Irish Trucker & Light commercials magazine by Lynn Group Media

McEveney's have 27 years experience in the automotive business

Recovery the right way Located close to Castlebar, McEveney’s 24 Hour Recovery is in a league of its own when it comes to providing a high-quality, dedicated, responsible and safe breakdown/recovery service. Irish Trucker caught up with company founder Patrick McEveney to get an insight into this excellent operation.

atrick McEveney could be described as a wise old head. He knows his way around vehicles and he has put all his years of expertise to good use by establishing and fronting McEveney’s 24 Hour Recovery – one of Connacht’s premier breakdown / recovery operators. He has been in the garage business for 27 years and started up the recovery firm in 1999. His older brother Tommy is also involved in the garage end of the business but Patrick is very much the main man and the successful recovery operation is the fruit of his vision and labour. Reflecting on the genesis of the recovery business, the founder reveals: “Tommy was a mechanic before me and I went in as a panel beater and worked in body shops. Between the two of us, we were able

to do mechanical and body repairs and we worked together in various local garages. We started in the Smith Group, which was owned by Waterford Crystal and we also worked in a Toyota dealership before I set up my own garage.” Based at Tullycommons, Snugboro, Castlebar, County Mayo, McEveney 24 Hour Recovery evolved out of this garage business twelve years ago. “We still have the garage but the breakdown and recovery is now the core of the business,” says Patrick. “We can bring vehicles back to the garage if required but this isn’t usually necessary. We carry the latest diagnostic equipment in our breakdown vehicles and many of the problems can be fixed at the roadside.” No vehicle is two big or two small for McEveney’s. Deploying a state-of-the-

art, customised Mercedes recovery truck, Patrick can recover anything up to 21-foot, three-and-a-half tonnes; while he also operated two Ford Transits with beavertails and two recovery jeeps, which are fully fitted out to work in underground car-parks etc. The recovery vehicles are kitted out with miscellaneous items such as bulbs, fuses, fuel etc. – anything that might get a vehicle up and running as quickly as possible, provided the problem isn’t severe. “We can access anything, anywhere,” the company founder continues. “If there’s heavy lifting to be done, we have access to a heavy lifting vehicle that can handle up to 20 tonne. We can get literally anybody back on the road.” The real beauty of McEveney’s 24 Hour Recovery is that everything is done is such a straightforward, IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

McEveney’s 24 hour Recovery has built up a stellar reputation

uncomplicated manner, with total transparency and no unnecessary fuss. The immediate catchment area includes Castlebar, Westport, Newport, Ballinrobe, Charlestown, Achill, Swinford, Louisburgh and everywhere in between. “Most of our work is within that area but we cover all of Connacht and will work nationwide when required. If there’s a car to be brought back to Dublin, Wexford or Kerry, we’ll get it there.” There is no competitive edge about Patrick. He just gets on with providing a quality service, maintaining good relations with all the other recovery agents, which means he can easily put customers in contact with other operators in other areas. Thus, by being part of a network, McEveney’s can offer clients an extremely

convenient and affordable service. Of course, being on call 24 hours a day comes at a cost, as Patrick notes: “It’s hard on the family life. I’ve a wife and two children – who are 18 and 13 – and I don’t see as much of them as I’d like. The recovery does take over your social life too. You’re always on the phone – you can’t switch it off. It’s a huge commitment. You have to be contactable 24 hours a day, from Saturday through to Friday, no exceptions. If you need time off, then you have to arrange cover. Most of the time, I take all the calls and do all the organising myself, but when there is a family occasion, I’ll bring in one of the lads.” The long hours is a definite downside but Patrick is fortunate in that he genuinely loves what he does. This

passion translates into an enthusiastic and high-quality service. “I love this work and so do all the lads who work alongside me,” he admits. “Every job is different and every day is different. I could write a book on some of the experiences I’ve had. You wouldn’t believe the predicaments some people unfortunately end up in. I have to say, I really do get a great kick out of the job. When you safely remove a vehicle from a dangerous situation without causing any further damage to it, you get great job satisfaction from your efforts. This is the kind of work you learn about as you go along. It takes years of experience before you know what you’re doing. You can’t read it in a manual. You have to get out there and learn the ropes through dealing with real people in real situations.

On call 24/7

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Breakdown and recovery is the core of the business

Having said that, I would recommend people to do as many courses as possible because you can pick up a lot of little tips and knacks that maybe other operators have discovered. “We attend a lot of recovery shows and truck shows and it’s unreal the knowledge you will pick up from talking to other recovery agents. We all share our knowledge and those little tips can make a big difference to how well we serve the public.”

How would Patrick go about a typical job? “If it’s a road traffic accident, you will straight away start to think in your head: How is the vehicle positioned? What way is the traffic flowing? How many people are there? Where are the rubber-neckers positioned? What can you do to make the scene safe? How will you get the road cleared ASAP? “You need a plan to get the vehicle off the road and into a wide area as quickly and safely as possible. You

McEveney’s can solve many problems roadside

McEveney’s can recovery vehciles up to three-and-a-half tonnes

have to be conscious of and considerate towards the driver and passengers from the vehicle. They’ll be very concerned about what’s going to be happening to their car and they will probably want to observe, so we need to bring reflective gear for them and get them to a safe vantage point if they insist on looking on. We get everybody to stand as far away from the work area as possible. It’s vital to secure the working environment but you have to do it in a nice, friendly manner. “I’ll pack my recovery vehicle safely; ask the customer what’s happening; listen to every word they say … once you’ve listened and taken everything on board, then you are in full control of the situation.” McEveney’s 24 Hour Recovery is busy most days and Patrick remains optimistic about the future: “You have to be positive,” he concludes. “Obviously, there’s a downturn and the figures are not adding up the way they used to but I like to think that if everybody keeps a positive attitude and we hang in there, then everything will be okay. “I’ve put another truck on the road. Some people might think it’s a bad time for investing money but you’re better off working with good, safe, clean, reliable equipment. You have to stick with it. We got the RAC Supplier of the Year in 2009 and 2010 and also won an award with Mapfre Assistencia. “We work for a lot of clubs and all the garages in the surrounding area and we have set – and maintain – the very highest of standards. We have good relationships with all our clients and we pride ourselves on working with them as a partner.” IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Pat McEveney From

Tommy Robinson Ltd Specialising In

Spraying Equipment • Truck Paints & Finishing Equipment

Car Sales • Motor Factors • Paint Specialists Spencer Street, Castlebar, Co. Mayo

T: 094 90 21355 F: 094 90 24533 Best Wishes & Continued Success To Pat McEveney From

Tim Hastings Ltd Volkswagen • Mercedes- Benz SALES • SERVICE • PARTS

www.timhastings.com Castlebar Road, Westport, Co. Mayo Tel: 098 25133 Fax: 098 25255 Email: sales@timhastings.com Best Wishes To Pat McEveney Wishing Continued Success To Pat McEveney From

www.duffycars.ie

Cathal Duffy Ltd. Spencer Park, Castlebar, Co. Mayo T: 094 90 21288 F: 094 90 23693 E: info@duffycars.ie

FREEPHONE

1800 267742 “Your Low Cost Fuel Suppliers”

Best Wishes To Pat McEveney From

James Foy Auto Service 24 HOUR RECOVERY SERVICE Specialist In Truck & Coach Recovery “From A Moped To A Artic We’ll Recover it” Dromore West, Sligo Tel:+353.9647052 Mobile: +353.872541243

www.recoverysligo.com

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Continued Best Wishes To Pat McEveney 45

The aggregate score Celebrating 20 years in business this year, Loughdoo Aggregates in County Tyrone continues to go from strength to strength. Irish Trucker popped into the Cookstown depot for a quick word with company founder Dessie Loughran.

Loughdoo Aggregates are renowned for their quality products

oughdoo Aggregates is one of Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier suppliers of sand, gravel and decorative stone. At present, the company provides gainful employment to a crew of 25, operating an impressive fleet of 18 vehicles. They have certainly come a long way in 20 years! Loughdoo Aggregates started trading in 1991, with just three part-time staff. From these humble beginnings, the company has continually expanded and they are now rightly recognised as veritable market leaders in their chosen area of expertise. They supply sand, gravel and decorative stone nationwide and their quarry in Cookstown, County Tyrone is highly renowned for its hard-wearing stone. Loughdooâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sand is much sought after in the precast concrete industry, wherein the company has built up a reputation for supplying excellent products backed up by a fast and efficient client service. As the business gradually expanded in direct response to growing demand for their products and services, more land for quarrying was acquired and a new quarry was opened in 2005. A new screening system and CDE treatment plant were also installed. In 2006, Loughdoo Aggregates ventured into the concrete business and later that year they began making blocks. After a slow start, they experienced an upturn in trade and it became increasingly obvious that by sticking to their core principles of supplying a quality product at a realistic price the company would continue to thrive. In 2007, they received the Quality Scheme for Ready Mixed Concrete award in due recognition of their quality concrete. Following the acquisition of more land for quarrying in 2008, the company is in a stronger position than ever and the directors are looking forward to supplying aggregates and concrete to their loyal customers for many years to come. In addition to the construction industry, Loughdoo Aggregates also supply golf courses and playing fields throughout Ireland. To this end, they have supplied aggregates for drainage to wellknown grounds such as Dungannon Golf Club, Bundoran Golf Club, Sligo Racecourse and the new Lough Erne Golf Club IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Their concrete is quality approved

The company maintains its fleet to a high standard

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

(designed by Nick Faldo). They have also supplied many horse arenas throughout Ireland with different grades of sand. The full range of products available includes ready mixed concrete, screed blocks and bricks, washed sand and gravel supplies, decorative stone and coloured pebbles for driveways and patios as well as all grades of sand for the sports industry. Next-day delivery is provided island-wide.

Loughdoo Aggregates is very much a family business. Dessie Loughran set the company up 20 years ago in conjunction with his wife Marion and the pair have since passed the reins on to their son Leon, who now acts as MD. Dessie gives a brief outline of the day-to-day activities: “We specialise in sand and gravel, decorative stone, readymix concrete, blocks and bricks and we also do a fair bit of haulage. We mainly cover a

catchment area from Belfast to Enniskillen but a lot of the decorative stone – which is used in gardens, patios etc. – goes south.” Business remains quite steady, though Dessie concedes that – like everyone else – Loughdoo Aggregates have felt the effect of the worldwide economic downturn: “We’re not just as busy as we used to be but, to be honest, we didn’t follow the builders / developers that much anyway, so we

The company maintains its fleet to a high standard

Best Wishes To Loughdoo Aggregates, From

OMAGH REWINDS Sales & Repairs Motors, Generators, Pumps, Compressors, Welders, Power Tools, Belts and Bearing, Electrical Switchgear, Mechanical Seals Engineering, Woodworking, CNC Machinery Repairs , 24 Hour Call On Quarry, Concrete, Block Making Plants, Electrical Installation, Inspection & Testing 2a Campsie Ave, Omagh, Co. Tyrone

Telephone: (028) 82241164

INSURANCE BROKERS

Continued Best Wishes To Loughdoo Aggregates

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Loughdoo Aggregates From

ROCKTEK

QUARRY AND RECYCLING ENGINEERING Plant Installations On & Off Site Rebuilds

Contact 00353 87 9660066 Email: info@rocktek.ie 48

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Loughdoo Aggregates From

HILLTOP FUELS LTD. 11 Lucy Street, Pomeroy, Dungannon, Co. Tyrone BT70 2QS Tel: (028) 8775 9578/8381 Fax: (028) 87759575 Email: kquinn@quinncontracts.com

E.K

•

• . I .) L T

GERALD LYTTLE & SONS

Commercial Repairs & Tachograph Centre

219 Drum Rd., Cookstown BT80 9HR

Tel: 028 867 51261 Fax: 028 867 51882

E: alastairlyttle@btconnect.com

Best Wishes To Loughdoo Aggregates, From

.S. TYR

Wishing Continued Success To Loughdoo Aggregates From

Best Wishes To Loughdoo Aggregates, From

145 Moneymore Road, Cookstown Co. Tyrone BT80 9UU Tel:

028 867 63396 028 867 63437 Fax: 028 867 64095

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Loughdoo Aggregates From

Teka Teka (Machinery) Ltd.

Fonthill Business Park, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 Tel: (01) 623 8188 • Fax: (01) 623 8189 Email: info@teka-irl.com

Best Wishes To Loughdoo Aggregates

Continued Best Wishes To Loughdoo Aggregates From

Services Available Audit • Accounts • Tax • VAT Book-keeping • Payroll •Management Accounts 2nd Floor, The Cornmill, Lineside, Coalisland, BT71 4LP

T: 028 8774 1234 E: office@corrca.com www.corrca.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

www.irishtrucker.com IRISH & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

haven’t been affected too badly. We mainly deal with farmers and one-off private builders.” The quarry is located in Tulnacross, approximately ten miles from Cookstown and 18 miles from Omagh. A constant hive of activity, it generates employment for 25 people, with the company’s 18-strong fleet comprising

a mixture of tippers, mixers and offloaders. “All the trucks are Scania, Volvo or DAF,” says Dessie. “We have our own fitter to look after the small jobs and we give a lot of work to a local garage as well. The fleet is well looked after and, thankfully, the vast majority of them are out on the road every day.”

MJM Training FAS CSCS REG No: 901 794 for Track Diggers & Rubber Ducks (360 & 180 Bx) Tractor Dozer

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Locations: Monaghan Dundalk Sligo Donegal Ballygawley Courses can be completed on customer sites in NI

MJM Training congratulate Loughdoo Aggregates on Reaching this milestone

To what does Dessie attribute the success of the business over the years? “Good service. That’s the main thing. We’ve also got a high-quality product and provide excellent service. A lot of our customers come back and do business with us again, which is testament to the quality of both our product and our service. Most of our employees are here six or seven years – and some of them have been here for 20 – so these lads know what they’re doing. “We also have a new venture. On April 4th we took over a concrete operation in Ballymena.” One gets the distinct impression that Loughdoo Aggregates is here for the long haul. Loughdoo Aggregates Loughdoo Rd, Tulnacross, Cookstown, County Tyrone BT80 9PL Tel: 028 86751085 Email: info@loughdooaggregates.co.uk www.loughdooaggregates.co.uk IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Back to new As funding is tight within the haulage industry, the days of going out and splashing on brand new trucks has certainly dwindled considerably.

ore and more hauliers are ensuring that their trucks and trailers are kept in pristine condition to ensure longevity. To achieve these goals, many are turning to refurbishment work as well as general maintenance and repairs. To this end, they should look no further than NG Engineering Ltd. Based in Ballynure, Co Antrim, the company offers a wide range of services including comprehensive accident repairs and paintwork of any trailer or vehicle. Signwriting/Relivery programs, chassis repairs, PSV checks and inspections (A-inspections carried out while driver waits) are further services provided by this long established business. NG Engineering Ltd is owned by Derek Graham and Michelle

McAlister and the former speaks to Irish Trucker about the success of the business and what direction he hopes they are heading. Firstly the company's location is key to their success as they are situated just 12 miles from both Larne and Belfast Docks where many hauliers operate from. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are a commercial vehicle repairs business that offers hauliers a top quality service in the repair, maintenance and refurbishment of both their trucks and trailers,â&#x20AC;? said Derek. The facilities at the plant in Ballynure are second to none as it is a purpose built premise that has all the modern technology in order to complete their task to the highest level. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With seven fully equipped repair bays, one paint bay and a

Another job to be repaired

Michelle McAlister and Derek Graham of NG Engineering

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

There are seven repair bays and a paint bay

separate shot blasting unit, we are capable of undertaking fleet refurbishments or one-off jobs as required. “There is no need to book in minor repairs though a courtesy call would be welcome. This service is provided for all our customers - new and old.” NG Engineering Ltd has built up a large customer base over the years and Derek revealed that their aim is to ensure customer satisfaction through a high level of service. “At NG Engineering, we have gained a reputation for high quality repairs and refinishing work. What our customers frequently comment on is the service that our team provides from first contact to the completion of any project.” “We pride ourselves in being able to offer comprehensive repair and refurbishment services on all makes and specifications of commercial vehicles and trailers.” Trailer maintenance and refurbishment is a big part of their business and Derek revealed that they have developed working relationships with some of Europe's leading trailer manufacturers. “As specialists in refrigerated trailer repairs we are Service Partners for Schmitz Cargobull, Krone and Chereau. With fully qualified staff we are certified to carry out any accident damage repairs which still retain the manufactures warranty. Fully stocked stores mean that we can offer a quick turn around on any size of repair. “We have carried out many general engineering contracts over the years we offer aluminium; stainless steel and mild steel welding so are able to tackle any type of job big or small.” A dedicated paint booth and shot blasting area allows Derek and his team to perform refinishing work to

the highest standard whether it be a small job such as a crash bar right up to a 45ft trailer, all of which can be done in either one-pack or two pack paint systems. “We can also provide a complete

livery liaison service including supply and fitting decals to improve or compliment a company's identity.” Derek admits that like all businesses the last few years have been tough especially in an industry that involves

Refurbishment is a major market

NG Engineering offer refurbishment, maintenance and repair

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

haulage as it has been hit harder than most. “It certainly has been a tough couple of years, there is no question about it, but many hauliers are turning to placing more of an emphasis on maintenance and refurbishment work and we are reaping the benefits of that. “As we have so many years experience behind us, we feel that we can provide a top quality service and all our staff are highly trained so they can deal with any enquiry that a customer may have.” Another service provided by the company is training courses in a variety of areas connected to the haulage industry. NG Engineering Ltd

All repairs - big and small are catered for

is determined to continue providing the level of service that it has been so for the past three decades and Derek admits that they are always looking at ways of improving the business. “We have set our own standards and it is up to us to maintain them and try to improve on them. It has taken a while to get back to normal, but we do feel we are heading in the right direction and our aim is maintain our customer base and hopefully expand on that over the next few years.”

Best Wishes To NG Engineering From

NG Engineering are located 12 miles from Larne and Belfast Docks

Best Wishes To NG Engineering From

Specialists In All Freight, Storage & Groupage Services, Collection & Distribution Throughout The UK & Ireland. McMullan International Logistics Ltd 11 Cloughs Road, Cushendall, Co. Antrim BT44 OSP Telephone: 075 2590 9519 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Delighted to be associated with NG Engineering and wish them every success

Century House, Enterprise Crescent, Ballinderry Road, Lisburn BT28 2BP Tel: 028 9260 7355 • Fax: 028 9260 1656 Email: accounts@hannathompson.com www.hannathompson.com 53

Nixon Haulage Ltd. is based in Kilbrittain, Co. Cork

Looking to ride it out 54

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

hese are tough times for the haulage industry in Ireland. With money for business scarce and diesel prices at an all time high, not too many would swap places with David Nixon at present, however, the Cork native continues to keep his now 10-year-old company ticking over and as competitive as ever. Based in Kilbrittain, which is situated midway between Kinsale and Clonakilty, in county Cork, Nixon Haulage Ltd has been providing an efficient haulage service throughout the Munster region for the past ten years and looks set to motor on into the next decade as they continue to acquire new business down south. David Nixon has been the ultimate driving-force behind his company’s success and has been working as hard ever by putting in the long hours and making sure his customers can stilly rely on a dependable service. “We’re based here in Kilbrittain, Co Cork and we’d have a lot of our customers that would be from this locality,” explained David. “We’re established about ten years now and we employ two people here. My position is Managing Director and we have another parttime fella in here as well.” Over the past ten years, David and co have been leading the way in the haulage game down south, transporting just about anything for anyone at attractive costs allied with a speedy delivery. This is one of the reasons why Nixon Haulage Ltd is now first choice for many companies down south looking to do business. “We do everything from containers, boats, generators and long loads. We also do crane hire here as well,” he explained. “I suppose the business has just grown from strength to strength from when we started up first and we’re after generating extra business now and have bigger cranes than when we first started out.” Like many Irish businesses, things were quite rosy for Nixon Haulage Ltd up until the downturn, when money frequently became scarce, but the company has managed to hold its own in recent years. At the moment, the rising cost of diesel is the primary issue for David and companies like his, but he’s pleased to report that there has at least been some good news for Nixon Haulage Ltd in recent times. “Business is hard,” he admitted. “Diesel prices are the biggest problem at the minute. Between that and having proper insurance businesses are finding it very tough. “We’ve acquired new business at the start of January with a company in Kildare which do pre-

Celebrating a decade in business this year, Nixon Haulage Ltd in Kilbrittain, Co Cork continues to be one of the leading haulage outfits in the Munster region. Irish Trucker spoke to the company’s founder, David Nixon, about the services they provide and how they’ve been coping with the tough times. IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

The company’s extensive fleet gives nationwide coverage

fabricated buildings, so we’re glad to have gotten that because you have to take anything you can get.” David is spot on with that statement. New business is a rarity for many companies today and some have been fortunate enough to cling on to the customers which they’ve had since the very start. To this day, Nixon Haulage Ltd still has many of the customers which it started out with ten years ago. “Some of our customers that would have been with us down through the

years would be Space Cab, Maccom Munster and BAM Buildings. They’ve stayed with us because they know that we provide a reliable service and that they can depend on us,” explained David. Nixon Haulage’s impressive fleet consists of a Space Cab DAF, which has a 60-foot reach, along with a top of the range Scania with a 50 foot reach. The company’s extensive fleet helps them to cover nationwide when required, however, David admits that a lot of Nixon Haulage’s work is based down in the south of the country. “We cover mainly in and around parts of Munster because we try and keep our business as close to home as we can,” the Managing Director admitted.

“We’ve been to England as well in the past, from where we moved a swimming pool to and from. We also brought a bull-dozer back to Cork from there about four or five years ago, so I suppose you could say there’s no work that we won’t do.” A spot on business attitude is something which has helped David and his company get to where they are today and you can be sure that David Nixon Haulage will continue to weather the storm for the coming months and ready themselves for the inevitable turn around. For now though, things are still running quite smoothly at David Nixon Haulage and the man himself is confident that things can keep going that way: “These are hard times, but you just have to keep your head above water and ride it out.” Hear, hear.

Wishing Nixon Haulage, Continued Success In The Future From

Ballinphellic Engineering Co. Ltd. Manufacturers and suppliers of a wide range of lifting and handling equipment, including lifting gear, Overhead Travelling Cranes, Gantries, and other fabricated lifting assemblies. Nixon Haulage Ltd. is celebrating 10 years in business

Ballinphellic,Upton, Co. Cork Tel +353 (021) 4885311 • Fax 4885023 www.ballinphellic.ie IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Maurice O’Carroll Haulage Ballybrown, Clarina, Co. Limerick T: 087 9100454 E: ocarrollhaulage@eircom.net

Best Wishes To Nixon Haulage

PATRICK J. O’DRISCOLL & CO. CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS 20 Oliver Plunkett Street, Bandon, Co. Cork Phone: 023-8843055

BEST WISHES & CONTINUED SUCCESS TO ALL AT NIXON HAULAGE Continued Best Wishes To Nixon Haulage From

Tim Duggan Insurance For All Your Insurance Needs 17 O’Curry Street, Limerick T: (061) 404600 E: info@tdinsurances.ie Tim Duggan Insurances is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

BEST WISHES TO NIXON HAULAGE, FROM

JOHN CALNAN CAR & COMMERCIALS SALES & SERVICE

Dunmanway, Co. Cork. Tel: 023-8845869 Fax: 023-8845870. Mobile: 087-2468576 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

& Tulligmore, Ballinhassig, Co Cork

Phone: 00353 21 4979702 Email; gerardkirby@eircom.net

IRELAND/ UK ON A DAILY BASIS, WITH FLAT TRAILERS, CURTAINSIDERS, STEPFRAME LOWLOADER

CONTINUED BEST WISHES TO ALL AT NIXON HAULAGE 57

An impressive view of the showroom and forecourt

Midway source the best The second hand trade has seen an upturn in fortunes over the last year or so and customers are know more conscious of spending their money on quality used vehicles.

Pat Holmes is a dedicated member of staff

he people of the north east need not fear as they do not have far to go in order to find quality used vehicles at competitive prices as Midway Light Commercials strive to deliver such a product. In the seven years that this Sligo based company has been established, the customer base has expanded on an annual basis and their reputation for sourcing cars, jeeps and light commercials at reasonable prices now exceeds them. For this month's edition of Irish Trucker, we profile Midway Light Commercials and speak to owner John Maughan from his premises at IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Collooney Business Park about the service he provides to his loyal customers. The founder is in the motor trade for many years and has supplied customers across Connacht with hundreds of vehicles down through the years. With the customers' help and support, they would be delighted to keep serving the nation and in return, they will offer you excellent value and customer service. Midway Light Commercials came from humble beginnings and, through focus, diligence and hard work; it has grown from strength to strength. The premises are reassuringly secure and they have a very large customer data base with a lot of repeat customers. There is a well established reputation and are very well regarded within the motor industry. They are fully focused on customer satisfaction and providing excellent value and business has been going very well over the last year or so. Midway Light Commercials stock up to 60-70 used units at any given time. There is also a wide range of Jeeps, 4X4's, Vans, Commercials in stock for your perusal. What has become most noticeable in recent years is how the service department has grown. Much of this is due to the fact that they provide an after sales service on every product they sell at very competitive rates. All the secondhand vehicle come with a full service, valid NCT / DOE Test, fully valeted and parts exchanges are always welcome. They provide all finance options available. â&#x20AC;&#x153;While the road to recovery remains challenging, the success of the second hand trade and the return of the buyers to the forecourt are very positive indication for 2011,â&#x20AC;? admitted John.

There is a wide range of vehicles to choose from

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

This Ford Prefect takes pride of place in the showroom

A selection of the stock of Midway Light Commercials

The showrooms are modern and spacious

Midway’s location is key to their success

That is a brave but true statement to make and one that proves the quality of service that John and staff have prided themselves on down through the years. “A lot of work has gone into upgrading the facilities and it is important to move with the times. The customer needs to feel comfortable in the surroundings and we feel that we have achieved that with the work that was done four years ago.” John admitted that they have had to work hard over the last few years to ensure that the business continued to grow and he revealed that 2010 was the best year that he had so far“The car and light commercial industry has suffered greatly in the last few years and our aim is to re-invent ourselves and continue to give the customers what they want. This business was built on providing a top quality service and customer satisfaction was always first and foremost with us. We did very well in 2010 and we are hopeful that can continue through to this year.” Midway Light Commercials concentrate on delivering a top quality service to its large customer base and John feels that they are heading in the right direction on this front. “We would have a large customer base that would include all the surrounding counties, many of who have been with us for years at this stage. Around 70% of our sales would be from repeat customers.” Sourcing good vehicles means that John will travel to the U.K where he spent many years and built up a network of contacts over there allowing him to get the best value on the market. “The second hand market is going very well at the moment, but with such a demand, there is a problem that there might be a shortage of second vehicles in the next year or two. I bring all mine in from England. I find that they are a better value and better quality. “We have a great selection second hand vehicles on the forecourt at any given time, so the customer will have plenty to choose from and the friendly staff are on hand to help out if wanted.” John opted not to become a main dealer as he feels that it restricts the level of service that he is keen to provide and allows him to sell the vehicles that he wants to sell his customers. “I just didn't want to be a main dealer. The way I am now, I work for myself and make all the decisions, which I am more comfortable with, while I know what the customer wants and will do my best to get that for them.” IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Best Wishes & Continued Success to Midway Light Commercials from

COYNE TYRES BALLINA LTD. T &B S &S

BOLAND MOTOR FACTORS

DEDICATED

Mercy Road, Ballina, Co. Mayo. Tel: 096 78484 Fax: 096-75682 Email: bolandmotorfactors@eircom.net

Waterlane, Ballina, County Mayo. T: 096-21935 F: 096-72660 After Hours: 087-2686360 E: patjnr@eircom.net Web: www.coynetyres.ie

STOCKISTS OF ALL LEADING REPLACING CAR PARTS

YRE ATTERY ALES ERVICE • NOW DOING TRUCK ALIGNMENTS • • HAWEKA TRUCK ALIGNMENTS • • WHEEL BALANCE SPECIALIST • • STOP SHOULDER WEAR ON TYRES • • STOP VIBRATIONS IN STEERING WHEEL • • PUT YOUR TRUCK BACK TO NEW •

Continued Success to Midway Light Commercials

Best Wishes To Midway Light Commercials From

Colm Burns Commercials Ltd. Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles

Dublin Rd., Ballisadare, Co. Sligo T: 353 71 9160986 - 10 Lines F: 353 71 9161889 Email: sales@cbc.ie

Best wishes to Midway Light Commercials, from

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Midway Light Commercials From

Carraroe Auto Supplies

Ballisodare Town Centre, Ballisodare, Co. Sligo Tel: 071-9133320. Fax: 071-9130908

The Square, Collooney, Co. Sligo. Tel: 071-9167988

Old Dublin Road, Carraroe, Co. Sligo Telephone: 071 9161555

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www.irishtrucker.com IRISH & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

This Ford Prefect takes pride of place in the showroom

A selection of the stock of Midway Light Commercials

The showrooms are modern and spacious

Midway’s location is key to their success

Best Wishes & Continued Success to Midway Light Commercials from

COYNE TYRES BALLINA LTD. T &B S &S

BOLAND MOTOR FACTORS

DEDICATED

Mercy Road, Ballina, Co. Mayo. Tel: 096 78484 Fax: 096-75682 Email: bolandmotorfactors@eircom.net

Waterlane, Ballina, County Mayo. T: 096-21935 F: 096-72660 After Hours: 087-2686360 E: patjnr@eircom.net Web: www.coynetyres.ie

STOCKISTS OF ALL LEADING REPLACING CAR PARTS

Continued Success to Midway Light Commercials

Best Wishes To Midway Light Commercials From

Colm Burns Commercials Ltd. Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles

Dublin Rd., Ballisadare, Co. Sligo T: 353 71 9160986 - 10 Lines F: 353 71 9161889 Email: sales@cbc.ie

Best wishes to Midway Light Commercials, from

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Midway Light Commercials From

Carraroe Auto Supplies

Ballisodare Town Centre, Ballisodare, Co. Sligo Tel: 071-9133320. Fax: 071-9130908

The Square, Collooney, Co. Sligo. Tel: 071-9167988

Old Dublin Road, Carraroe, Co. Sligo Telephone: 071 9161555

Don’t be left in the dark log on to

www.irishtrucker.com IRISH & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

OMD Waste: a new beginning Many companies have been forced to change their outlook with regards to their business, due to the economic climate that has gripped this nation tighter than any vice could.

nfortunately, some companies have been unable to survive the cull, while others are battling hard to survive. One of the key elements of survival is the ability to diversify into other areas and provide a service that customers want and need. One such company that has managed to do this is PF Dixon Plant Hire run by Paul Dixon, who has been in plant hire for many years and his office manager Joan Quinlan who spoke to us about these challenging times and gave us an insight to the newest string of their bow.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The construction industry has certainly been hit badly, but we never lost the run of ourselves during the boom. We have spent the last 12months getting all our plant serviced and updated so that we are ready to move when things improve. We have also updated our fleet with rail excavators and dumpers. We decided to hold out here and try to ride out the recession, rather than go abroad to look for work as so many others have done. We have also opened our Waste Recycling Facility under our sister company OMD Waste Recycling which

is the fruition of 8 years of planning, which was established in March 2010. We have known for some years that recycling was the way forward and had been trying to get planning permission, unfortunately, it came at the end of the boom. We have invested a lot of money into starting the recycling business and with no grants available, we have had to do it all ourselves. It was a big chance to take, but it is slowly starting to pay off. Waste Management is a very contentious issue and the problem of disposing of unwanted material has caused major hassle for

OMD Waste Recycling have their own recycling facility

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Waste management is a crucial part of the business

local authorities and the government. Nonetheless, it is an ongoing battle to clean up our environment and OMD Waste is one such company dedicated to the cause. The company specialise in Skip Hire both commercial and domestic, supplying skips from 2cy to

35cy roll on roll off skips to building contractors, businesses and the general public. Joan revealed that the company has invested heavily in meeting the required standards to be able to operate such a facility and its something that they have worked very

hard on since this end of the business was established last year. The huge facility caters for all types of materials that pass through, which is hand picked and waste is segregated into categories for recycling, i.e. glass, timber, metal,

The company supplies skips from 2cy to 35cy roll-on, roll-off

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Wishing Paul And OMD WASTE RECYCLING LTD Continued Success In The Future From

multimetals

recycling ltd.

Metal Processors & Exporters Factory & Site Clearance Specialist All Metals Bought Skip & Collection Service

e: office@multimetals.ie

Bollarney, The Murrough, Wicklow Town

PF Dixon maintain an excellent fleet

plastics, etc. We have all the relevant permits from Waste Facility Permit to Collection permits and every skip can be traced from source to disposal, which is a necessity these days as customers are responsible for where waste is disposed of and want to make sure they are dealing with a reputable company. Each skip can be delivered and collected, with numerous skip lorries operating on

Continued Good wishes To All At OMD Waste Recycling 64

a daily basis; no customer will have to wait too long for delivery or collection which is normally on the day requested. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a competitive business and it is essential to provide an efficient service at a reasonable rate that is affordable to the customers, otherwise they will just go elsewhereâ&#x20AC;?. The Joint Waste Management Plan covering the period 2006 to 2011was adopted in June 2006 and reflects changes in population, waste arising and infrastructural requirements. The objective of the plan is to secure the best environmental management of waste generated in the region and OMD Waste Recycling Ltd is leading the charge to implement a number of these principles.

The company specialise in skip hire to both commercial and domestic customers

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Best Wishes To OMD Waste Recycling Ltd From

ALL-PLANT

CURRAN COMMERCIALS

PLANT & EQUIPMENT Anneville, Clonard, Enfield Co. Meath Tel: (046) 9551199 Fax: (046) 9551505 Freefone: 1800 22 22 47 E: info@allplant.ie

NON OPERATED PLANT & EQUIPMENT HIRE & SALES

Kells Road, Oldcastle, Co. Meath. Tel: 049 8541114 Fax: 049 8541812 Email: joe@curran.net

Best Wishes Too OM MD Waaste Reccycling Ltd Froom SUPPLIERS OF BRAKE & CLUTCH COMPONENTS TO THE MOTOR & ALLIED TRADES Unit 15-3, 15-4 Crag Terrace Clondalkin Ind Est, Dublin 22

Tel: (01) 461 3400 • Fax: (01) 461 3450

Email: info@capitalbrakeandclutch.com • Website: www.capitalbrakeandclutch.com

WISHING OMD WASTE RECYCLING CONTINUED SUCCESS

Continued Best Wishes To OMD Waste Recycling Ltd From

BLACKHEATH BRAKE AND CLUTCH Unit 11B Parkmore Ind Est., Longmile Road, Dublin 12. Tel: (01) 4504184 Fax: (01) 4503157 Continued Best Wishes To OMD Waste Recycling Ltd

We specialise in fabricating structural steel, agricultural buildings, indoor arena, stabling and commercial buildings etc. Monasteroris Ind Est, Edenderry, Co. Offaly,

Tel: +353-46-9731429 | Fax: +353-46-9731570 Email: info@dunvale.ie www.dunvale.ie Best Wishes To OMD Waste Recycling Ltd

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

IRISH & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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www.irishtrucker.com 65

McConaghy Refrigerated Distribution operates throughout Ireland and the UK

A premium service Irish Trucker headed to Ballymoney in Antrim to speak to Richard McConaghy - founding director of McConaghy Refrigerated Distribution Ltd., one of the superior distributors of chilled and frozen products operating in Ireland and the UK.

pecialising in the collection and distribution of chilled and frozen products, McConaghy Refrigerated Distribution is a familyowned road haulage company operating out of Ballymoney, County Antrim. Established by Richard McConaghy in 1998, the business has evolved into one of Northern Ireland’s premier chilled / frozen distribution companies.

Since the company’s inception, the fleet – which is maintained in immaculate working condition - has grown to include an impressive array of temperature-controlled vehicles (ranging from 18-tonne trucks with dual compartments and tail lifts to 44tonne artics), all boasting remote monitoring to ensure that produce reaches its destination in perfect condition.

Founder Richard remains very much at the forefront of the team, adopting a hands-on approach to the day-to-day running of the business. He’s always available to take calls or deal with queries and is never afraid to roll up his sleeves and get behind the wheel of a truck either in Ireland or the UK. In this respect, he is ably assisted by a trusty team of loyal drivers, many of whom have been with the company IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Refridgerated transport is the sole focus of the company

own 14 years ago with one Volvo FL6-12 rigid refrigerated truck distributing goods for companies throughout Northern Ireland - and had developed a mixed fleet of Scania, Volvo and DAF within three years. Today, the fleet comprises Scania predominantly, and one DAF. “We still had a mixed fleet two years ago but have moved more and more towards Scania,” Richard reveals. A top-class service is provided with every consignment and the 24-hour operation includes GPS tracking on all trailers throughout Ireland and the UK. A same-day

since its inception. Richard’s wife Jackie and son Gavin are also actively involved in the daily running of the business. The office is manned by dedicated administrative staff 24 hours a day, seven days per week, and monthly staff meetings are held to keep everybody up to speed with all the latest issues and developments within the industry. This is one of the many added extras that combine to ensure a premium service. Richard started out on his IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

collection service (with remote temperature-controlled trailers) ensures that goods arrive at their destination in perfect condition every time. All consignments - regardless of size - are tracked form collection to destination - and the McConaghy service team is available around the clock to liaise with customers. An overnight groupage service is provided from the UK and Ireland. “We specialise in refrigerated, chilled and frozen food distribution,” Richard confirms. “We work for all the supermarkets, shops etc. and cover the UK, Northern Ireland and the

Two pristine Scania tractor units

The firm has moved towards a Scania fleet

Republic of Ireland.” Of course, most companies are feeling the pinch of the current economic slowdown and McConaghy Refrigerated Distribution is no different. Richard established a second company seven years ago – McConaghy Transport – and expanded substantially, but he was forced to close this company down last year to focus his full attention on the refrigerated business: “We’ve had to cut back quite a bit but we’re making sure we serve our existing customer base to the very highest levels. We’ve built our company reputation by offering an optimum service and that’s what we’ll continue to do. The way things are, we’re just going to focus on giving the very highest standards of service and hopefully the economy will start to pick up again soon,” Richard notes. Despite the slowdown, Richard still oversees a fleet of six trucks – two rigids and four artics – as well as eight refrigerated trailers. “Overall, we can’t complain since we streamlined the business,” he says. “We’ve got rid of

all the fat and we’re running a very lean company now, with no waste and a premium service at the right price. Our existing customers are getting a very good service and we’re still pricing new work, so all in all the business is in good hands. “From a personal point of view, it was very disappointing to have to let six or seven lads go, but we held onto them as long as we could and there was nothing else we could do in the end. Hopefully we’ll soon be in a position to be able to take on additional staff again.” Spiralling diesel costs have driven many operators to the wall. What’s Richard’s take on this ongoing epidemic? “Fortunately, our loyal customer base is sticking by us as we couldn’t absorb those costs ourselves, but it’s certainly a major problem for the industry and there’s no end in sight. At the moment, the best case scenario seems to be that diesel prices will stabilise … it’s hard to see them going back to where they were.”

The company has an in-house mechanic but most of the heavy work is sub-contracted out. Looking to the future, Richard concludes: “At the minute, things are very unpredictable. We’ll have to accept whatever comes our way and do our best with it. The industry has been through a tough time and I think we’ll all be prepared for literally anything at this stage. My hope would be that things can’t get much worse with the economy. We’ll just continue to knuckle down and provide an outstanding service. That has served us well for the past 14 years and fingers crossed it will continue to do so.” McConaghy Refrigerated Distribution Ltd. 218 Castlecat Road, Derrykeighan Ballymoney BT53 8AT Phone: 028 2074 2977 Fax: 028 2074 1562 Email: info@mcconaghytransport.ie www.mcconaghytransport.ie IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

TECHNICAL TRANSPORT PRODUCTS would like to wish McConaghy Refrigerated continued success in the future Woodside Industrial Estate, Woodside Road, Ballymena, BT42 4HX Tel: (028) 2564 6481 Fax: (028) 2564 0351 Email: ttp@thermoking.co.uk

J.N.K. Components Ltd. THE CAR, COMMERCIAL & TRACTOR PARTS PEOPLE Main Agents for: OERLIKON WELDING PRODUCTS, EXCELUBE OIL, VARTA BATTERIES, NIGAS & DONALDSON FILTERS Pennybridge Industrial Estate, Ballymena, Co. Antrim BT42 3HB

Tel: 028-256 48111 Fax: 028 256 42422 Email: info@jnkcomponents.co.uk

www.jnkcomponents.co.uk

Best Wishes To McConaghy Refrigerated

Best Wishes To McConaghy Distribution from

R.BARKLEY & SONS LTD. HGV/LGV & TRAILERS Resprays - Accident Damage Shot Blasting - Vehicle Hire - Signage DUNGANNON Tel: 028 877 61657. Mob: 07909 538 655 E:steen.commercial@btinternet.com

Best Wishes To McConaghy Distribution

U.K. & Eire Services Warehousing & Distribution HAULAGE CONTRACTORS

14 Landhead Rd., Ballymoney, Co. Antrim BT53 1HD

Tel: Ballymoney (028) 276 63301 /62696 Fax: (028) 276 65286 Heywood Depot Tel: 0170 662 2252 • Fax: 0170 662 2280

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IRISH

www.irishtrucker.com & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Best Wishes To Armagh Recycling & Skip Hire

Keep on trucking with

IRISH & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Best Wishes To Armagh Recycling & Skip Hire, From

D.M Waste

Wishing Continued Success To Curran Recycling

Supplier of Spares To Suit

Refuse Collection, Skip Hire & Recycling

DAF - SCANIA VOLVO - BPW -ROR

Labbadish, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal.

76 Clonfeacle Road, Blackwater Town, Dungannon, Co. Tyrone BT71 7HP

Tel: 074 9157189 Fax: 074 9157466 Email: info@dmwaste.com

www.dmwaste.com

Tel: 048 37549575 • Fax: 048 37548883 Mobile: 07710 377099

Email: info@hughestruckspares.com

Best Wishes To Armagh Recycling & Skip Hire

86 Armagh Road, Moy, Co. Tyrone BT71 7JA IRISH

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Nothing goes to waste The waste management industry is a specialised sector that involves skilled professionals ensuring that all legislation is adhered too.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

“We wouldn't have a big turnover of staff. The majority of or this month's edition of Irish Trucker, we profile people that join us stay with the company. Everyone has a Armagh based Curran Waste, who has entered its role to play and they all help out.” fourth decade in business. They say that longevity is The advancement of legislation in the waste industry has the gauge by a company's success is measured and on meant that traceability is key to operations and this is that front, there are few to rival this family run business. something that Barry and his team make First, we will take a brief look at where it all began and to do that we go back to “We provide a wide sure is kept in order. “Legislation plays a very important part the late seventies, when Thomas Curran range of services in waste management. In recent years, it established Curran Waste 30 years ago. across the waste has become an integral part of the There have been many changes within industry. There are plenty of rules and the industry over the past 30 years, but management regulations to be adhered too, but they Curran Waste's ability to move with the sector. This are there for a reason and it is important times has resulted in their sustainability. includes domestic to follow them stringently.” Thomas adopted a policy of trust, and commercial Curran Waste looks after a number of efficiency and reliability that has stood commercial properties as part of its the company in good stead over the waste collection service and they can tailor a package years, while the customer base has services across best suited for the customer. increased on an annual basis. Armagh and the “Cost is everything in this current Thomas' sons Barry, Gerald and James surrounding economic climate and we have the continue their father's ethos of looking experience to provide efficient cost after their customers and providing a counties.” effective services for commercial and service that they were happy with. industrial properties. Curran Waste has been one of the “The specific needs of hotels, offices, pubs, restaurants, leaders in its field of expertise ever since and have lead shops, printers, supermarkets and manufacturers are all the way in providing additional services to their customers. catered for in the best possible way for them.” Situated at 18 Blackwater, Armagh, the company Through its collection service the company has a number specialises in the collection and recycling of household of trucks on the roads collecting waste from both waste as well as sludge and septic tank clearings. commercial and domestic dwellings. The fleet is keep The company has recently acquired a waste license, relatively new and this cuts down on any downtime that which allows them to recycle all products and a major can be caused by older vehicles. investment has gone into upgrading their facilities to the “We are competing in a tough market and the main push sufficient standard. The company runs this end of the will be to develop the domestic side of the business. We business under the new name of Armagh Recycling. have done that by starting providing a reliable service and “We provide a wide range of services across the waste hopefully we can expand that further over the coming management sector. This includes domestic and months. commercial waste collection services across Armagh and The company has certainly moved with the times and no the surrounding counties,” said General Manager Barry expense has been spared in installing the latest machinery Curran. and technology to ensure that all waste is disposed of in “We also offer a full range of skips, which are primarily the proper manner. used for private use. The construction industry has suffered For the past 30 years, the essential ingredients of hard greatly in the last year or so and we have had to adapt to work and supplying a top quality service remain. This has that fact. There is still a decent request for skips from the resulted in Curran Waste remaining private and industrial sectors.” ahead of its competitors, while their Another service provided by the desire to keep improving has benefited company is waste recycling where all their large customer base. materials brought to the facility is sorted and segregated before being recycled into various products. “The recycling cuts down on sending materials to landfill, which helps the “We are competing in a environment and greatly reduces the tough market and the amount of residual sent to landfill main push will be to sites. develop the domestic “The majority of the waste we collect is recycled here, but with the likes of side of the business. tyres, we would collect them, but they We have done that by are recycled at another depot. starting providing a Curran Waste have a dedicated and reliable service and highly trained staff that ensure the business runs smoothly and as a hopefully we can team they have seen the company expand that further over grew into one of the most efficient the coming months.” waste management companies in the country.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

TRUCK NEWS n with in associatio

BIT’S ‘N’ BOB’S

TRUCK ACCESSORIES Monaghan (087) 2480730 • TRUCK ACCESSORIES IN 1 STOP - INTERIOR & EXTERIOR • IRISH AGENT FOR KELSA TRUCK BAR’S • NATIONWIDE NEXT DAY DELIVERY

SDC Unveils Increased Capacity Trailer at Tip-Ex SDC Trailers has unveiled a new lightweight walking floor trailer at the annual Tip-Ex Show at Harrogate. The new design, which features an all-aluminium chassis, body and rear doors, is around 1.5tonnes lighter than previous models and allows the trailer to weight in at well under eight tonnes. The saving will allow operators to effectively carry more bulk product thereby increasing operational efficiency and reducing road miles. The tri-axle unit has an increased capacity of 90.2 cubic metres with an overall height of 4.15 metres. The tapered body also helps increase capacity and aids discharge of the load. SDC also displayed an improved version of its tried and tested chipliner trailer. At 4.6 metres in height, it features a reinforced bulkhead and specially designed tougher curtains with twice as many fastening buckles to secure loads. This year the Tip-Ex Show featured Commercial Motor’s Legal Seminar to help keep operators up to speed with new legislation and proposals. SDC director Paul Bratton joined Department for Transport’s Nick Denton on the expert panel to discuss the current proposals around longer trailers and how it may affect leading trailer manufacturers,operators and the UK market. Paul Bratton, SDC director, said: “Our new walking floor trailer drew a lot of interest and I think people are still looking at ways to be more efficient and save money. With its lightweight chassis, the trailer offers a 6% increase in payload which with help operators save fuel and reduce carbon emissions. “The Commercial Motor seminar was also useful and provided an insight as to how the future of transport may look if the longer trailer proposals are adopted. Operators want to know how it will affect them but I think, in the long term, the proposals will be advantageous to the industry.”

Biofuels identified as key growth area Global alternative fuel markets will grow more rapidly than conventional fuels in the next five years. As the global economy continues its recovery, this trend has been predicted by a report identifying biofuels as a critical growth area. While petroleum-based fuel demand, including alternatives such as natural gas, reduced during 2009, growth has resumed in line with economic growth with greater annual increases forecast in the newgrowth BRIC markets. However, the market for biofuels is expected to grow more rapidly, with forecasters predicting that by 2015 it will be double its 2009 level, and again, the developing regions are expected to drive growth with AsiaPacific, for example, forecast to account for 20% of global production. Global production of ethanol is expected to increase by about 40% between 2010 and 2015, largely driven by the US and Brazil, while biodiesel production is forecast to increase by more than 50% during that same period, with Europe remaining the main producer. Sources such as jatropha oil from India and Africa are also expected to be establishing a presence by then, accounting for about 7% of supply.

Exports expected to exceed boom levels It has been predicted that Irish exports will surpass the level witnessed during the economic boom Speaking at the British Irish Parliamentary Assembly meeting in Cork. Enterprise Ireland’s Frank Ryan expects exports this year to hit levels not seen since 2008 - second only to Germany in the eurozone: “Our annual survey of clients in 2010 shows that Ireland’s indigenous exports reached approximately €13.85bn for 2010. This means Irish exporting companies regained 70% of the exports that had been lost since the dawn of the global recession in 2008. I am confident that, given the indicators at the present time, by the end of 2011, our exports will be higher than they were pre-recession.” However, despite the strong growth, exports may not increase enough to achieve IMF economic targets. The IMF plan for Ireland reducing its debt-to-GDP ratio to 3% by 2015 includes 10% annual export growth over the next four years. But exports are expected to rise by only 7.2% this year. 74

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

New FM Eight Wheelers aid efficiency at HST Feeds A constant drive for efficiency and optimising vehicle uptime are central tenets of the intensive transport operation run by HST Feeds. To help maintain high levels of vehicle availability and overall transport efficiency, the company has recently added two new Volvo FM-420 8X4 rigids to its immaculately turned out in-house fleet of eight trucks – seven of which are Volvos. In order to fix servicing costs, all HST Feeds Volvos are on long-term Repair and Maintenance (R&M) contracts with supplying dealer Thomas Hardie Commercials, whose Middlewich depot look after all their servicing needs. The latest FMs are on 6-year R&M contracts. "Efficiency is part of our mantra," says Associate Director Operations Steve Rogers, adding: "We need to make sure that farmers do not pay for our inefficiencies. That's why we are constantly battling against rising costs on behalf of our customers. Monitoring our transport costs and reducing fuel and unscheduled maintenance bills is vital to maintain our competitive position." The Cheshire-based animal feeds specialist manufactures a comprehensive selection of feeds for livestock from poultry to cattle and sheep at its mill in Crewe and has been operating Volvo trucks since 2006. The mill operates round the clock and the trucks are loaded overnight. The new Priden bulk animal feed bodied 8wheelers are expected to cover around 100,000 kms per annum making deliveries to farms six days a week. The company values the continuity of service it receives from Volvo dealer Thomas Hardie Commercials, who has supplied all the vehicle purchases since 2006. "Our drivers are all long service and know our loyal customer base well. Continuity is important to us and our customers. That's why we don't use agency drivers," says Steve Rogers, "It's also one of the reasons why we continue to deal with Thomas Hardie. For example, their Sales Representative, Mark Lingard has provided this element of continuity as he has been our contact for new vehicles since 2006. We also value the continuity of service they provide generally in terms of the people we deal with at their Middlewich depot which is open 24/7. Thomas Hardie service and MOT our vehicles when it's convenient for us. It's an arrangement which works well to date." The latest FMs are equipped with the D13 engines and I-Shift automated transmissions. Steve Rogers says that the company is satisfied with the performance of the overall Volvo specification package. "It's worked well," he says, "In particular; I-Shift, which we've been running with since July 2010, has helped provide an improvement in fuel economy." The last word has to go to Steve Rogers who sums up the company's continued partnership with Thomas Hardie Commercials and Volvo with the following words: "Although we operate an in-house transport fleet, we're not haulage contractors. Our focus has to be on our customers. Thomas Hardie and Volvo take care of our maintenance in a way which allows us to achieve that."

New online tool from epyx makes ex-fleet used van buying easier for dealer groups Introduced as an element of the company’s 1link Disposal Network e-commerce platform, Group Buyer allows a complete online buying infrastructure to be set up tailored to the dealer group. At an individual franchise or site level within the group, buyers can bid for or buy vehicles that are for sale on the platform – but the transaction is only completed when approved online by a central buyer with overall responsibility for used cars within the group. Ken Trinder, head of business development at epyx, said: “Dealers are increasingly sourcing ex-fleet used car and van stock online because it allows them to set up active searches for exactly the kind of vehicles they want plus it is a much more efficient use of their time than driving all over the country in search of stock. “Group Buyer builds on these advantages by providing a structure that dealer groups can use for their online buying that brings additional flexibility and control. We are already receiving a lot of interest in the product from some of our largest dealer buyers.” Trinder added that the number of transactions through 1link Disposal Network had been growing rapidly through 2011. He said: “Twice as many vehicles were sold through the platform in April than in January, which is an indication of the speed with which dealer groups are recognising the advantages of buying online.” Used by major fleets such as leasing companies to sell stock to used car and van dealers, 1link Disposal Network forms a component in the 1link cradle-to-grave e-commerce vehicle life cycle which includes e-commerce platforms covering vehicle procurement, service and maintenance, taxation and rental. IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Heavy Duty Axial Piston Pumps for Crane and High Pressure Applications

• Also Top Speed Limiters • Reverse in Safety Devices Full Range of Hydraulic Power Packs, Pumps, Motors, Control Valves, Oil Coolers, Filters IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

www.tech-international.com

MILES MORE VALUE! UNI-SEAL MAX OFFERS PERMANENT RE PAIRS THAT OUTLAST THE LIFE OF your TYREs!

LEAD WIRE

Tech Internationalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new UNI-SEAL MAX repair system is the most advanced tyre repair system available. Exceeding all industry standards, the innovative system offers a unique multi-layer cross weave reinforcement and lead wire system - ensuring the best performance and fastest installation possible.

CROSS WEAVE CONSTRUCTION

TECH EUROPE SUPPORTING TECHPLUS - OFFERING A NATIONWIDE SERVICE Techplus Ltd Tel: 0140 49060 www.techplus.Ie 6263_TECH_IRISH_TRUCKER_AD_v3.indd 1

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