Irish Trucker magazine June 2012

IRISH

& LIGHT COMMERCIALS

JUNE 2012 Vol. 15 No. 5 EURO 2.95 stg.£2.50

A FULL PREVIEW OF THE EVENT IN CAVAN ON JUNE 3rd and 4th

ALL INSURANCE QUOTED

• Motor Fleet For Hauliers • Worldwide Transit Risks • Single Vehicle Haulage • Carriers Liability • Warehouse Risks • Employers Liability • Public Liability

MIKE MURPHY INSURANCE GROUP an Aon company

LIGHTENING THE LOAD With over 35 years of experience insuring single vehicles, fleets and haulage risks, we specialise in finding the right product to meet your business needs at the most competitive price

The Insurance Centre, Sandyford Business Centre, Sandyford, Dublin 18 Tel: +353 1 293 2370 Fax: +353 1 293 2350 Email: info@mikemurphyinsurance.ie

Insurefosure Ltd t/a M.Murphy Insurance Group is an Aon Company and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

www.irishtrucker.com CONTENTS Irish Trucker is published by DG Press Kells Business Park, Kells, Co. Meath Telephone: (046) 9241923 Fax: (046) 9241926 ISDN: 046-9248197

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INDUSTRY NEWS

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DIXON INTERNATIONAL Providing a competitive transport service

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THOMAS LANE 4X4 One of the largest 4x4 stockists in Munster

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Thomas Lane 4x4 P26

MIDLAND STEEL SUPPLIES LTD. Leading the way in delivering quality products

e mail: contact@lynngroupmedia.com

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RIGHT PRICE CARS Providing both quality and value

ISSN 0791-993X

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SHANNON ROADMARKINGS Experienced and professional road marking service

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Right Price Cars P34

THE GILL GROUP Celebrating their 40th Anniversary

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EUREKA SOFTWARE Make the Move

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ALAN GRAHAM RECOVERY SERVICES

Alan Graham Recovery Services P48

Offering 24hr emergency breakdown recovery and repairs

52 All rights reserved.

No part of this publication can be published or reproduced in any way without the written permission of the author or Lynn Group Media Š 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.

While every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this publication is correct, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors that may appear.

FULL OF THE PIPE 2012 A special preview of the event on June 3rd and 4th in Cavan

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DIRECT TRANSPORT GALWAY West Coast based courier company

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ROBINSON DISTRIBUTION LTD.

Robinson Distribution Ltd. P82

Scott Robinson on the services the company provide

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PD FLAHERTY TRANSPORT STORAGE & LOGISTICS LTD. An exceptional nationwide container delivery/collection service

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GARY KEVILLE TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT LTD. Delivering a reliable and efficient service

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CLASSIFIEDS

PD Flaherty Transport Storage & Logistics Ltd. P86

First Volvo FH16-750 in Northern Ireland for V Fraser & Sons ‘Thirtieth Anniversary V Fraser & Sons Ltd, based in Cookstown, County Tyrone, have recently taken delivery of a Volvo FH16-750 tractor unit from Volvo Truck & Bus dealer, Dennison Commercials the truck is the first of its kind in Northern Ireland.

The XL Globetrotter cab has been kitted out to the highest specification to offer the ultimate in driver comfort and safety, including ‘Driving+’, ‘Visibility+’ and ‘Personal Safety’ packages, which contain functions and components that make the working environment safer and more comfortable.

Additionally, the Fraser specification includes a luxurious leather and plush interior trim, an in-cab television, fridge and a full-colour reversing camera display unit, which raises Volvo FH16-750 and lowers from a hatch in the dash – a tractor unit functionality unique to Volvo.

An advanced EBS (electronically controlled brake) system with integrated electronic stability program has been specified and the truck has also been fitted with the new Volvo RSS1360 single reduction axle, making it especially suited to high speed heavy transport. This axle also comes with a differential lock to improve manoeuvrability when the road surface is slippery. This arrangement offers the added benefit of optimised fuel consumption.

Externally, the addition of a light bar, air horn and Dura-Bright alloy wheels, coupled with a striking thirtieth anniversary livery, add to the already dramatic aesthetic of this FH16 model.

Having only been on the road for a few weeks, the Fraser International truck has already been turning heads amongst truck enthusiasts at ferry ports across the UK and Ireland.

The family-owned company is run by Vivian Fraser along with his sons, Ally and Trevor, each of whom drive for the business. They have been loyal Volvo fans for many years, since their first Volvo was purchased in 1985 (an FH12 385hp). The latest anniversary 750hp model - which is being driven by Trevor - joins a string of FH16s supplied by Dennison Commercials, from their first in 1998, which was a 520 model, to a 610 in 2004 and a 700 in 2010, which is currently driven by Ally.

Of the Volvo product, Trevor explained, “The power of the FH16 is important for our heavy haulage operation. It has always performed well for us, even in the most difficult road conditions. We also enjoy the comfort and reliability of the Volvo”.

Ally agreed, “We continually benefit from the reliability of our Volvos – they require less maintenance, especially over the lifetime of the vehicle. In our experience, repair costs increase with other truck makes in years four and five of service”.

The Fraser business operates tipping trailers, transporting aggregates, coal and animal meal throughout Great Britain and Ireland on a daily basis.

Vivian Fraser, Managing Director of V Fraser & Sons commented, “We have built up an excellent relationship with all at Dennisons over the years and although we have tried other manufacturers’ trucks in the past, we continue to buy Volvos as their product back-up is second-to-none and the Dungannon depot location is really convenient for us”.

Incidentally, the FH16’s engine also celebrates an anniversary this year. The first 16-litre was introduced to the market in 1987, meaning that 2012 sees the twenty-fifth anniversary of this flagship top-of-the-range Volvo truck engine.

The FH16 is the premium choice for the longest and most demanding haulage operations.

With its excellent driveability, unique comfort, unparalleled safety and extreme durability it is second to none on the road.

The new D16G engine offers even more power and immense torque, making the FH16 ideal for express service in long haul, hilly terrain, or as a real muscle motor for heavy haulage. The 750hp model offers 3550Nm of torque, making it the most powerful production truck in Europe.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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FBD: policy volumes rising FBD has reported a rise in policy volumes for the first quarter of the year, which has stabilised their premium levels. Levels are reported to be on a par with the same period of 2011 even though the Irish insurance market shrank. The group reports growth in its market share and, even though average revenue per policy was lower, a substantial reduction in costs has helped the company hold its ground. Claims are down due to milder weather than the corresponding three-month spell last year, a reduction in travel by policy holders and some cost management initiatives implemented at board level. Road fatalities were down 201% but in a statement FBD revealed: “The frequency of large claims reverted towards the norm from a particularly low level in the first quarter of last year and was in line with expectation.”

Total figures not adding up French oil company Total has reported a 7% fall in its net profits for the first quarter of 2012. Net profits are down to a mere €366 billion, while the group's firstquarter profit when adjusted for earnings on holdings in other companies and stock effects slipped by only 1% to €3.07 billion. Sales for the first quarter were €51.17 billion in the first quarter and the company says refining margins rebounded at the start of the second quarter. Total says its figures were adversely affected by higher taxes than during the same period of 2011 as well as a less favourable climate in the petrochemical and refining sectors. Its output for the three-month period remained stable at 2.37 million barrels per day.

Hostages taken by man refused haulage licence There recently was a frightening hostage situation at Advantage HGV’s training offices in Central London.

Four people were taken hostage at the firm’s Tottenham Court Road premises when a man who had failed to get his HGV licence walked into the building and declared that he had nothing left to live for. The man is believed to have had a gas canister tied to his body and he started throwing computers and furniture out onto the street. Explosives experts and negotiators were called to the scene and the man was subsequently arrested. Advantage HGV is the UK's leading HGV & LGV Driver Training company with over 45 locations across the UK.

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€20,000 Ford car donation set to raise funds for Irish Guide Dogs

Eddie Murphy, Chairman and Managing Director of Ford Ireland; Padraig Mallon, Chief Executive of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind launch the car draw with a little help from dogs in training: Hector, Megan, Kuta and Creem

Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind officially launched their annual fundraising car draw at the Cork City Ford Centre on Forge Hill. The winning prize in the 2012 draw is a brand new Ford Focus valued at €20,000 kindly donated by Ford Ireland.

A number of Irish Guide Dog's staff and their dogs took time out from their busy schedule of training the guide dogs of the future to attend the launch. All eyes were on the candy red Focus which is sure to be a huge hit with the public. Tickets for the car draw will be on sale at events and in shopping centres nationwide from now till the draw on December 1st.

Padraig Mallon, Chief Executive for Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind said, “We are delighted that Ford Ireland has given us such a great prize. This year’s car draw will go a long way to help boost our fundraising income at a time when we need it most. The public’s response to our Ford Focus raffle in 2011 was very positive and this year we hope to raise €120,000 to help fund our services.”

Speaking at the launch Eddie Murphy, Chairman and Managing Director for Ford Ireland said, “We’re really pleased to be able to support a charity that makes such a positive difference to people’s lives, especially at a time when raising funds is such a challenge. Many people are seeking the life changing benefits of a guide or assistance dog, and we want to help Irish Guide Dogs meet that demand.”

Tickets can be bought on the charity's website at www.guidedogs.ie or from volunteers who are selling the nationwide. Tickets are €5 each and the draw will take place on Saturday, December 1st.

For more information about where tickets will be on sale, go to www.guidedogs.ie or call 1850 506 300.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Stocking an extensive range of parts for Scania, Volvo, Daf, MAN, Mercedes, Hino, Iveco and Renault

Wabco Training courses Truck and Bus Parts would like to inform all our customers of the following courses which we are running on our premises: WABCO TRAILER ABS DATE: 10th July 2012 Time : 9.00—17.00 Cost: €295 (Please note this is a one day course) WABCO TRAILER EBS D DATE: 11th July 2012 Time : 9.00—17.00 Cost: €295 (Please note this is a one day course) Light Lunch served each day on site

If you wish to attend both courses, we are offering a reduced rate of €395 If you would like to book a place on our Training Courses Please Contact: James - 087 6412028 james.otoole@truckandbusparts.ie Unit 10 Parkmore Industrial Estate Longmile Road Dublin 12

www.truckandbusparts.ie 01 4098200 sales@truckandbusparts.ie

Dynamic New Ford Transit Custom Brings New Levels of Style and Functionality to the One-Tonne Van Market First look at new 2012 version of Ireland’s top selling van The all-new Ford Transit Custom makes its global debut at the New Ford Transit Custom brings Birmingham CV new levels of style and functionality Show this week, to the one-tonne van market. bringing new levels of style, driver appeal and functionality to the onetonne commercial vehicle market.

Representing a completely new generation of Ford onetonne vehicles, the Transit Custom marks a major step in Ford’s commitment to refresh its entire commercial vehicle line-up by 2014.

With its bold new design, car-like interior and outstanding driving dynamics, the Ford Transit Custom is targeting an expanded share of the segment, appealing to a broad range of professionals, skilled tradesmen and small businesses.

The new model has lost none of the legendary Transit toughness and value, however, combining class-leading load-carrying ability, impressive durability and attractive cost-of-ownership – with best-in-class fuel economy.

“The Transit Custom is a completely new kind of one-tonne vehicle from Ford,” said Jesus Alonso, director CV Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford of Europe. “This is a stylish, modern van which customers will be proud to have on their driveway, while losing none of the hard-working attitude that they expect from a Transit.

“The launch of this new range marks the start of a farreaching transformation of Ford’s global commercial vehicle range. With more new models set to be revealed in the coming months, 2012 is destined to be a very exciting year for our commercial vehicle business.”

With a full range of van, kombi, and double-cab-in-van models, the dynamic new Transit Custom will go on sale later in 2012 in Europe as well as other global markets.

The Transit Custom model will not be offered in North America.

CLASS-LEADING LOAD CARRYING ABILITY Beneath its stylish exterior, the new model remains completely true to its Transit heritage by offering classleading load carrying ability, including a number of innovative new loadspace features.

In addition to offering maximum load volume which exceeds that of its closest competitors (6.0 cubic metres with full bulkhead fitted), the load area of the Transit Custom has been carefully optimised to offer more space and more convenience than any of its rivals. Key features and innovations include:

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· Optimised bulkhead and loadspace design enables SWB model to carry three Euro pallets loaded to at least one metre high · Load-through hatch in bulkhead enables loads up to three metres in length, such as pipes or ladders, to be safely carried inside the vehicle · Class-leading width between wheelarches allows wide loads, such as 8 feet x 4 feet (2440mm x 1220mm) boards to be easily accommodated flat on the floor (or stored vertically if required) · Class-leading height and width of sliding side load doors for ease of loading · Deployable integrated roof rack system seamlessly integrated into the roof, and can be deployed when required. When not in use, the cross bars can be quickly folded down, reducing drag and fuel consumption, as well as keeping the vehicle height under two metres (with the exception of the 330 series) · Repositioned tie-down hooks and fixing points located on the body sides, leaving the floor clear for easier loading and cleaning · Easy clean load floor liner offers enhanced durability and simple cleaning To provide customers with a wide range of payload options from 600-1,400kg, Transit Custom is available with multiple GVM options.

“This may be a more stylish Transit, but it’s a more functional Transit too,” said Barry Gale, Commercial Vehicles chief engineer, Ford of Europe. “The additional features we have built into the load space make everyday functions more convenient – so it’s easier for customers to do their job.”

TRADITIONAL TRANSIT LOW COST-OF-OWNERSHIP AND DURABILITY Like all Ford commercial vehicles which share the Transit badge, the all-new Transit Custom has been developed to offer exceptional cost-of-ownership and durability.

Low running costs start with the class-leading fuel economy, delivered by an improved version of Ford’s 2.2litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine. Available in 100PS, 125PS and 155PS power ratings, this torquey and responsive power unit now features Auto-Start-Stop as standard on Stage V vehicles, delivering combined fuel consumption of 6.6l100km (42.8mpg) and 174g/km CO2 emissions – a reduction of up to 8 per cent on the equivalent current Transit.

Minimising overall cost-of-ownership was a high priority throughout the vehicle design and development, with key features including minimised maintenance and repair times, a 12-year anti-perforation warranty, and the longest service intervals in the class at two-years /50,000 km/30,000 miles.

NEW GENERATION OF FORD COMMERCIAL VEHICLES The launch of the Transit Custom marks the next step of a complete transformation of Ford’s global Commercial Vehicle range which will see the entire line-up replaced by 2014.

Ford will be presenting larger and higher payload Transits later in 2012. These models will be extensively sold on a global basis, including North America, and will also feature rear-wheel-drive.

Production of the new Transit Custom will start from mid2012 at Ford’s plant in Kocaeli, Turkey, with market availability later in the year.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

EC threat to seven nations over Working Time Directive The European Commission is urging seven non-compliant countries to apply the Working Time Directive to self-employed hauliers.

The EC has warned Austria, the Czech Republic, Finland, France, Poland, Portugal and Spain to take appropriate measures to ensure that the Directive is enforced, stating: “If these member states fail to inform the commission within two months about the measures taken to ensure compliance with EU law in this respect, the commission could refer the cases to the European Court of Justice.” The Directive was adopted in March 2002 “to establish minimum requirements in relation to the organisation of working time in order to improve the health and safety protection of persons performing mobile road transport activities and to improve road safety and align conditions of competition”. But provision was made to exempt self-employed drivers until March 2009. Three years on, the EC claims the seven states “have failed to communicate to the commission appropriate measures taken to transpose the directive”. Self-employed drivers in member states ignoring the directive, and in particular its weekly working time limits, would result in “a non-harmonised framework throughout the EU”, and distortion of competition against those member states which have properly applied the directive, said the commission. The Working Time Driective creates the right for EU workers to a minimum number of holidays each year, paid breaks, and rest of at least eleven hours in any 24 hours; restricts excessive night work; and makes a default right to work no more than 48 hours per week.

Volvo deliveries reach almost 10,000 Deliveries from Volvo Trucks reached 9,954 trucks in March, down by 4% compared with the year-earlier period. In Europe deliveries amounted to 3,952 trucks in March, down 12% compared with the corresponding period in 2011. However, the Russian market continued to show a positive development and deliveries increased to 604 trucks in March compared with 390 trucks in March 2011. Deliveries also increased in Great Britain and in the Baltic states in March, compared with March 2011. At the same time, uncertainty concerning economic and political development in Southern Europe continued to impact truck deliveries in certain markets to some extent. Deliveries in South America continued to be affected by planned production reductions in the wake of new emission requirements, which were introduced on January 1, 2012. In March, deliveries declined by 13% to 1,943 trucks compared with the same period last year. Looking at individual markets in South America, deliveries increased in Argentina, Peru and Uruguay during March. In North America, March deliveries increased 48% to 2,552 vehicles in comparison with the same period last year.

The increase was primarily a result of continued replacement demand.

Strong growth for truck market Truck registrations in the first four months of 2012 were 27.4 per cent up on last year, according to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. April was the 19th consecutive month of growth. The SMMT said the recent upward trend in two-axle rigid volumes remained intact. Artic growth softened, now trending at around 18,000 units annually. DAF continued as market leader for the first four months with a 62.3 per cent rise in registrations. Second and third were Mercedes and Scania. While the truck market grew strongly, the van market fell back. “The relative strength of the 2011 van market continued to dent 2012 performance with the ‘up to 3.5t’ market dropping 19.8 per cent in the month,” said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive. “Trucks remained strong, up 27.4 per cent for the year-to-date, continuing the steady recovery seen throughout last year. Last month’s CV Show saw the launch of a host of new sophisticated and efficient vehicles that will be important to the sector’s performance through the rest of 2012 and beyond.”

Stark reality of Irish shipping revealed Shipping operators had to bring Ireland’s shipping operators had to bring more than 57,000 more than 57,000 empty cargo empty cargo containers into the country last year as battered containers into Ireland last year import levels mean there are not enough of the containers to cope with a growth in exports. Speaking at the launch of the Irish Marine Development Office (IMDO) annual review of the country's shipping sector, agency's director Glenn Murphy said the massive disparity of exports over imports was forcing shipping and logistics firms to import the empty containers from Rotterdam in the Netherlands.

"One impact of the change in terms of import-export ratios has been that we've had to import more empty containers to meet the export demand," he said. "That's obviously a logistical issue and a cost for the operators." Mr Murphy said that 57,112 of the empty cargo containers had to be brought into Ireland in 2011, largely to cope with increased exports of drinks and fresh foods such as dairy and fish products.

That was up 20pc on the number of empty containers that had to be imported in 2010. Mr Murphy said that the number rose about 47pc between 2009 and 2011. The containers -- known in the trade as TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) -are the typical large metal boxes visible on cargo ships plying the world's oceans. Mr Murphy said it is estimated that to import an empty container costs a transport operator anywhere between €300 and €500. That brings the total cost for the 57,000-plus units to between €17.1m and €28.5m.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Irish Sea freight ferry specialists Seatruck will launch a direct service to Belfast on Monday, May The new Heysham - Belfast service will be opened by Seatruck sister vessels “Arrow” and “Ranger”, which will be switched from their current duties into Larne.

Later this year Seatruck will deploy larger vessels on the Belfast route and move the service from Heysham to Liverpool, operating from the Seatruck terminal on the City side of the Mersey.

In Belfast, Seatruck will operate from the Albert Quay terminal - directly opposite the Titanic The popularity of Seatruck’s unaccompanied trailer services continues to grow. Its Irish Sea volume rose by 58 per cent last year, to over 300,000 units. Alistair Eagles, Seatruck’s Managing Director, Irish Sea, says: “The decision to move from Larne to Belfast has been made in line with customer demand and will generate Seatruck additional support for Seatruck. This is yet another Performance exciting step in the Seatruck story and is a key part of our Irish Sea strategy for further development.”

Seatruck’s progress on the Irish Sea market is a remarkable success for the freight only shipping concept. The company now offers over 70 sailings per week on four routes linking strategically placed ports: Liverpool-Dublin, Heysham-Dublin, Heysham-Warrenpoint and the new Heysham-Belfast service from 7 May. Freight volumes have doubled in the past two years.

Seatruck now has 20 per cent of the Irish Sea market and expects further growth as their unaccompanied trailer model continues to gain ground.

Alistair Eagles adds: “We are the only Irish Sea operator dedicated solely to the carriage of unaccompanied freight. This is what the operators want in these tough economic times. Cost control is vital, but with no compromise on service. We provide operators with real economies, as the unaccompanied trailer is the most cost-effective way to move goods.

Driver-accompanied movements are much more expensive. Our solution also reduces road mileage. Heysham and Liverpool – our primary UK ports – are much closer to the origin and destination of goods, compared to traditional routings through Scotland and Wales”.

Seatruck operate the youngest fleet on the Irish Sea. The most recent addition, “Seatruck Performance”, entered service this week on the Heysham – Dublin route, adding capacity to this service. Seatruck Performance is the third in a series of four newbuildings constructed by leading European shipyard FSG. The new FSG vessels have a length of 142 m, breadth of 25 m and a capacity of 151 units (35 more than the earlier “P Class” ships).

The final FSG vessel, “Seatruck Precision”, will be delivered in June and will also be deployed on the Irish Sea.

Measures sought to combat car sales slump The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) has announced that new car sales fell by 22% in April, compared to the same month last year. The figures reflect the decline in showroom footfall around the country and lack of retail activity, according to the SIMI. Alan Nolan, Director General of the SIMI said: "While the industry is still trying to drive sales, the reality is that the peak selling period of 2012 is now over. Because of the seasonal nature of car sales, sales will continue to decline month on month for the rest of the year." According to the SIMI, 80% of all new cars are sold in the first half of the year. Mr Nolan said: "Every year, we see the same pattern; a spike in car sales in January and then a decline, month on month." "What this means is that staff who are taken on for the busy first quarter, often have to be let go mid year because of the lack of activity throughout the rest of the year." The CSO recently revealed that in the first six months of 2011, 1,300 jobs were created, however, in each subsequent quarter of the year, there was a decline in employment.* The SIMI wants the Government to introduce a second registration plate mid-year. This would create a second sales peak and would maintain and stabilise jobs. "If there was, like in the UK, a second registration plate in June, the industry would now be gearing up for another busy sales period. But because of the current system, retailers now have to wait until next January, another eight months, for any potential improvement in sales. "A second registration peak mid year would not only assist the Motor Industry but would increase employment, stabilise existing jobs, increase tax revenues for the Government and also add value to motorists's trade ins." Currently, a car purchased in December is valued the same as a car purchased in January, a second plate will add value to those bought later in the year.

"Experiences in other markets indicate that the change in registration plate will generate extra sales and extra Government revenue. Applying this to Ireland, we would see Government revenues increase by over €20m in the first year of the change alone."

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DHL announces logistics partnership with Paralympics Ireland DHL, the world’s leading logistics company, has announced it has become the “Official Logistics Partner” to the 2012 Irish Paralympic Team. DHL Global Forwarding, the cargo arm of the company, will provide full logistics support for the team’s participation at the London 2012 Paralympic Games this August - moving over 100 pieces of equipment and kit from Dublin to the pre-Games training camp in Portugal, before transporting the specialist sports equipment for use in London. The partnership was announced today at DHL’s Irish headquarters in St. Margaret’s, close to Dublin Airport.

“DHL Global Forwarding has the network infrastructure to ensure that everything gets to where it needs to be, when it needs to be there to support our elite Paralympic athletes. We are right behind the Irish team’s pursuit of success in London and the whole DHL team is thrilled to be involved”, says Maurice Meade, Managing Director, DHL Global Forwarding Cathal Miller, Paralympic cyclist, Liam Harbison, CEO of Ireland.

Paralympics Ireland, Maurice Meade, Managing Director of DHL Liam Harbison, CEO of Paralympics Ireland, noted that the Global Forwarding Ireland and Enda Smyth, Paralympic cyclist support of DHL Global Forwarding is very much appreciated.

“There’s a significant logistical challenge involved in moving a huge amount of athlete equipment from Dublin to Portugal and then on to the Games.

We’re delighted to have the backing of DHL Global Forwarding’s expertise - we know that everything will arrive on time and in good order.”

Ireland is targeting a team of around 40 athletes across 10 sports and has already secured 30 slots in athletics, boccia, cycling, equestrian, powerlifting, rowing, sailing, shooting and table tennis. The full team will be announced on 28 June.

BP profits drop further Oil giant BP has revealed a dip in profits as its commitment to sell off billions of pounds of assets in the wake of the Gulf of Mexico disaster hit production. The group reported underlying replacement cost profits of 4.8bn (€3.62bn) in the first quarter, compared with $4.98bn (€3.76bn) in the previous quarter and expectations of $5bn (€3.77bn). The group reported a 6% decline in oil and gas production to 2.45 million barrels of oil a day as its programme of asset disposals since 2010 hit 23bn (€17.37bn). BP sold businesses in the US, Canada and the North Sea in the period. BP said the total charge taken to cover the impact of the fatal Deepwater Horizon explosion in April 2010 remained at 37.2bn (€28.1bn) in the period.

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Easytrip Services Ireland Expand Sales Team Easytrip, Ireland’s largest provider of electronic tolling services has today announced the appointment of Greg Daly as Business Accounts Sales Manager.

As Business Accounts Sales Manager, Greg will be responsible for client service and new business sales for general tolling and parking, plus Easytrip’s new Trans Europe service for international tolls and VAT recovery. Greg will work closely with the management team to expand this new international service to existing and new fleet transport clients.

Greg has a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce from University College Cork and has over five years sales experience, commencing his career with The Carphone Warehouse in 2007. Prior to joining Easytrip, Greg worked for Mars Ireland as Greg Daly Easytrip’s a Sales Developer, with responsibility for Business Accounts accounts such as Musgraves and BWG Sales Manager stores. Greg was responsible for account management, selling in promotions to stores and maintaining regular sales by controlling availability of listed lines.

Commenting on the appointment, Dermot MacEvilly, CEO of Easytrip said, “These are very exciting times for Easytrip. We are expanding our tolling solution service across Europe and introducing a range of additional services. We are delighted to have Greg on board to drive our new Trans Europe business and highlight the savings and convenience of the new services on offer to our existing and new customers alike,” he concluded IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Road Safety Authority CEO Noel Brett opens new Autoglass Safety Training Centre in Waterford • Internationally recognised Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA) training will train technicians to highest standards • Properly fitted windscreen accounts for 30% of vehicle’s structural integrity • Autoglass campaign to call for better regulation and safety standards 24 April 2012: In keeping with its commitment to innovation in delivering the very highest quality and safety standards, Autoglass, the leading vehicle glass windscreen repair and replacement company, has today unveiled its new Automotive Technician Accreditation centre in its Waterford facility.

The new ATA centre, the first of its kind in Ireland, will be used as a location for the comprehensive training of Autoglass staff to meet the internationally recognised Automotive Technician Accreditation.

The ATA demonstrates to customers that the technician who has fitted their replacement glass has achieved the highest levels of technical competence and professional responsibility in the repair of vehicle glass.

The ATA process is monitored independently by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) who oversee practical skills tests and knowledge based exams that must be retaken every five years.

Autoglass is honoured that the Chief Executive of the Road Safety Authority, Noel Brett, attended the official opening

Rallye 3000 launched The Rallye 3000 is the “original of the species”, it was a ground breaking product on its introduction 15 years ago and has remained the number 1 choice of truckers and 4X4 specialists throughout Europe ever since.

However it is time now for HELLA to raise the bar and offer our many fans a new innovative and modern product that suits the various new stylish vehicles of today. It also has to have the very best in lighting performance.

Introducing the Rallye 3003 available in both clear lens and blue lens with side light bulbs, this is the future of high quality performance lighting.

Key features: • Unique styled housing design with iconic “Hella” logo’s on each side • Silver design ring gives high quality look.

• High boost reflector giving vast illumination of the road ahead (ref. 37.5) • With clear real glass lens (clear or blue) • Manufactured in Germany For a limited time we have an introductory Rallye 3003 kits, in blue glass with side lights, with bulbs and wired with DIN plug. These are available at very special prices starting from €105 + VAT Speak to your local Motor Factor to get your hands on this great deal, it is a limited IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

today, demonstrating the commitment of both Autoglass and the RSA to the highest standards of vehicle safety.

Autoglass has undertaken this initiative not only to achieve the highest possible safety standards but also to differentiate itself from competitors who do not apply similar levels of rigour and training to their work, nor are they required to under present regulations.

Speaking at the opening, Mr Brett commented “Autoglass is to be congratulated for opening this ATA centre and I am delighted to be here today on behalf of the Road Safety Authority to preside over today’s event. While much progress has been made in recent years to reduce the number of deaths on Irish roads, we have still some distance to go to meet the best international standards.

“Clearly improvements in vehicle safety are an important part of this, and I applaud Autoglass for ensuring that all their technicians achieve the highest possible standards of training.”

The General Manager of Autoglass Ireland, Mr Heiner Herz added “Autoglass has voluntarily developed this centre and the ATA process in an attempt to proactively introduce a proper level of vehicle glass repair and replacement qualifications into the Irish market. At present, the sector is largely unregulated and anyone can start-up a windscreen fitting business without any qualifications and standards.

“This is a potentially very serious situation given that a properly fitted windscreen accounts for up to 30% of the structural integrity of a vehicle.

“Autoglass is embarking on a campaign to highlight the importance of properly fitted windscreens and will be bringing our findings to industry partners and relevant authorities in the coming weeks.” offer and will only last while there is stock available. If you have any questions or need further information in regards these lamps or any other Hella Products, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01 8620000 and speak to a member of our sales team.

New Hella Logo The Hella name has been a mark of quality for more than 100 years. Success has been built on continual innovation and relevance to the marketplace. And like all great brands, Hella must move with the times.

Hella stands for new ideas, quality products and outstanding customer service. Over the coming months, you’ll notice that the Hella brand identity has evolved. The company is in the process of overhauling its logo and corporate design, creating a more modern and eyecatching look – but without discarding all that’s good about the brand.

In the automotive world, Hella is a true icon. Since its introduction in the mid 1920’s, the famous logo has become known across the world for new ideas, quality products and outstanding service. The current re-brand is only the second change in its history.

The new brand will make it easier for customers to understand the broad product range of today’s Hella. The original logo was unmistakably designed around the idea of a headlight beam. But, whilst the latest version retains a strong link with the brand’s heritage, it also reflects the fact that Hella is now a major player in diverse areas such as electronics and electrics.

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Ford’s Sporty Kuga Commercial gets the job done for Eircom Ireland’s leading telecom services provider, eircom, has taken delivery of 20 new Kuga Commercial vehicles for its national team of radio site engineers.

The Kuga is powered by Ford’s efficient 2.0 litre TDCi diesel engine and has four wheel drive capability enabling the eircom teams to gain easy access to off road sites.

Michael Lynch, Head of Transport & Logistics for eircom, said: “Our teams need a tough, reliable vehicle in their daily work and the initial reaction to the new Kuga has been very positive. The Kuga has the right mix of style, versatility and toughness”.

Ciarán McMahon, Ford Ireland’s Commercial Vehicle Sales and Marketing Manager, said: “Our Kuga Michael Lynch, Head of Transport & Logisitics, eircom; Willie Garbutt, Fleet Manager, eircom; and Ciarán McMahon, Ford Ireland’s Commercial Vehicle Sales Commercial is the ideal stylish package for any and Marketing Manager, with some of the new eircom Kuga Commercial models business user who needs that little bit more muscle in their daily work. And with prices from €26,604*, it truly is a great value package”. Standard specification on the Kuga Commercial includes ESP (Electronic Stability Programme), 6 airbags, air conditioning, 17-inch wheels, 6-speaker remote radio CD, front fogs, trip computer, keyless start with Ford Power button, body colour rear spoiler and leather steering wheel. The Kuga has best-in-class Euro NCAP safety ratings, with a 5 star rating for adult occupancy protection.

Eye Catching Econics

Mercedes-Benz Econic

Householders in Naas will shortly enjoy the sight of this new sky-blue Mercedes-Benz Econic unit, three of which are being delivered to local waste collection service providers AES Limited.

Supplied by Motor Distributors to Walker Vehicle Rentals, the three Mercedes-Benz Econics have 330hp engines and Allison automatic transmission.

Their low entry refuse collection chassis were fitted with a Faun Vario Press II body, complete with auto lift and AMCS on-board weighting system.

Part of Bord na Móna, AES services over 95,000 homes across Leinster and North Munster. The new units will compliment other units in the AES MercedesBenz fleet.

Alcohol exports reach €1bn The Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI) has published a new report that reveals Ireland is just outside the top 10 exporters of alcohol in the world. The report, Beverage Exports 2000-2011, by Anthony Foley of Dublin City University Business School, says that Ireland is ranked 11th internationally in terms of size of alcohol exports. It also concludes that the value of Irish alcohol drinks exports are more than €1bn. The report also shows that while the United Kingdom and North America continue to be the main markets for Irish beverages overseas, there is major potential for additional sales to China, India and other major emerging markets. The author of the report, Anthony Foley, said: “Ireland continues to over-perform in terms of beverage exports. "In terms of international position Ireland is ranked 11th in order of size of alcohol exports compared to 33rd for overall merchandise exports. The Irish share of world alcohol exports is 2.4% compared with 0.8% for overall merchandise exports. "The value of these exports increased each year from 2000 to 2003 when it reached €1bn in value for the first time. This peaked in 2007 when over €1.3bn worth of products were exported, and while there have been declines in recent years due to the international recession, the future remains positive given the wider success of Irish food and drink products in key global markets."

Company closures continue An average of five companies a day went bust in April with 154 insolvencies recorded, a 15pc rise on the 130 insolvencies recorded in March, latest InsolvencyJournal.ie figures revealed yesterday. Year-on-year figures for company failures in April are, however, down by 5pc compared to April 2011. The cumulative total of insolvencies from January to April of this year now stands at 585, 4.6pc higher than the same period last year. Regionally, Leinster accounted for the highest proportion of company failures, making up 65pc of the overall total.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Car Medic win double silver at the Irish Franchise Awards On Friday, April 27th at the RDS Concert Hall, Dublin the winners of the Irish Franchise Awards 2012 were announced and Car Medic scooped 2 silver medals presented by Minister for small business John Perry, TD. The Irish Franchise Awards recognise excellence in franchising and rewards the outstanding achievements of businesses and individuals in the franchise industry. Car Medic was awarded a silver medal in the category of Best Emerging Franchise and a further silver medal in the Most Innovative Marketing Category. The judging panel for the 2012 Ulster Bank Irish Franchise Association Awards included Irish Dragon and Newstalk Presenter Bobby Kerr; Orna Stokes, Senior Manager SME & Franchising Ulster Bank; Orla Nugent, Director Executive MBA, UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School; Greg Swift of Dublin County Enterprise Board and Cian O Mongain from the Sunday Business Post.

The award categories represented both retail and service industries and local businessman Paul Callan shared the stage with Irish and International household names. McDonalds were presented with the Pictured at the Ulster Bank Irish Franchise “Outstanding Contribution to Franchising in Ireland” Award and other Association Awards are Minister John Perry and Paul Callan (Double Silver Medal Winner for Best award winners included Boston Brand Bars, Fastway Couriers, The Emerging Franchise Service and Most Zipyard, CEX, Funky Monkeys, Hillbilly’s Fried Chicken, FitKids, Innovative Marketing Award) Cartridge Green,Motivation Weight Management Clinics, Snap and Chem-Dry Ireland. Paul Callan, Master Franchisor of Car Medic in Ireland said “We are thrilled to have won these two awards and to share the stage with such long established franchises is a great honour for a small business like us just getting started. We pride ourselves in providing our customers with the very best value and quality of service. Our new Silver Franchise packages give people an opportunity to work for themselves but not by themselves at a relatively low start up cost. We are thrilled to have 2 silver medals to go with our silver franchise packages” Car Medic repair cosmetic damages, scuffs and scratches to vehicles at customers’ homes or places of work and offer outstanding value due to a clever franchise model and low overheads. New cars depreciate from the moment they leave the showroom and used cars, particularly those bought in affluent times, are most often now in negative equity so people are trying to keep their cars on the road longer. The Car Medic innovative SMART repair system is up to 70% cheaper than body shops and uses the best quality products available. Car Medic also takes the body shop to the customer at work or at home with their fully equipped mobile units so the vehicle can be repaired in hours rather than days. See www.carmedic.ie The Irish Franchise Awards ran in conjunction with the Ulster Bank Irish Franchise Association EXPO which took place on Friday 27th and Saturday 28th of April at The RDS. The exhibition was a showcase for Irish franchisors and the franchising sector displaying excellent franchise opportunities while maintaining a strong focus on business format franchising. Car Medic was a highlight at the EXPO and one of the most popular stands. The awards were presented at the RDS Concert Hall on Friday April 27th 2012. The ceremony was an impressive business event reflecting the strength of the franchise sector in these challenging times. According to the latest Irish Franchise survey, the sector contributes €2.4 billion to the Irish economy with 4,086 operating units on the island of Ireland and provides 42,927 full-time equivalent jobs to the economy.

Green light given to dual carriageway Northern Ireland Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy, recently announced his decision to proceed with the £100million A8, Belfast to Larne, dual carriageway scheme.

Having considered the Inspector’s Report into the Public Inquiries on the A8 scheme, the Minister has tasked Roads Service to progress the project, taking into account the Inspector’s recommended amendments. The Inspector recommended that the proposed dual carriageway should be constructed in accordance with the preferred route, which bypasses Bruslee and Ballynure. Construction of the scheme, by the consortium Lagan, Ferrovail and Costain, will provide 14.4 kilometres of new dual carriageway from Coleman’s Corner Roundabout to Ballyrickard Road. Work on the dual carriageway is expected to start in June this year and take two and a half years to complete. The Department will now proceed with the making of the Statutory Orders for the scheme.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

A8 Belfast to Larne dual carriageway gets go-ahead

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Counties join EU recycling initiative

China trade hub to boost economy The first phase of a massive international China trade hub in the Midlands has been given the go-ahead by planning authorities. Bigger than Dublin’s Liffey Valley and Blanchardstown shopping centres put together, the overall exhibition centre is reckoned to be the largest development built in Ireland. The €175m first phase of the Europe China Trading Hub at Creggan, near Athlone, will be a base for Chinese companies to promote trade and commerce with Europe and the rest of the world. The site will employ 1,530 people after an initial boost of 1,200 construction jobs. The development – which will also have a special Irish division to promote domestic business – aims to provide buyers, traders and manufacturers with a one-stop shop to assess products before placing bulk orders. While discussions have taken place with some Chinese manufacturers, no companies have signed up to base themselves at the Athlone facility.

FTA launch transport guide

The Freight Transport Association has published the 17th edition of its annual European Road Transport Guide for UKbased road transport operators visiting countries in the EU and beyond. Formerly known as the International Road Transport Guide, it has been re-named in order to avoid confusion with some of FTA's newer offerings which cover a larger geographical area than FTA's mainly European road freight interests. The FTA European Road Transport Guide uses country profiles to equip transport managers with the information needed to avoid delays and deal effectively with roadside enforcement. Once again the country sections have been updated and include amended information on public holidays, weekend lorry bans, toll prices and other essential facts for fleet operators in both the own account and hire and reward sectors. This year Liechtenstein and Monaco have been added to the list of countries in the guide.

The Limerick/Clare/Kerry Region, through the Regional Waste Management office, has signed up to participate in a European wide waste recycling project. The region has become an active partner in the ‘Regions 4 Recycling’ Interreg IVC European project, a partnership initiative comprising 12 European Regions with the ambitious target to promote regional contributions towards a European Recycling Society.

“Under the project, local authorities in Clare, Limerick and Kerry will join other participating authorities in making performance comparisons via a common methodology and exchange of good practices in order to improve their recycling performances,” explained Philippa King, Regional Waste Co-ordinator, Limerick/Clare/Kerry Regional Waste Management Office. Ms. King added: “European municipalities are subject to common EU waste management regulations but have taken different approaches to reach the recycling targets.

Differences between the recycling performances are evident, ranging from less than 10 % to more than 70 % from one region to another. Some of the differences can be accounted for by different data compilation practices between regions.” The ‘Regions 4 Recycling’ (R4R) project is led by the Ilede-France Region Waste Management Observatory (ORDIF). Meanwhile, the overall project communication is managed by ACR+ and the technical component is coordinated by the Public Waste Agency of Flanders (OVAM). The 3-year project aims to work on a common framework for waste data observation, selective collection and recycling rates where by assessing the local instruments (technical, economic or legal) with the aim to reduce the recycling performance gap between the EU regions.

A Friend in need ... true friends Truck drivers Gerry Campbell and Brian Gaskin from Dundalk share a lifetime bond and friendship. The two friends underwent one of Ireland's first and very rare living kidney transplants operations involving a non-relative (not involving a family member to another) Not wanting to see his friend 's health deteriorate further while undergoing gruelling dialysis treatment, Brian demonstrated true friendship by donating one of his kidneys to Gerry two years ago in August 2010. Both friends work for the same haulage company in Dundalk. The two men are supporting this week’s Organ Donor Awareness Week which will continues until 7th April, by asking people to carry an organ donor card and buy a forget-me-not flower (the symbol of transplantation). For organ donor cards freetext the word DONOR to 50050 or contact the Irish Kidney Association locall 1890 543639

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Kidney transplant recipient, Gerry Campbell and his grandson Tadhg (age 4) and kidney donor friend Brian Gaskin IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Monopoly emerges in waste management The Waste Management Association and several of its member companies intend to proceed with plans to eliminate “sideby-side competition” in the waste market and replace it with a system of franchise bidding for area-wide contracts. This would operate in the same way as the deal done by Dublin City Council with Greyhound – except that households or business premises would no longer be able to make their own arrangements to have waste and recyclables collected by rivals, as these companies would all lose their permits. “It’s nuts, just nuts,” said John Dunne, of the association. “None of it makes sense because the Department hasn’t produced any evidence to show that side-by-side competition isn’t working, and delivering real benefits for consumers. And, as they say, ‘If it ain’t broke, why fix it’?” The new regime would give local authorities control of the municipal waste stream, even though most of them have handed over waste collection to private companies. Laois County Council was the first to leave the market as long ago as 1985, while Kerry County Council recently sold out for about €500,000. With only two local authorities – Galway City Council and Waterford County Council – still collecting household waste, 98 per cent of the business is now in the hands of private companies such as Greyhound, Greenstar, Oxigen and Panda. And they all expect to make plenty of money from what were previously lossmaking operations.

DHL Global Forwarding named Freight Forwarding Company of the Year 2012

Jobs for Artic Drivers Following on from their successful partnership with the Ventura Bus company in the recruitment of Bus drivers for jobs in Australia, the Swilly Group has been asked to assist in the recruitment of 20 Articulated Truck drivers for a major haulage company for work in Ireland.

Drivers with an E+C licence, 2 driver CPC modules completed and a minimum of 2 years Artic driving experience are invited to apply for available driving positions. Successful applicants will be asked to complete a driving assessment in Dublin next week.

John Henry, Chairman Eastern Section of CILT presents the Freight Forwarding Company of the Year award to Maurice Meade, Managing Director of DHL Global Forwarding

DHL Global Forwarding, the air, ocean and road freight specialist at Deutsche Post DHL, has been acknowledged as the Freight Forwarding Company of the Year at the annual Irish Logistics and Transport awards. The presentation was made before a packed audience of leading players in the industry at a gala event held in Dublin.

“Our customers are our priority and we strive for excellence in everything that we do for them. We are delighted to receive this industry accolade which acknowledges our commitment to bringing innovation to the industry and our ongoing efforts to deliver real value to our customers operations” said Maurice Meade, DHL Global Forwarding Managing Director in Ireland.

The Irish Logistics and Transport Awards are organized by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport - with the aim to celebrate excellence in the industry. The awards also seek to encourage teams and individuals to constantly raise the bar, to innovate and to maintain commitment to the transport and logistics sector.

The panel of judges was impressed by the company’s demonstrated resilience and ongoing excellent performance despite the economic challenges and on the clear commitment that DHL makes to their customers and to continuously measuring and improving the satisfaction levels they enjoy.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

For more information, Contact Susan at the Swilly Group offices on (074) 91 51212 or email your details to info@swillygroup.com.

Ring road re-named to aid motorists Part of the Cork city ring road is to be renamed the N40 to make it easier for motorists to find their way into the city.

The National Roads Authority is to re-sign a section of the existing N25, between the N8 Dunkettle Interchange and N22 Poulavone to Tralee, to create the N40. Work on the re-signing will begin next week, and will take six months. It is the first step to creating a single national road corridor.

"We are changing the signs for consistency," a spokesman said. "This. . . also future-proofs the road. There will be a northern section of the ring road completed in the future going around the city, which will all be part of the N40."

17

Easytrip Services Ireland Expands Car Park Sales Team

Cyril Escobar, Easytrip Car Park Commercial Manager

Easytrip, Ireland’s largest provider of electronic tolling services has today announced the appointment of Cyril Escobar as Car Park Commercial Manager.

In his new role, Cyril will be responsible for developing Easytrip’s Car Parking Division through acquisition of new car park partners, as well as driving the company’s commercial strategy to grow the number of Easytrip tags on the market with the parking service. In addition, an element of his job will include responsibility for sales of Access Control products.

Cyril has been in sales for nine years, with more than five years’ experience in the office products industry while working for Lyreco. Cyril spent three years in the parking industry as the Sales Manager for APCOA Parking Ireland, where he was in new business sales for their Private Sites Division.

He has the French equivalent of a degree in Hotel Management from University of Blois in France and has been living in Ireland for 14 years.

Commenting on the appointment, Dermot MacEvilly, Chief Executive Officer of Easytrip said, “These are very exciting times for Easytrip. We are expanding the car parking side of our business and we are delighted to have Cyril on board to grow the number of new car parks with the Easytrip service and consequently our customers who use our tag for parking. Cyril’s background in the car parking sector gives us a very strong position from which to build on our successes to date,” he concluded.

Report tells of smuggling problem Retail Ireland, the IBEC group that represents the retail sector, has welcomed the publication of Japan Tobacco International (JTI) Ireland’s Illicit Tobacco Trade Review 2011 and urged the immediate implementation of the report’s recommendations to curb the illegal cigarette market. Retail Ireland chairperson, Frank Gleeson, said: "Retailers know only too well the impact of cigarette smuggling- loss of custom, loss of revenue and loss of jobs. JTI estimates that around 1 in 4 cigarettes smoked in this country is sourced through illegitimate channels and that almost €46m in illegal tobacco was seized by customs officials in 2011. These figures highlight the urgent need for coordinated action to build on the success achieved

by Revenue and the Gardai in uncovering these products in recent years. "Key to tackling the illegal tobacco trade is, as the report suggests, the establishment of an inter-departmental committee on the illegal tobacco trade to ensure all arms of Government are working in tandem. Together with the regulation of street markets, the treatment of tobacco smuggling as a serious crime and the implementation of practical legislation, today's report offers a blueprint for driving criminals out of the tobacco trade while protecting consumers and the legitimate retail sector."

Reward offered for missing trailer A Montracon trailer with a Thermo King fridge unit went missing beside Dublin Airport and we are looking for help in tracking it down.

The unit was on hire from HireCo and was last seen in Dublin Airport in December. The trailer was dropped beside Dublin Airport when it went missing Anybody who can help, please contact Matt Finn at Caffrey International, 353 (0) 1 835 5222. There is a reward on offer for information leading to its return.

Fleet Number:3025. (Written on each Corner) Colour: White Rear Doors: HIRECO (written in Orange). Chassis Colour: Black.

Registration No: AO 2653 Trailer Make: Montracon. Trailer Year: 2007. Fridge Unit: Thermo King 18

Consumer sentiment sees fourth rise in a row in April The KBC Bank Ireland/ESRI consumer sentiment index rose to 62.5 in April from 60.6 in March. The April gain marked the first time there has been a sequence of four monthly gains in a row since January 2007. KBC said that at current levels, the sentiment index suggests Irish consumers are still cautious about the state of the economy and their personal finances. KBC's chief economist Austin Hughes said the improvement in consumer sentiment did not appear to reflect a notably more positive view of current circumstances but instead it seemed that people are notably ''less fearful'' about more extreme downside risks to the economic outlook. He said that while spending power is still severely constrained, a strong ''precautionary'' motive for postponing major decisions could begin to slowly fade as the threat of sharply poorer economic circumstances diminishes. If the sort of economic tremors that repeatedly undermined confidence through the past couple of years can be avoided for the rest of 2012, the fear factor should ease further, he said. ''We remain a considerable distance from conditions in which a ''feel good factor'' might emerge but, in a still very uncertain world, a continuing easing in nervousness among Irish consumers is probably about as much as could reasonably be expected and should begin to underpin domestic spending,'' the economist said.

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Dixon’s continue to deliver

There are not many companies that can compete with Dixon International Transport, which has become one of Ireland's leading transport and logistics companies.

O

perating on a national and international scale, this Swords based company has established a client list that covers some of the leading multi nationals based in this country.

Experience is vital in the transport industry especially in the current economic climate as every decision has to be made with the utmost precision and to this end, Dixon's have that commodity in abundance.

Established in 1978, this family run business specialises in refrigeration and general transport work, supplying a specialised service to their long standing customer base.

For this month's edition of Irish Trucker, we profile the company and speak to Managing Director Michael Dixon about the success of the business.

Located in Swords, Co. Dublin the head office is in close proximity to the M1, the M50 and also the Port Tunnel, the company is ideally located to carry out their daily duties.

“We provide a competitive transport service to destinations throughout Europe and the UK and we also have a central European base located in Olen, Belgium,” revealed Michael.

The Dixon name has become synonymous with the transport industry over the years as Michael's father of the same name started out over four decades ago. In 1998, Michael took over the business after the company had ceased to trade for a few years and starting from the very beginning again, he built up the

20

fleet to where it is today.

“The fleet consists of more than 65 top of the range trucks and 100 trailers. We have invested in a modern high spec fleet with a variety of truck types, so that we can ensure that the customer requirements can be accurately matched. Every type of trailer is represented in our yard. As a result of the diverse selection of trucks and trailers, we can transport every thing from foodstuffs to machinery and from hazardous goods to furniture.

“Scania and Volvo would be our preferred choice of trucks and we have recently purchased ten new Volvos. We try to keep the fleet up to date and modern as we feel this is something that has to be done to keep our profile where we want it to be.

“Therefore, breakdowns and 'trucks off the road' are kept to a minimum. A satellite tracking and fleet management system has been installed in all trucks which allow customers to track their products as they move from anywhere in the world!”

With more than 100 employees, Dixon International Transport is a young, dynamic, company. Drivers are highly skilled and competent and are fully aware of the importance of customer service. All drivers are ADR trained for the carriage of dangerous goods.

“We would employ all local drivers and I must say that they are hard workers and very reliable. They are out there representing the company on a daily basis and without them we wouldn't be IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Michael Dixon (top) and office staff ensure the business runs smoothly

They operate from a large facility in Swords

where we are today.”

Refrigeration work is one of the main areas of transport that Dixon International Transport concentrates on and they have a large selection of fridges, while they have also invested in multi temperature fridges with slider tail-lifts. All of the refrigerated trailers are fitted with state-of-the-art temperature tracking systems. This enables location, temperature and status of the trailer to be available at the touch of a button.

“The multi-temp fridges can be used on a variety of work from full loads of chilled or frozen products to part loads of both chilled/frozen or frozen/chilled. These fridges allow goods to be carried at separate temperatures, thus maximising flexibility for customers.

“All of the Euroliner trailers are of the highest quality.

They can be loaded through the back doors, the sides or through the roof - this ensures ease of loading regardless of type of goods. Each of the Euroliners are 13.6m in length and 2.7m in height.”

For any transport requirements, Dixon International Transport can offer an excellent service that can be tailored to meet the customers' demands.

“We can provide scheduled transport services IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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The Dixon fleet is kept in pristine condition

Wishing Continued Success To Dixon International Transport From

Chemicals

Wheel Wash

Smartgroup specialises in the supply of cleaning products including Car wash Chemicals, Wheel Wash and Floor Care to the Irish industry. We are a one stop shop for all your cleaning solutions. We offer an excellent hands-on sales and after sales service to our customers. We deal with some of Ireland's leading companies. Our clients range from sole traders to multinationals.

Floor Care

SMARTGROUP Gurteenorna, Longford, Co. Longford Cleaning Equipment

Tel : +353 (0)43 33 46152 Fax : +353 (0)43 33 40431 Clive: 086 2423999 (Mobile) E - info@smartgroup.ie

Plant Hire

22

www.smartgroup.ie

collecting and delivering all types of goods and produce throughout Ireland and Europe. We are a fully licensed Haulage Company and have full Goods in Transit insurance and liability cover.

All policies available for inspection on request. All our trucks are fitted with mobile phones and a satellite tracking system so we can offer our customers quick response times in resolving delivery collection times etc.

Michael revealed that a tracking system is in place in all trucks and he stressed this is essential in order to run the business as smoothly and efficiently as they and their customers have become accustomed too.

“A tracking device has been installed in all 65 trucks. This device acts a "Black box" containing a wealth of information about the journey of the truck and it's exact location etc. Using GPS and GPRS technology, vehicles

can be tracked via the internet, day or night from anywhere in the world! Trucks and deliveries can be located at the touch of a button. This system enables us to provide accurate and precise delivery times.

“All our refrigerated trailers are fitted with state of the art thermo king tracking systems.

GPS and GPRS technology is used and linked with the refrigeration unit's micro processor controller. This enables real-time information about the trailer to be available, such as location and status.”

Michael is pleased with the direction that the business is heading in, but like all hauliers, he is feeling the pinch when it comes to the diesel bill.

“The price of diesel has really hit everyone hard. It has now surpassed the wage bill and it seems to be rising all the time.

It's a situation that we have to deal with until there is something done about the

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Dixon International Transport From

Best Wishes To Dixon International Transport

GLOBAL TYRE COMPANY Sales and Service Of All Leading Tyre Brands TYRES • BATTERIES • EXHAUSTS Best Wishes To Dixon Internationsl Transport, From

Paul Kavanagh TN

Limited

T:041 9823282/9823016 F: 041 9880330

24 HOUR BREAKDOWN SERVICE Mullinary, Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan Telephone: (042) 9664069/8 Fax: (042) 9662233 Mobile: (087) 2626274 E: sales@globaltyres.ie or E: simon@globaltyres.ie The Ramparts, Dundalk, Co. Louth.

Tel: (042) 9334815/9332872 Fax: (042) 9330200

Platin Road, Drogheda, Co. Meath Email: info@kavanaghvtn.com

LGV & HGV Tests I Repairs & Services Tachograph & Speed Limiter Calibrations Tyres & Car Wash IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Continued Best Wishes To Dixon International Transport 23

Transpec are delighted to be associated with Dixon International Transport and wish them continued success

Best Wishes To Dixon Internationsl Transport & Wishing Them All The Best In The Future

(+353) 086 8503611 (+353) 042 9376213

Dublin Branch Unit 11, Block B, Kingswood Business Park, Baldonnell Road Lower, Dublin 22 Tel: 01 4642002 Fax: 01 4643112 Mobile: 086 7737890 Limerick Branch Unit 8 Rosmadda Business Park, Ballysimon Road, Limerick Tel: 061 437932

IRISH & LIGHT COMMERCIALS log on to

www.irishtrucker.com 24

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Appearance is everything for Dixon International Haulage

Dixon’s specialise in refrigeration and general transport

prices.

“The business is still growing and we're delighted with that. Our aim for 2012 is to continue expanding and be best in our class and try to be better than our competitors.”

Towards the end of 2011, Dixon International Transport were named the 'International Haulier of the Year and Michael admits that this was a nice accolade to receive.

“We were delighted to CONTACT DETAILS receive the reward and it was down to Dixon International Haulage the hard work Swords Business Park of everyone in Swords the company.

Co. Dublin Hopefully, we Tel: 01-8075380 - 086-6073207 can continue (out of hours) this level of E: info@dixontransport.com success.” www.dixontransport.com

The company was established in 1978

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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An array of Toyota Landcruisers

Taking the fast Lane If you happen to be in the market for a new commercial jeep, Thomas Lane 4x4 Centre can sort you out in double-quick time. One of the largest 4x4 stockists in Munster, the family-run business has been providing an excellent service since its inception in 1988. Irish Trucker met up with director Mark Lane to gain a further insight into the history, success and future credentials of this outstanding operation.

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ustomers of Thomas Lane 4x4 Centre tend to stay for the long haul. As the father and son team at Thomas Lane 4x4 Centre provide exceptional products and services, their customers benefit from an incredibly-high level of repeat business. Offering decades of expertise and experience of their specialist market – as well as a personal and wholly independent touch - Thomas Lane 4x4 Centre is a unique and thoroughly excellent concern.

Thomas Lane 4x4 Centre is a family-owned and -operated dealership located at the foothills of the Galtee mountains in scenic Ballylanders, County Limerick. The totally independent dealership is ideally located, just five miles from the main Cork-Dublin Road - 25 miles from Limerick city and 38 miles from Cork city. This prime location provides convenient accessibility to all parts of Munster and beyond.

Boasting a quarter of a century of experience in 4x4s,

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Thomas Lane 4x4 Centre offers its customers expert advice when it comes to selecting the right vehicle. As they aren't tied in with any particular franchise or manufacturer, they are free to give 100% honest, independent advice at all time.

From an extensive, modern workshop, they service all makes of 4x4, providing an excellent aftersales service to all customers. Stock is updated on a daily basis and there is always a superb choice of fresh and affordable jeeps available, with doors open for business six days a week. Little wonder Tom and Mark benefit from a huge volume of repeat business - predominantly from the local agricultural community - with new enquiries being made all the time.

“We have the freedom to sell our customers the vehicle that’s best-suited to their individual needs and this has stood to us over the years, says Mark Lane, son of founder and codirector Tom. “We will be celebrating 25 years in business next IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Tom Lane 4x4 Centre offers great choice and a spectacular view

year. We started out selling cars and jeeps but the 4x4s have become a specialist market for us. We always sold some jeeps in addition to the family farm but in the nineties we got out of full-time farming.”

The Lanes set up the 4x4 dealership on site on the aforementioned family farm in Ballylanders and they have never looked back. “I’d say around 90% of what we sell at the minute would be jeeps,” Mark continues. “We would have anything up to 60 or 70 jeeps on display here at any given time, and a few quality cars as well. We sell new and second-hand vehicles and we will always go out of our way to find the perfect vehicle to suit each customer.

“We are 100% independent and that’s the way forward. It means you can sing your own tune and decide yourself what money to invest in your premises and when. Even small main-model dealerships are under severe pressure to do what they are told and to push certain models. We feel that independence allows us to make our own decisions, which is vitally important in the current climate.

“It also means you can be straight with people and tell them exactly what you think of a particular model, so customers end up with the best vehicle as opposed to the one you wanted to sell them.”

And, while Ballylanders may not be one of the best-known villages in Ireland, it is in a fantastic location for the purposes of Thomas Lane 4x4 Centre. “The location is ideal in that we are half and hour from Limerick and 45 minutes from Cork.

The road network is top class and we’re close to the motorway, with convenient access to Dublin as well.

“While we have access to a large market, primarily out customers are local farmers. Because we are selling predominantly to agricultural people, out business has not been affected by the recession. Indeed, if anything, business IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

A fine set of wheels courtesy of Tom Lane 4x4 Centre

The firm covers Munster and further afield

has increased over the past few years.”

It’s all about quality in this line of business and great care is taken to source high-quality 4x4s. “We’re very picky,” Mark confirms. “Our business model is to have the vehicle right first and foremost and then to provide a good back-up service on top of that. We spend a great deal of time picking out our vehicles and they have to be extremely well-maintained and well-presented, with a maximum of one or two previous owners.

“We source the vehicles nationwide. We try to bring the

27

Continued Success To Thomas Lane 4x4 Centre

Best Wishes To Thomas Lane 4x4 Centre, From Mondaniel, Rathcormac, Co. Cork Tel: +353 (0)25-36301 Fax: +353 (0)25-36444 Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9am-6.00pm Sat 9.00am - 5.00pm.

www.rathcormactyres.com

| Pre-nct checks | Mini-services carried out | Computerised wheel alignment | Computerised wheel balancing | Puncture repair | Alloy wheel straightening using specialised equipment for this purpose | Light focusing | Tyre vulcanising | 24 hour breakdown service provided. | Full range of tyres now in stock.

HELPS CURE CONGESTION Diesel Air Intake & EGR Valve Cleaner Best Wishes To Thomas Lane 4x4 Centre, From

Before & After one treatment

Munster 4x4 Spares

Diesel Particulate Filter Cleaner www.jmbreen.ie

Dismantling Most Makes & Models

Kanturk

T: 029 50410 F: 029 50422 M: 087 259 7932 Michael M: 086 250 4427 Johnny

Continued Best Wishes To Thomas Lane 4x4 Centre

087 858 2993 Lisnagry, Dublin Rd., Limerick Email:munster4x4@gmail.com Best Wishes To Thomas Lane 4x4 Centre, From

WILLIE WALSH CAR TRANSPORT Walsh Warehousing, Kennedy Quay, Cork.

Telephone

087 2479147 Don’t be left in the dark log on to

www.irishtrucker.com IRISH & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

28

Wishing Continued Success To Thomas Lane 4x4 Centre From

Morrissey McCrann & Co. Chartered Certified Accountants & Registered Auditors 1 O’Curry Street, Limerick Tel: 061 313321 Fax: 061 310865 Email: info@mmcco.ie www.morrisseymccrann.ie Best Wishes To Thomas Lane 4x4 Centre, From

Joe Sheehy

S R I A P E R H S A R C JOE’S Crash Repairs | Spray Painting Chassis Alignment | Machine Polish ALL INSURANCE WORK CATERED FOR Unit D1, Eastway Business Park, Ballysimon Rd., Limerick.

Contact Joe On 086

0651912

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Tom Lane 4x4 Centre offer all marques

jeeps out of cities or out of urban environments because they will have had an easier life than a rural one. A jeep that’s been carrying golf clubs will be more desirable than one that’s been carrying calves, so we buy as many used 4x4s as we can from Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick etc. but will source them from all over. We also take trade-ins but we will insist on seeing the trade-in before we give a price on it.

“We service everything we sell and Martin and Michael we will look after the vehicle for its Gleeson run the business lifetime. When we’re selling a jeep, we will stand over it with a parts and service warranty of three-to-twelve months, depending on age, mileage etc. We have a recently-updated modern workshop here and all work is done to the highest standards.”

All in all, Mark says he is “happy enough” with how the business is going: “Two-thousand-and-nine was a tough year because we got caught with some stock from 2008 but since then things have been okay. I wouldn’t say we are recession-proof – we are IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

feeling the pinch – but we have a good business model and we are twice as careful with what vehicles we buy. We make sure the vehicles are right, that the prices are right, and we keep our overheads down.”

As for the future, Mark Lane concludes: “We installed a new concrete yard and sales forecourt in 2006 and we timed that well. We have good facilities and a good product. Our goal now is to sustain the business and to look after our customers, old and new.”

CONTACT DETAILS Thomas Lane 4x4 Centre Ballylanders, County Limerick.

Phone: 062 46813 Tom Lane: 086 2575371 Mark Lane: 086 8304470 Email: sales@tomlane4x4.ie www.tomlane4x4.ie

29

Midland Steel lead the way

The supply of steel is a specialised industry and one of our own, Midland Steel Supplies Ltd, leads the way when it comes to delivering quality products to a large customer base.

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The pristine fleet at Midland Steel

30

s one of Ireland's largest reinforcement steel suppliers, Midland Steel's reputation goes beyond these shores and as their client list contains companies all across the U.K, Europe and UAE. This company offers exclusive steel supplies and steel fixing packages along with detailed and prefabrication. Founded in 1998, Midland Steel is a family run business with its headquarters situated in Mountmellick Co. Laois. The Woods' family IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

The Field themed DAF XF

set up the business 14 years ago and these days Tony Woods is the managing director of the firm. For this month's edition of Irish Trucker, we speak to Office Manager Majella Burke about the services that the company provides and the diversification into a broader range of markets that they have been forced to take due to the decline in the current economic market.

Not only does Midland steel All prefabrication supply a range of work is done in Mountmellick reinforced steel, but the company also has an extensive haulage fleet that is managed by their own team.

“Our haulage fleet consists of over 100 Trailers, more than 35 Trucks and five rigids available nationwide and UK to offer swift delivery of supplies 24 hours a day to suit your needs,” revealed Majella.

“We are renowned for producing cut, bent reinforcement and prefabrication in the shortest of time frames possible. We specialise in assisting structural engineers, concrete frame contractors and main contractors, providing steel fixing solutions to save time and money.”

Majella admits that the expertise acquired over the years leaves them Another job for Midland Steel ahead of their rivals. “We offer a structural IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

engineer solution and can take over the design, implement detailing and steel fixing of any project, signed off by our own in-house engineers.”

Due to the economic downturn in Ireland, Midland Steel's business is more focused on the U.K where they have now established a number of branches namely in London and Sunderland.

“We do all the prefabrication work in Mountmellick. We are currently doing work in London and Luton for BAM. Tony has come up with a design for cradles which allows us to transport

31

The Johnny Cash cab stands out

more materials than we use too, thus saving a lot of money. We can now transport 24 tonnes, as before this we could only move eight tonne at a time.

This is a system we are in the process of patenting.”

In the past, the company has been involved in many significant projects in Ireland including the Aviva Stadium, Suir Bridge, Waterford and the N7 bypass to just name a few.

So what makes Midland Steel the best in their field of expertise? “Firstly, we are expert steel suppliers and we offer an express collection and delivery service. We have an advanced fleet Woods Transport is a familiar sight on the roads of Ireland

32

tracking system so that customers can track their products, while there is an expert technical team on hand to assist the customer.”

Midland Steel is a Cares Approved supplier and they operate a full quality assurance system and are the only cut and bent supplier in Europe to offer a full traceability system bar mark by bar mark.

“We have the capability to track any reinforcement bar on site, from the element it is placed in i.e. Column or slab through the fabrication process in our factory, and back to the mill from which it originated to the original cast it had been made from.”

A state of the art GPS Tracking System has been installed on all vehicles and Majella admitted that this has made their job a lot easier.

“We have now installed the PDA system enabling us to dispatch deliveries through handheld PDA's and monitor progression of deliveries giving our customers the most up to date information available relating to their

delivery. We are also providing the customer with a service where they can access copies of POD's via a link on our website.

Through their well maintained fleet of trucks, the haulage end of the business continues to grow despite the setbacks that the haulage industry has suffered over the years.

“Two brand new trucks were added to the fleet towards the end of last year, while there is another one on order and it is going very well, despite the number of overheads involved.”

Midland Steel were forced to lay off some of the staff in Mountmellick due to the downturn in the economic climate, but have taken back those employees and re-trained them so that the are skilled in the art of prefabrication.

“Thankfully the lads got their jobs back and we are now keeping very busy, mainly due to the U.K market. We realise that Ireland is not going to be as good as it was, but we have to ensure that we continue working hard and maintain the level of service that we provide to our customers.”

CONTACT DETAILS Midland Steel Supplies Ltd Mountmellick Co. Laois Tel: +353 5786 79650 Email: info@midlandsteelsupplies.ie

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Midland Steel Supplies Ltd, From

RAYMOND McCARTHY

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Burglar Alarms • C.C.TV. • Domestic • Agricultural Commercial • Industrial & PAT Testing

JOHNSTOWN, CO. KILKENNY • Tel: 056 8831096 - 086 8169543 Email: raymccarthyelectrical@eircom.net Wishing Continued Success To Midland Steel Supplies Ltd, From

GENERAL HAULAGE - IRELAND, UK FLAT & CURTAINSIDER

The Cottage, Colt, Ballyroan, Co. Laois

Tel: 057 8731940 Fax: 057 8757484 Mobile: 086 8276602 Email: mcgowanhaulage@gmail.com

Best Wishes to Midland Steel Supplies Ltd, from

IAN DUNNE TYRE SERVICES

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Midland Steel Supplies Ltd From

MOUNTMELLICK - TULLAMORE

24 Hour Breakdown Service Supplier of Truck & Agri Tyres Kilcavan, Geashill, Co. Offaly

Telephone

086 8511633 Best Wishes & Continued Success To Midland Steel Supplies Ltd From

PATRICK M. FARRELL & CO. CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS & REGISTERED AUDITORS

Patrick Farrell F.C.A. 18 Fiary Street, Kilkenny Tel: 056 7756666 Fax: 056 7756444 Email: pmf@pmfaccountant.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Tailored Fleet & Business Insurance Since 1980

Tel: 049 4332944 Martin Insurance Ltd is regulated by The Central Bank of Ireland

Best Wishes To Midland Steel Supplies Ltd, From

Luttrell Oil Ltd OIL DISTRIBUTOR Kilbride, Portarlington

T: 057 8623142 F: 057 8623934 Mobiles 087 2626008 087 2889266 33

Up to 900 cars are available at any give time

The price is right For quality used cars or commercial vehicles – always at the right price look no further than Right Price Cars – an entity that places the emphasis on providing both quality and value in equal measures. To coincide with the opening of Right Price Cars’ third depot in Ballincollig, County Cork earlier this year, Irish Trucker met up with founder / managing director John Margey to take a closer look at this stellar operation.

34

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

A

s the name suggests, Right Price Cars offers motorists an unbelievable level of value – something that’s extremely important in the current economic climate.

Founded just over three years ago by Donegal man John Margey, who boasts a wealth of experience operating at the cutting edge of the motor trade here in Ireland, the company has gone from strength to strength during a short period of time, recently throwing open the doors to its third outlet – in Ballincollig, County Cork.

Right Price Cars offers the very best value in pre-owned vehicle sales.

Originally operating out of two prime locations in the capital - in Cloghran near Dublin Airport and Prussia Street, Dublin 7 - Right Price Cars stocks a large range of vehicles at unbeatable prices. The founder has many years' experience in delivering value cars to an army of satisfied customers, having previously fronted John Margey Cars, and the genesis of the new outlet in Munster will enable him to offer his stellar service to an even larger market.

Despite the recession currently wreaking havoc with the Irish economy - and with the motor trade in particular - Right Price Cars is doing well for itself through a strategy of guaranteeing exceptional value at all times.

Reflecting on the early days of the business, John notes: “I set up in September, 2008, at the height of the recession. I was wholesaling cars before that but the downturn meant we weren’t getting The sales team at the Prussio Street branch: Michael Deasy, Ricky Flanagan, Ramie Dullard and Chris Boland

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

money in quickly enough. I was owed a small fortune and it was obvious that I was never going to get this money, so I had to make a decision about where the future of the business was going.

“Obviously, with the credit crunch, wholesaling was no longer a viable option, so I decided that the best way forward was to deal directly with the public, cutting out the middle man and retailing the cars ourselves. The business has really taken off and we have been expanding consistently, with two outlets in Dublin and the third one just opened down in Cork.”

Right Price Cars carries anywhere between 800 to 900 cars at any given time, offering customers a superb selection of vehicles to choose from, all of which are available at genuinely affordable prices. While John still deals with wholesalers from time to time, he points out that retailing now represents the core of the business.

So, where does he source the vehicles from? “We purchase them all in Ireland, mostly from car rental companies, car leasing companies, finance companies and main agent trade-ins from dealerships all over Ireland. We sell all makes and models but we’ll only stock quality cars. At the moment, we have a wide choice of vehicles ranging from 12reg down to 05s. As well as retailing, we also lease some cars from the fleet to rental companies ourselves.”

John has embraced modern webbased marketing / advertising technology and the vast majority of trade is internet based. The cars can be viewed on Right Price Cars’ official website – www.rightpricecars.ie – but are also sold extensively through CarZone.ie and other similar sites. “It’s all internet-based and we sell everything at a price point,” John continues. “We set standards and we give excellent value for money. We check the prices and market value of all our vehicles twice a week and amend them accordingly to make sure we are offering prospective customers excellent value for money. We appreciate that money is tight and we are prepared to go the extra mile to ensure that our products are not overpriced.”

As for commercial vehicles, John says demand is so strong that he would have no problem selling as many LGVs as he can get his hands on … if he could get them, that is! “There is a real scarcity of good, second-hand commercials. We are buying up anything that becomes available,

35

Right Price Cars has been offering excellent deals for the past three years

especially in 09s-11s, but there aren’t an awful lot of them. We do have some in stock but they sell quickly and it’s becoming harder and harder to source them.

“There is definitely a market there for them if we can source them. The lack of finance available to operators has dried the market up. Since ’08, ’09, finance

companies haven’t been financing any new vans, so there’s a real shortage of second-hands at the moment. I know I could sell them, so I may consider importing them from the UK in the future.”

Right Price Cars is totally selffinanced with no debts, no huge loans and no unnecessary overheads. In

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Right Price Cars From

FINGLAS AUTO PARTS

many ways, it is the perfect business model. John runs the business in a hands-on fashion, overseeing every facet of the operation from setting the prices to hiring staff. At present, between the three outlets in Dublin and Cork, he employs a team of 28. And there’s a real possibility of further expansion in the not-too-distant future.

Best Wishes To Right Price Cars From

KILLEEN AUTO BODY Crash Repair Specialists

Approved body shop Unit B1C, Bluebell Ind Est., Bluebell, Dubin 12 Telephone: 01 4242446/ 087 6767769 www.killeenautobody.ie

OILS & FILTERS BRAKES & CLUTCHES NUMBER PLATES WIPERS & BATTERIES BODY PANELS & ALLOYS OPEN 6 DAYS INCLUDING LUNCH Contact Us On

01 8140080/8140081/8140084 36

Best wishes to all at Right Price Cars, from

Car Repairs

PAINTLESS DENT REMOVAL PAINTWORK RESTORATION No. 3 Aughnadreena Drive, Lavey, Co. Cavan. Tel: 086-1589762 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Continued Best Wishes To Right Price Cars, From

SPECIALISING IN ALL TYPES OF AUTOBODY REPAIR & SPRAY PAINTING ✹ LOW BAKE OVEN ✹ CLUTCH REPLACEMENTS OPENING HOURS:MONDAY TO FRIDAY 8AM TO 5PM

✹ BODY JIG ✹ TIMING BELTS FITTED

SERVICING OF ALL MAKES & MODELS CARRIED OUT 30 Prussia Street, Dublin 7 •

Tel: 01 8682277

Best Wishes To Right Price Cars From

Ray McKenna Delvin Rd., Gormanston, Co. Meath Email: rayxmckenna@eircom.net

Tel: 086 3873377 Specialist In

Interior Velour/ Seat Repair eg Cigarette Burns, Fading, Rips etc, Leather Repair, Cracking/Holes/Wearing & Recolouring, Carpet & Door Repair, Dash Repair ie Scratches or Filling Phone Kit Holes

Best Wishes To Right Price Cars, From

RATHGAR MOTOR FACTORS LTD 66-67 Rathgar Avenue, Rathgar, Dublin 6 Tel: 01 4909 550 “The Right Parts at the Right Price” Best Wishes To Right Price Cars, From

Best Wishes To Right Price Cars from

Multi Part Automotive Ltd.

Rockfield, Roscommon

28 Jones Road, (Opp. Croke Park) Drumcondra, Dublin 3 Tel: 01 855 0002 Fax: 01 855 0141 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Tel: 090 6662543. Mobile: 086 8365225 Fax: 090 6662950 E: mcnamaralogistics@eircom.net 37

onto the market. The market is going to dry up and I can see demand outweighing supply. A lot of vehicles will be imported from the UK. Right Price Cars just wants to stabilise over the next couple of years. This industry is not out of the woods yet.

“Our main goal going forward would be to eventually operate out of one large outlet in Dublin but, for the time being, we’re more than happy with the three premises we’re running and with the service we are providing.”

A legion of loyal customers is happy too.

Right Price Cars stocks a large number of vehicles at unbeatable prices

Each of the premises boasts its own fully-kitted-out workshop and technicians, where all vehicles are fully tested and serviced prior to going on the market. Every vehicle leaves the showroom in top-class condition and those which aren’t still covered by a

manufacturer’s warranty will be given a full three-month warranty by RPC. All this at the best price one can find anywhere in Ireland!

Looking to the future, John concludes: “This year and next year, I would expect that very few 09s-13s will come

CONTACT DETAILS Right Price Cars Airport: Tel: 01 816 3661 Prussia Street: Tel: 01 838 9388 Fax: 01 838 9135 Email: info@rightpricecars.ie www.rightpricecars.ie

SDP MOTORS

Best Wishes To Right Price Cars

Providing Quality & Service For Over 35 Years LOCATED IN THE HEART OF DUBLIN CITY

All the cars sold by Right Price Cars are in excellent condition

21 Arbour Place, Dublin 7.

T: 01 6778155 F: 01 6778694

• Pre NCT Specialists • All Makes & Models Serviced Including Light Commercial Vehicles • Recovery Service Can Be Arranged Email: sdpmotors@hotmail.com www.sdpmotors.com

There are also commercial vehicles carried in the fleet

38

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Roadmarking at its best The importance of road markings and cat eyes has been highlighted time and time again, due to the safety aspect that they provide for motorists.

Poor visibility on roads can be sometimes allayed by the road markings and offers vehicle drivers the opportunity to stay within their designated routes.

H

ealth and Safety has never been more to the forefront than in today's society and every aspect of road safety is being addressed and road markings are no different.

Motorways around the world are subject to a broad range of speed limits. Recent experiments with variable speed limits based on automatic measurements of traffic density have delivered both improvements in traffic flow and reduced collision rates, based on principles of turbulent flow analysis.

A number of companies specialise in laying of road markings

and cats eyes, but not many possess the experience of Belfast based Shannon Roadmarkings.

For this month's edition of Irish Trucker, we profile this well known company and speak to manager director Sean Shannon about the success of the business over the years.

Established in 1987, Shannon Road Markings offer an experienced and professional road marking service both north and south of the border. The company has been involved with road marking and laying of cats eyes for both government departments and the private sector for over 25 years.

Shannon Road Markings provide a number of services

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Health and Safety is paramount

“We are based in Northern Ireland, mainly in the Belfast area, but we operate down south as well and have been involved in a number of projects for the Irish government and the private sector also. We are a well-established family company and pride ourselves on our many years of experience, efficiency and competence,” admitted Sean.

“Whether you require some line marking for a car park or cats eyes for a dark road, we have the skills and knowledge you require. We have worked for a wide variety of customers including government and public service work. We also provide a road sign hire enabling you to gain all of the road signs you may need whether it be for a special event or just

too direct traffic.”

Sean admits that attention to detail is one of their greatest attributes and this has helped them win many large tenders.

“We take pride in all of the work we undertake ensuring that our road markings are completed to the highest of standards whilst following any specific requirements.”

Shannon road Markings are know for their friendly and reliable service as well as their quality workmanship. Due to the nature of their work, they have flexible work hours to cater for the client's needs and they are will to carry out jobs throughout the 32 counties.

“Over the years, we have continued to improve on the

A selection of the company’s vehicle

S. Rankin & Co Insurance Brokers 21-23 Bachelors Walk, Lisburn BT28 1XJ

Continued best wishes to all at Shannon Road Markings 40

Telephone: 028 92 676 235 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

kestrel

Highly trained staff operate all machinery

service that we provide, looking at the way we can do things better, while ensuring that the customer is always satisfied with the work that we do.

“We are members of the Road Safety Marking Association and have the Safe T certification. Health and Safety is a key issue in road marking we acknowledge the fact that they can save lives, so it is up to us to ensure that each project is carried out to the highest standard.”

“We are committed to ensuring that our customers are completely satisfied with our work and get the road markings that they specifically require.

“Our attention to detail and excellent customer service has gained us a fantastic reputation over the years. You can trust us to complete your road markings professionally and accurately.”

Not only does the company specialise in road markings and cat eyes, but they also provide sign hire, car park marking, playground marking, sports court markings, airport markings and anti skid surfacing.

“Organisations we provide road markings for include schools, airports, industry work, shopping centres, supermarkets, governments and other private work. We have been working with the Northern Ireland government for many years now, while we have also carried out work for the Irish government and one of the most recent contracts was on the N11.”

This well established family firm with a reputation for high quality work in the public and private sectors, Shannon Road Markings is determined to continue providing the same level of service that its customers have become accustomed too down through the years.

“Our experienced and professional staff can provide advice on design, layout and road marking standards for any job. So why not contact us and we can give the customer a free estimate.”

Sean admits that his highly trained employees have played a huge part in the success of the business. “We're fortunate in that we have a loyal staff, many of who are with us for years. Everyone is highly trained and are always on hand to deal with any queries that a customer might have.”

CONTACT DETAILS: 4 Garnock Brooke Drive Belfast, Antrim BT11 9NP Phone: 02890 629937 Fax: 02890 629233 Email: info@shannonroadmarkings.com Web: www.shannonroadmarkings.com

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

THERMOPLASTICS LTD. Are pleased to be associated With

SHANNON ROAD MARKINGS Manufacturers of Screed, Spray and Ribline road marking materials.

Suppliers of Glass Beads.

Principle supplier of high quality road marking materials to Shannon Road Markings 89 Drumagarner Rd., Kilrea, Co. Derry N. Ireland BT51 5TE Tel: (028) 2954 0906 • Fax: (028) 2954 1140 Email: sales@kestrelplastics.com

248 Upper Newtownards Road Belfast BT4 3EU Tel: 0044 28 90 474 100 Fax: 0044 28 90 474 111 Email: enquiries@falconerstewart.co.uk

CONTINUED SUCCESS TO ALL AT SHANNON ROAD MARKINGS

Best Wishes To Shannon Road Markings Sales & Service Commercial Vehicle Spraying Sand Blasting

42a Greenhill Road, Ligoniel, Belfast BT14 8SH T: 028 90825488 028 90825555 F: 028 90825657

Brian 07768 062 043 Gary 07793 979 878

www.briangrantcommercials.co.uk 41