type of work they carry out.

Dempsey of Cork strive to ensure that the customers are happy with the service they provide and they are always looking at ways to improve their work ethic.

“We are dedicated to providing a top quality service and we try to go that extra mile for our customers. If they are not happy with us, they will go elsewhere, but fortunately we have a good relationship with all our customers and long may that continue.”

33

Best Wishes To Dempsey Of Cork, From

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We Offer The Complete Refrigeration Package i.e Thermo King Refrigeration, Dhollandia Tail Lifts, Cold Rooms, Shop Equipment & Air Conditioning Dublin (01) 4600322 Roscommon (094) 9640045 Cork (021) 4882077 Galway (091) 790788

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Continued Best Wishes To Dempsey of Cork, from

MC CARTHY COMMERCIALS KEEP YOUR TRUCK A TRUE VOLVO, CHOOSE GENUINE VOLVO PARTS Call Now For A Competitive Fitted Price From McCarthy Commercials

Double Your Warranty When Genuine Volvo Parts are fitted in our workshops Watergrasshill, Cork 021 4889700

Clonlara, Co. Clare 061 356360

www.mccarthycomms.ie We have worked hard to get accreditations this past few years, ISO 9001 & ISO 14001 which assures our customers that we keep a high standard at all times.

Of course, like all hauliers, Barry is concerned by the continuous rise in the price of diesel and as an Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) member, he would like to see the government do

Ring Road, Kilkenny 056 7734200 Terms & Conditions Apply

more to help the cause of licenced, tax compliant hauliers.

“It is certainly not a level playing field at the moment. By doing everything by the book, we are effectively losing out to those that are not playing by the rules, which is unfair.

“I believe a lot of the problem could be solved by doing away with green diesel. This would mean an end to fuel

laundering, which is crucifying the industry.

“Some hauliers are being forced to buy their diesel abroad, which from a Government point of view, sees them lose out on excise duty. So, if everyone was to buy it here, it would benefit everyone. A fuel rebate would make so much sense.

“However, it is hard to see anything

The company specialises in refrigeration work

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

35

The fleet has been built up over the years

being done to change this, but it is a problem that needs to be addressed sooner rather than later or more haulage firms are going to struggle to survive.”

Despite all this, Barry is happy with

the scale of the operation at present, there are no plans for expansion.

Indeed, his primary objective is to continue living up to the company's motto: 'Dedicated to Service'.

“If we can continue to keep the

customers that we have, happy and maintain the level of service that we have been providing, then I'm confident that we can meet our goals over the coming years.”

CONTACT DETAILS Dempsey of Cork Limited, Brookhill, Glanmire, Co Cork Office: 00 353 21 4866005 Fax: 00 353 21 4866005 E-Mail: info@dempseyofcork.com

Dooneen, Castleisland, Co. Kerry Tel: (066) 7142143 • Fax: (066) 7142144

Best Wishes Too Dempseyy Of Cork

Telephone:Mike: (087) 2570955 E: info@dalytransport.com www.dalytransport.com Dempsey’s strive to deliver on time regardless whether its day or night

36

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Topaz scoops major awards

Topaz recently claimed the overall Logistics and Transport Excellence Award

Topaz was the big winner at the recent 2012 Irish Logistics & Transport Awards, at which the country’s leading fuel supplier received two awards, including the Overall Logistics & Transport Excellence Award.

T

opaz’ meteoric rise to excellence continued on March 15th last when the fuels and convenience retailer stole the show at the 2012 Irish Logistics & Transport Awards gala dinner in Dublin. Topaz took home the Overall Logistics & Transport Excellence Award and the Logistics & Transport Client/Supplier Achievement Award.

Richard Curran of RTE’s Dragon’s Den was compere for the

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

prestigious event, which is held annually by the Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport (CILT). It was attended by 350 industry representatives from all over Ireland.

The awards attracted over 100 entries, and the judges commented on the fact that very high standards made it extremely difficult to choose the eventual winners. But it’s clear that the judges were in agreement that the Topaz entry was a cut above the rest. Topaz’ Operations Team Leader Mark Koller, who was on hand to receive both awards from CILT president Aidan Murphy, said it was a tremendous achievement for such a young company to win the Overall Award.

“It’s our first time in the three years of these awards and to receive the Overall Award and we’re absolutely delighted. He commented “We were hopeful of winning the Client/Supplier Achievement Award, but to win the Overall Award as well was an unexpected bonus. We strive for continuous improvement in all that we do. It’s in our brand DNA and brought to life in our brand tagline “That’s better”. This award is further recognition that our pursuit of

37

Topaz Dublin Port

excellence has paid off once again.�

As well as a philosophy of continuous improvement in all that they do, Koller puts Topaz’ success down to some other factors also.

The Operations Team have a strong focus on innovation.

This is demonstrated in their clever and strategic use of a tailored stock management package. The team also demonstrate a clear ability to work collaboratively to create efficiencies. They worked with their haulage partners Wincanton and Reynolds to develop a system of careful planning and resourcing to improve fleet utilization while saving costs. Customer Service is integral to the running of Topaz Business and their World-Class standards are evident yet again in a recent study carried out by Behaviour

38

Part of the impressive fleet that keeps Topaz moving

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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and Attitudes. In this study, 99% of their licensees gave Topaz the top ratings of either Excellent or Good for customer service. An increase of 6% on 2010.

Only a few weeks earlier, Topaz was named as one of Ireland’s best managed companies in the Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards Programme.

The Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards Programme, in association with Irish Life Corporate Business, recognizes indigenous Irish companies which operate at the highest levels of business performance.To be recognized, as one

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a long way since then. He added: “Our managers and employees are our greatest asset and our success comes from working together in partnership on a daily basis. These awards recognize the efforts of the 1,500 staff working in 350 Topaz outlets across the country.”

Topaz Energy Ltd., which has its headquarters in Clonskeagh, Dublin 4, is The impressive Ireland’s largest fuel Topaz Cashel convenience brand with a presence in every major of the best managed companies in town across the island of Ireland. 100% Irish owned and managed, Topaz was Ireland is a great tribute to all of our formed by Ion Equity in 2005 when they staff. It’s easy to forget that the Topaz bought the Irish operations of Shell and brand was only officially launched in Statoil.

February 2008, and we’ve clearly come Topaz is committed to creating a better experience for its customers every day. In addition, the company is committed to setting the highest standards in innovation, product choice and customer service. Topaz is particularly proud of its national network of home heat distributors as it takes in every city, town and village in Ireland. The company marks a change for the better, where service, convenience and quality standards are as important as its responsibilities to the environment.

Everything it does, Topaz tries to do that little bit better; from its efficient fuels, which offers more kilometers per gallon, offering Fair Trade coffee to offering delicious quality fresh food and always welcoming customers with a warm smile and ‘hello, please and thank-you’. Topaz is taking a fresh Topaz maintains an approach to how things are done – so immaculate fleet why not pop in and see for yourself.

41

BIT’S ‘N’ BOB’S

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Fuso Canter Eco Hybrid goes on sale Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC) has launched the sale of its innovative Fuso Canter Eco Hybrid truck in Japan.

The light duty Fuso Canter Eco Hybrid Truck truck, which celebrated its world premiere at the Tokyo Motor Show – Japan’s largest automotive exhibition – in November 2011, will also be introduced by Fuso in Europe and other international markets in the third quarter of this year.

This represents a consistent advancement on Fuso’s way to taking a leading role in the field of green innovation. The predecessor model of today’s Fuso Canter Eco Hybrid was already launched back in 2006. The right-hand drive hybrid vehicle has sold more than 1,200 units in markets like Japan, Australia, Ireland, and Hong Kong. The positive response it received on the markets led to the decision to offer the second-generation model in both a right- and left-hand drive version. The highlyefficient and economical hybrid truck is the latest innovation to come out of the Global Hybrid Centre (GHC) in Kawasaki, Japan. The GHC, which serves as Daimler Trucks’ global centre of competence for the development of hybrid vehicles, manages and synchronises the hybrid related activities of all truck brands within the Daimler Group.

Scania’s Driver CPC accredited by the Institute of Advanced Motorists Scania’s Driver CPC course has been accredited by the Institute of Advanced Motorists driver training company, Drive & Survive. The course is officially entitled Safe & Fuel Efficient Driving (LGV & PCV) Scania Driver CPC Module B. IAM Drive & Survive chief executive Simon Best said: “By inviting our examiners to scrutinise its training first hand, Scania more than satisfied us that its Fuel & Efficient Driver CPC course is capable of making a substantial contribution towards improving safety on our roads.”

4

Vestas increase MercedesBenz fleet

Vestas Mercedes Benz

Vestas Celtic Wind Technologies has increased its MercedesBenz Sprinter fleet to 19 units with the purchase of three new 313/36 medium wheel base high roof models.

These latest editions have been supplied by MUTEC Dublin on a 5-year contract hire, inclusive of maintenance, tyres and road tax.

To be based on the West coast from Donegal to Kerry, these vans – each fitted with a workshop designed to store specialised parts – will offer backup assistance to the installation crews of the wind turbines farms located around the countryside.

Traffic corps cameras outsmarting burglars Computerised cameras on board Garda traffic corps vehicles are helping foil fleeing burglars. The cameras can identify the vehicles of suspects, with footage also helping Gardai determine where the burglars are operating. Senior officers have handed the Garda traffic corps a more active role in tackling crime, including the introduction of the Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system. Front and rear ANPR-enabled cameras have been fitted to many of the 321 vehicles currently in the corps’ fleet.

These cameras record plate details, which are stored in a computer in the vehicle, with officers immediately alerted if a suspect car has been spotted. The system was originally used to help detect drivers suspected of being in breach of traffic regulations but has now become a major part of Operation Fiacla – a clampdown on travelling criminals. Since March, a large number of offenders have been detected and it has been reported that Garda intelligence believe some key figures in burglary gangs have relocated to the UK. IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

EU fuel plan causes panic The EU’s decision to push ahead with stricter sulphur limits for fuel had caused dismay among European freight forwarders. Forwarders’ organisation CLECAT said it regretted that the EU had not responded to the joint industry call to postpone the strict sulphur limits to allow investments in mass production of low sulphur fuel and development of cost-efficient abatement technologies. The agreement reached by the Danish Presidency supports the 0.1 per cent sulphur limit in marine fuel in the Sulphur Emission Controlled Area (SECA), which is composed of the English Channel, the North Sea and the Baltic Sea from 2015, compared to 3.5 per cent in other European sea areas until 2020 (and rest of the world 2015).

Nicolette van der Jagt, director general of CLECAT said: “This agreement will increase costs for industry, therefore impacting on citizens’ wealth, without necessarily delivering sustainable result; ensuring a healthy economic and social environment for its citizens. Sulphur emissions have to be reduced but in a cost-efficient and fair way.” “Accompanying measures at EU and national levels through existing or new financial support schemes will be required, if the impact of the Sulphur Directive on companies is to be mitigated.

Whereas there is clearly a need for accompanying measures, this is an area where CLECAT also foresees potential for further distortion of the internal market. We therefore call on Member States to go back to IMO to ensure a better level playing field at global level.” However, CLECAT welcomed the fact that the EU had chosen not to follow the European Parliament in its wish to introduce – as of 2015 – a 0.1 per cent sulphur emission limit in the other European waters.

Major contraband cigarette haul at Dublin Port More than five million contraband cigarettes were recently seized at Dublin Port. The haul, which has a retail value of around €2m, was found by Revenue Custom's officials after a UK registered commercial vehicle and trailer were searched. The Raquel, Pride, Jim and Capital brand cigarettes would have meant a potential loss of €1.8m had they made it to the black market. The driver of the vehicle was interviewed by customs officers and investigations are ongoing both domestically and internationally. Retail Ireland, the IBEC group that represents the retail sector, welcomed the seizure of the illegal cigarettes. The group said over 1.8bn cigarettes smoked in Ireland are sourced from the black market, costing the Exchequer up to €750m every year in lost taxes. Commenting on the issue, Retail Ireland Chairman Frank Gleeson said: "The recent seizure in Dublin is just the tip of the iceberg. Retail Ireland estimates that almost 30% of the Irish cigarette market is made up of illicit product, with over 1.8 billion of cigarettes smoked in Ireland sourced from the black market. "This illegal trade has a devastating impact on retailers, which are already struggling to keep people in jobs. We estimate this activity costs the Exchequer up to €750m per annum in lost taxes. This money flows right into the hands of criminals. We need to see urgent action from Government, including investment of more resources into detecting cigarette smuggling, to put an end of criminals reaping large amounts of money from black market trade."

Waterford firm lead the way Store-All Transport and Warehousing, the Waterford member for The Pallet Network (TPN), has contributed to TPN being highly commended in the environmental Store-All Transport and Warehousing sustainability category at this year’s annual Small Firms Association (SFA) Awards. A certificate of Commendation was presented to TPN by Richard Bruton T.D., Minister of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation. The Pallet Network (TPN) is one of Ireland's leading freight, transport and logistics services providers. Store-All, based in Waterford, is one of the 23 regional national network carriers for TPN. Store-All, founded by Liam Dalton and Eamonn McKenna in 1993, provides storage, retrieval, distribution and management services for all types of commodities with special emphasis on the food and pharmaceutical sectors. StoreAll operates 540,000 square foot of high-grade warehousing at three separate locations in Waterford and employs 45 full time staff. Liam Dalton, Principal, Store-All, said, "Despite the continuing economic downturn, we have focused on becoming as lean as possible, cutting costs while maintaining services. Being part of TPN, a multi-million euro network, enabled the company to grow because of the support and encouragement from the other network members. This year we are going to focus on staying lean and providing the best overnight service and the best customer service. These are the initiatives that helped us thrive in 2011. We are looking ahead to a successful 2012 and hoping to be shortlisted again next year in the SFA awards."

The aim of the SFA National Small Business Awards is to celebrate the achievements of small businesses (with up to 50 employees) in Ireland, and to recognise the vital contribution of the small business sector to the Irish economy and to showcase Ireland's entrepreneurial talent like TPN and its members. Seamus McGowan, Managing Director, TPN said, "TPN and its 23 members are delighted to have been highly commended in the SFA's Environmental Sustainability category. As concern for the environment rises, TPN has taken into account the external costs of logistics associated with climate change, air pollution, noise, vibration and accidents and has put in place a number of systems and new, greener, more fuel efficient equipment to help combat these growing concerns. Our continuing success is down to the 23 committed members that we have around the country. The efforts of members like Store-All have meant that we are meeting the needs of both small and large enterprises and keeping our services levels as high as ever. We hope to continue this success throughout 2012."

6

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Captain Michael McCarthy, Port of Cork, Elected as Chairman of Cruise Europe Irish Cruise Line Business Worth an Estimated 60M to the Irish Economy At the Cruise Europe Conference 2012 held at Royal Greenwich, London in April, Captain Michael McCarthy of the Port of Cork, was unanimously elected Chairman of Cruise Europe. Michael brings over 40 years of maritime experience to the position having served as Master at sea, Marine Surveyor, Deputy Harbour Master and is currently Commercial Manager with the Port of Cork Company.

Michael endorsed the vision of Cruise Europe which he said is “to deliver to the cruise companies a world class cruise destination on behalf of our members”. Between 2005 & 2010, there has been an increase of 84% growth in the economic impact of the European Cruise Industry, bringing the total contribution to €35 billion.

On average there are over 200 cruise calls to Ireland per year carrying approximately half a million passengers and crew.

This cruise business contributes an overall economic contribution estimated to be worth €60 million to the island of Ireland.

Commenting on the Irish cruise business, the newly elected chairman of Cruise Europe, Captain Michael McCarthy said: “There are many indirect economic and tourism benefits to Ireland from the cruise sector, as well as the benefit of introducing Ireland to new markets and growing business opportunities. Cruise visits help to showcase Ireland’s world class shore products, destinations and highlight all that Ireland has to offer visitors.”

He continued: “One of Ireland’s advantages is the strategic and geographic spread of its numerous ports, many of which are in close proximity to world class tourism destinations and it is with this in mind that Ireland will be promoted with the North and Atlantic European destinations to develop thriving and “must see” destinations.”

The cruise industry, as a whole, faces major challenges and it is vital that Cruise Europe members support the cruise lines through effective communications and develop an outstanding service while keeping costs tightly under control, particularly as the lines adapt to the ECA [Emissions Control Area] regulations from 2015.

“These regulations, which will come into force on January 1st 2015, will reduce sulphur limits in fuel to 0.10%. This will result in vessels operating from the English Channel through the North Sea into the Baltic from 2015, to have increased operating fuel costs of over 50%.”

McCarthy also outlined the benefits of being a member of Cruise Europe and the commitment to working closely with the ECC and other representative organizations.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

7

Stena Line Superfast introduces new Mercedes-Benz Actros Freight passengers travelling with Stena Line from Belfast to Cairnryan had the opportunity to find out more about the new Mercedes-Benz Actros as it set sail across the Irish Sea on the Superfast VII. Mercedes-Benz Truck and Van (NI) based in Mallusk and Dungannon recognise the importance of truck drivers to the freight industry and the event aimed to provide drivers with information on the new van which is now easier and safer to drive, and more outstandingly capable than any other truck that’s gone before.

The latest addition to the Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicle range, which was launched this month, puts everything that has gone before it in the shade. Its modern cab offers the driver maximum comfort whilst delivering exceptional fuel economy. The model range offers a vehicle configuration for just about any application in long distance transport.

The event gave freight drivers a chance to explore the exterior and interior of a 2542 StreamSpace cab. The impressive vehicle was parked in the freight queues at both Belfast and Cairnryan with a promotional table set up in the Stena Line drivers lounge. Drivers were able to get more information from M-B Truck & Van (NI) Truck Sales Executives Roy Owen and Paul Smyth.

Paul Smyth of M-B Truck & Van (NI) explains, “This was an excellent opportunity to talk to the people behind the wheel.

We were able to gain their feedback on the truck which is important and helpful to us.”

“Overall the drivers were very impressed with the new truck and all feedback was positive. The surroundings of the Stena Line truck drivers lounge provided a comfortable and relaxed environment to chat with the drivers” says Roy Owens of MB Truck & Van (NI).

Richard O’Loughlin Area Sales Manager for Stena Line Freight added, “Having the new Mercedes-Benz Actros onboard and at the Stena Line terminals in Belfast and Cairnryan was a great opportunity for our freight customers to find out more about this new vehicle as they travelled. It gave them an insight into the new type of truck on the market which will in turn hopefully help their business.”

The new MercedesBenz Actros

DPD Ireland expands Athlone facility creating 50 new jobs DPD Ireland, Ireland’s leading express parcel carrier, today, 19th April 2012, announced a further expansion of its fulfilment and distribution facility in Athlone, Co. Westmeath. And with its latest expansion, DPD expects to create over 50 new positions over the next 18 months.

Founded in 1986, with just 10 depots, DPD has rapidly grown to become Ireland’s leading express parcels provider with a network of 38 depots throughout Ireland, currently employing over 600 people.

“DPD’s business is almost like a bell weather of the Irish economy. It directly reflects Ireland’s changing economic environment. DPD’s customer base has become increasingly cost conscious right across every sector. We’ve had to adapt quickly to that change. Through strong investment in Research and Development and Technical Innovation, we’ve improved efficiencies for DPD and

8

for our customers. We’re delivering their products faster, safer, and more cost effectively.” said Brendan O’Neill, CEO of DPD Ireland.

DPD currently contribute over €40 million to the Irish economy. It has 350 vehicles on the road, carrying over 8 million parcels a year.

Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Richard Bruton TD said: “Today’s announcement that DPD Ireland is expanding its business in Athlone with the creation of 50 jobs is a great boost for the region. This is a company expanding through increased use of technology, R&D and innovation, and through the Action Plan for Jobs we will be seeking to encourage more businesses to follow this path. I congratulate all involved and wish them all the best for the future”.

The web has become a very important tool to DPD. It gives customers access to real-time updates on parcel delivery status and collection updates. This allows the receiver to have interactive delivery scheduling and provide options on delivery points so that goods get to the customer when expected.

Customer feedback indicated that they wanted to have more options around delivery of parcels. DPD’s Predict™

service provides the receiver with a three hour time window in which to expect delivery of their parcel.

“DPD’s growth directly reflects growth in e-commerce and internet shopping. Our in-house development team produces innovative solutions that improve the private consumer experience. We’ve made the parcel delivery process simpler, quicker and easier. We’re already dominating business to business parcel delivery. Now with our large network of depots and vehicles and flexible delivery solutions, DPD are fast becoming the preferred carrier of the business to private consumer market. 52 weeks a year we routinely deliver to over 1.75 million Irish households and 85% of businesses.As a fulfilment and delivery provider, we have to be constantly innovating and developing solutions to suit a constantly changing marketplace – that’s one of the things that DPD does best,” said Brendan O’Neill In business for 26 years, DPD Ireland’s supply chain solution goes further than just pick, pack and delivery. Full customer support and account management facilities are provided. DPD Athlone can act as a gateway for global companies to distribute into the Irish market.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS