Irish Trucker July/August 2019

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24

DENNEHY COMMERCIALS STEELE’S FUEL FREIGHT

FULL OF THE PIPE REVIEW

CON TEN TS 4 TRUCK NEWS 24 FULL OF THE PIPE REVIEW A look back on the brilliant 2019 10th Anniversary Truck Show.

30 SIGN WAREHOUSE

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37 LOUGHRAN COMMERCIALS

50 JAS MCCARTHY TRANSPORT

Specialising in AdBlue and Diesel particulate filter (Dpf) cleaning services.

Operating from Carrigtwohill, Co. Cork for a quarter of a century.

40 LAVERY TRANSPORT

56 SPECTO

The Leitrim company with clients all around Ireland.

A leading provider of road haulage and distribution services.

34 PROUDFOOT MOTORS

44 JAY COMMERCIALS

Celebrating their 50th Anniversary in business.

Renowned far and wide as braking systems specialists.

The sole agents for Houghton Parkhouse in the Republic of Ireland.

60 SOUTHEAST CPC Road transport training, compliance and engineering.

64 MCELCHAR INTERNATIONAL

67 ALPHABELLA LTD. Offering the most reliable and cost-effective replacement tyres.

70 BALLINLOUGH REFRIGERATION Christina Dockery has been working for Ballinlough Refrigeration for 23-years.

74 MCGRATH COACHES One of the premier coach hire companies in the west of Ireland.

Leaders in seafood groupage between Ireland and Scotland.

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78 DENNEHY COMMERCIALS Has opened a new base in Blanchardstown, Co Dublin.

82 LYONS EUROPEAN Expanding their fleet with a number of Scania’s.

86 STEELE’S FUEL FREIGHT A family-run oil distribution business based in Larne, Co. Antrim.

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Warrenpoint Port to become major CO2 hub in £9.5 M (Eu11m) investment Japanese industrial gas company Nippon Gases is to establish a major liquid carbon dioxide (CO2) import and distribution terminal at Warrenpoint Port.

The £9.5million (€11m) Warrenpoint Port CEO Clare Guinness joins, from left, Colin Trundley, European Operation Director project represents the first major Liquid CO2, Nippon Gases and Gerard Dore, Commercial and Logistics Manager – Ireland, Nippon Gases to announce a £9.5 million investment by the Japanese firm that will establish a major liquid carbon investment in Ireland by the firm dioxide (CO2) import and distribution terminal at the harbour. since it purchased Praxair Gases Europe in December ‘18.

The facility which will store liquid CO2 for the food and drinks industry across Ireland, aims to significantly improve security of supply for the gas on both sides of the border, and also lead to a major reduction in carbon emissions by minimising the need for road tankers.

Work is due to commence this summer on the construction of the facility, which is expected to become operational in Q2 2020.

Clare Guinness, CEO, Warrenpoint Port, commented: “This investment by Nippon Gases is a major endorsement of Warrenpoint Port and recognises the benefits provided by our unique position equidistant between Belfast and Dublin that ideally places the harbour to facilitate the distribution of goods across the whole of Ireland.

“The commencement of construction work on the terminal soon will signal the final stage of a scheme that we have been working on for some time.

“The project represents another important element in our efforts to enhance Warrenpoint Port’s offering and cement our position as a catalyst for economic growth in the local region and further afield.”

The establishment of the liquid carbon dioxide import terminal, which will have the capacity to hold approximately 2,500 tonnes, follows a major shortage of the gas experienced in Ireland and United Kingdom during the summer of 2018.

Gerard Dore, Commercial Manager, Nippon Gases, added: “CO2 is a key ingredient in the production of food and beverages. People know that it adds the fizz to drinks. Many are not aware however that it is also used in the processing of meat and food products. Food applications include modified atmosphere packing, chilling and freezing of foods. It is also used in the production of dry ice which is used in airline catering, online food sales plus transport of pharmaceutical and clinical products.

“However, with no significant native source of liquid Carbon Dioxide on the island of Ireland. All liquid carbon dioxide is currently imported by all the industrial gas companies daily into Ireland via road tankers coming across the Irish Sea. “Nippon Gases already own a number of CO2 terminals and ships in North West Europe. With this investment in Ireland, Nippon are changing the supply chain radically for their Irish customers by importing via ship rather than road tanker. It is worth noting that one ship will be the equivalent of 90 road tankers coming across the Irish Sea. The carbon footprint reduction is very large. In addition we are also linking in with the more abundant CO2 source region of continental Europe, namely Netherlands. This is important as the British Isles currently do not produce sufficient quantities of CO2 for their annual usage.

“This facility will ensure we can continue to guarantee into the future food grade, completely traceable liquid Carbon Dioxide that Irish industry both North and South of the border desires.

“We are delighted to be working with Warrenpoint Port on this exciting venture and look forward to commissioning the terminal next year.”

The works are in addition to Warrenpoint Port’s £4m capital investment programme that includes a reconfiguration of internal infrastructure and the regeneration of the landmark Town Dock House building that will re-establish an interface between the harbour and the town.

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It’s back! DAF UK Driver Challenge to find nation’s top driver

The DAF UK Driver Challenge is back – DAF Trucks’ country-wide search to find the very best commercial vehicle driver form the UK and Ireland. The third edition of the Challenge will culminate in 2020 where the preeminent driver will emerge from an elite group of 20 individuals after competing at a two-day Final at the Millbrook Proving Ground.

Following an initial online registration process – including assessments on road knowledge and an understanding of the CV industry – selected drivers will be invited to a series of Regional Qualifiers around the UK and Ireland throughout 2019 and into next year.

A final 20 drivers will then go head-tohead in a series of challenging practical and knowledge-based appraisals centred around a two-day event at Millbrook next Spring, the winner to be crowned DAF UK Driver Champion. Under the direction of DAF Trucks Driver Training and Press Test Manager, Mandy Wannerton, on- and off-road driving challenges will be scored alongside theory and knowledge-based assessments.

To ensure a level playing field, and that the final contenders are a true

reflection of the nation’s very best drivers, the DAF Driver Challenge is open to drivers of any vehicle marque.

The winning driver will follow in the footsteps of 2016’s victor, Paul Barlow of Severn Trent Water, and last year’s winner Scott Lewis of Best Connection.

Scott’s victory also means he progresses to the inaugural Europewide International DAF Driver Challenge culminating on the 28th September 2019 at the Goodyear proving ground in Luxembourg.

The DAF UK Driver Challenge is open to any driver with a clean C+E Licence, a Driver Card and a Driver CPC. To truly maximise the potential of identifying the nation’s elite drivers, the Challenge is also open to non-DAF

drivers. Candidates must enter by visiting https://drivers.daf.com/en-GB “The DAF Driver Challenge really captures the imagination of the driving community,” said Phil Moon, Marketing Manager at DAF Trucks, “the response was huge last time, and so we have expanded the scope of the preliminary rounds this time in anticipation of an even greater number of entrants.

“Make no mistake,” he said, “this is a challenge in the true sense of the word. Our 20 finalists must display exemplary levels of driving skill, road awareness and a deep understanding of the transport business. The winner can rightly claim to be the best of the best – regardless of the make and model of their own vehicle.”

From June, start-stop standard on Mercedes-Benz Sprinters Fuel and emissions-conscious van users – especially those for whom vans are a frontline distribution tool – will be interested to know that ‘Start-Stop’ technology is to be added as a standard fitment on all Mercedes-Benz Sprinters sold in Ireland from June.

With the addition of this important new feature as a standard item, the new Sprinter (which is already WLTP compliant) puts itself to the forefront in matters relating to fuel savings and emissions reduction.

Commenting, Fergus Conheady, sales manager for MercedesBenz commercial vehicles in Ireland said: ‘thanks to the addition of start-stop technology as an in-built feature on all Sprinters, owners such as those engaged in food, drinks and commodities distribution, and those providing courier services and van rental clients, have a platform on which to demonstrate environmental responsibility whilst recording valuable bottom line savings’.

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Allison Transmission is providing its e-axle solution to Peterbilt for evaluation on powerful electric class 8 truck

Amidst the global pursuit of electrification in the commercial vehicle industry, Allison Transmission, a global leader in commercial-duty propulsion solutions, announced the development of highly efficient and powerful axles for electric vehicles.

Allison’s AXE Series propulsion system will deliver viable, industry-changing electric solutions for the market. Launched at the 2019 Advanced Clean Technology (ACT) Expo in Long Beach, California, the AXE Series electric powertrain will be integrated in Peterbilt’s Model 579EV electric Class 8 truck for evaluation and testing. As a result, the truck features 1,475 horsepower (1,100 kilowatts), delivering industry-leading performance as well as efficiency.

“Allison is pleased to be building upon its legacy of innovation and believe this product will be a significant step in taking the industry to the next level of electrification,” said David S. Graziosi, Allison Transmission President and CEO. “We value this opportunity to work with an industry leader.”

Peterbilt’s 579EV model electric Class 8 truck is on display in the Peterbilt booth at ACT Expo (booth 1934) featuring Allison’s innovative AXE Series e-axle.

DAF Fleet Services to deliver real benefits for operators

DAF Trucks is focusing on its aftersales portfolio for CV Show visitors and is showcasing a new web portal that brings all elements of DAF Fleet Services into one easy to access location for users.

DAF Fleet Services is already employed by a number of high profile fleet operators, with many describing it as a highly effective fleet management facility; able to safeguard fleet compliance and remove the administrative burden for fleet operations.

At its heart, DAF Fleet Services oversees the maintenance of the vehicles contained within a fleet, with the the core benefits of Link & Chase and Non-contract Single Point Invoicing.

New Fleet Insights Portal A DAF Fleet Services portal has also been developed to simplify access to fleet KPIs. A simple, ‘tailorable’ screen

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

enables a quick-and-easy oversight of the fleet maintenance regime, adherence to plan for scheduled maintenance, MOT pass rates and non-contract repairs allowing the user to drill down and enable management by exception The Fleet Insights portal will also enhance DAF Trucks’ DVSA Earned recognition solution by moving it’s suite of Key Performance Indicator (KPI) reporting to an online platform whilst still being driven by the industry renowned DAFCheck system, one of the first Earned Recognition IT maintenance systems to be validated by the DVSA. Link & Chase Link & Chase protects an operator’s O-License and frees up valuable resources. Vehicles are monitored daily to ensure all service inspections and legal requirements are booked and completed within the necessary time periods. Problematic bookings, along with missed inspections, are reported on a weekly basis.

Detailed Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are issued monthly, allowing operators to keep fully abreast of fleet performance.

Non-contract Single Point Invoicing Non-contract Single Point Invoicing reduces the adminstrative burden of managing multiple invoices, with the responsibility of dealing with any unexpected costs handed to DAF Fleet Services. Costs not covered under a Repair & Maintenance contract such as accident damage, defects and AdBlue replenishment, are individually evaluated in-house by DAF Fleet Services.

A single invoice, generated once a month, is issued alongside a back-up report itemising each individual charge. Non-contract work with single point invoicing is offered to all DAF Trucks customers based on a monthly payment and for vehicles under any contract package.

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Michelin expands heavyduty truck tyre range

Michelin has expanded its popular X Multi T2 tyre range with the launch of four new 17.5” sizes, designed for low platform trailers, such as step frames, car transporters and doubledecks.

The introduction of 215/75 R17.5, 235/75 R17.5, 245/70 R17.5 and 205/65 R17.5 tyres to the X Multi T2 range enables more fleets to benefit from Michelin’s latest generation technologies – with the tyres designed to offer the best combination of robustness, mileage and grip for predominantly regional missions.

Commenting, Chris Smith, Sales Director B2B UK and ROI at Michelin, says: “The continued

expansion of the X Multi T2 range is a direct result of the more than €600 million we invest in research and development every year.

“These new tyres are the perfect fit for heavy-duty transport fleets where reliability, whatever the weather, is absolutely key.”

Innovation is at the heart of Michelin’s product development, and the new Michelin X Multi T2 fitments incorporate the latest Regenion technology; a self-regenerating tread pattern which includes hidden grooves that appear as the tread wears down. These extra grooves help to maintain high levels of grip, traction and safety throughout the tyre’s life.

The 215/75 R17.5, 235/75 R17.5 and the 245/70 R17.5 are available on the replacement market, and as original equipment by trailer manufacturers, with immediate effect. The 205/65 R17.5 are expected to follow in September

TruTac in the driving seat as new Compliance Control software is launched at CV Show

TruTac, the tachograph and compliance software experts, launched a newly integrated product at this year’s CV Show. The redesigned TruLicence system enables operators to validate, monitor and control key driving licence and CPC compliance information.

Within TruTac’s TruControl platform, TruLicence seamlessly combines driver licence verification and validity checks with tachograph and general compliance data for complete control.

The TruView Manager dashboard includes widgets and alerts to highlight licence issues and potential at-risk drivers with areas of concern.

2019.

The new tyres are both regrooveable and retreadable.

Michelin-new X Multi HDD

Meanwhile, TruTac successfully showcased TruLinks - a comprehensive API suite which gives developer access to key data, while removing the need for manual intervention or data duplication.

TruLinks data is also useful for other systems, reports and critical business decisions, allowing operational data to be transferred; utilising efficient data share and maximising automation.

Commenting on the newly introduced products, TruTac’s Commercial Director, Jemma James says: “This was a great show for us and we were delighted to see so many friends – old and new – come along to see for themselves the wide range of operational and commercial benefits our latest compliance control solutions have to offer.

Launching our third product in partnership with the CPT has also made it a show to remember.”

Key features include: Online driving licence checks Validation of correct information Current endorsements and points Licence status and entitlement to drive Confirmation of all vehicle categories and CPC Checks against disqualified drivers The TruLicence system is simple to use, fully GDPR compliant and secure.

Also launched at this year’s CV show is TruTac’s CPT Licence Check. The same effective level of integration for the PSV market and available at a greatly discounted rate for CPT Members.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Jemma James, TruTac, Commercial Director and Peter Gomersall, CPT, Interim Chief Executive

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DAF delivers 800th three-axle tractor to Turners Cambridgeshire-based haulage firm Turners (Soham) Ltd. has taken delivery of its 800th lightweight ‘FTP’ 6x2 mid-lift tractor from DAF Trucks.

The latest XF 450 FTP meets the requirements of the highly flexible, fast growing East of England-based business specialising in temperature control, tanker operations, storage, warehousing and container distribution.

Turners, the UK’s largest privatelyowned logistics company, is also the world’s largest operator of DAF Trucks’ FTP 6x2 mid-lift tractor unit.

Delivery number 800, registered as ‘T800 FTP’, was delivered by Cambridgeshire and Suffolk based family-owned DAF Dealer Chassis Cab. The truck joins Turners’ 1800 plus strong fleet.

Tim King, Group Fleet Engineer of Turners (Soham), said, “Turners is a name now synonymous with transport and logistics. Our nationwide operations cover the movement of containers, chilled and refrigerated product distribution and tankers carrying liquids and bulk materials. We cover all product sectors including food, building materials and fuels and we are highly committed to evolving the quality services we offer.

“Our continuous investment in DAF products shows our allegiance to the brand and our commitment to keep our fleet in premium condition. The 450bhp FTP tractor is a top-

From left to right: Brennan Gourdie (new Managing Director, Leyland Trucks), Robert Baxter (Managing Director, Chassis Cab Ltd.), Tim King (Group Fleet Engineer, Turners (Soham) Ltd.), Scott Cocks (Regional Sales Manager, DAF Trucks), Joshua Spencer (Sales Engineer, DAF Trucks)

performer; probably the best lightweight truck ever. They are the optimal truck for weight sensitive work and we are proud to be one of the top buyers worldwide.”

Founded in 1930, Turners (Soham) Ltd. is today one of the largest independently-owned transport and distribution businesses in the UK. It specialises in bulk tanker and temperature-controlled work and runs trucks from 32 locations in the UK. Over 80 years on and the company is a UK leader in supply chain solutions.

With 3,500 full time employees, it also has six subsidiary companies: PPL, Pro-Fresh Solutions, Browns, Lewis Tankers, Macintyre Transport and Goldstar. The company’s turnover in 2018 was in excess of £400m.

Scott Cocks, Regional Sales Manager at DAF Trucks, handed over the latest DAF XF to Turners in partnership with Robert Baxter,

Managing Director of Chassis Cab Cambridge along with newly appointed Managing Director of the Leyland Assembly Plant (LAP) Brennan Gourdie. Scott said, “Turners is well recognised within the industry as a professional, family-run haulage business – its growth over the years has been exceptional and DAF Trucks is delighted to play such a key role in the company’s development.

“It was less than 11 months ago that Turners took delivery of their 700th FTP which means they are well on their way to the 1,000 mark! Turners and Chassis Cab are both family run business, and both are highly respected in the East of England. It is satisfying to know that DAF Trucks and Chassis Cab are supplying products and services to allow Turners to maximise their uptime in the most efficient way”.

Block Aid takes delivery of another specialist block trailer from Paneltex Martrans

Milton Keynes based specialist operator Block Aid UK Ltd have taken delivery of their latest 11m block trailer built in Lincolnshire by specialist trailer manufacturer Paneltex Martrans.

Block Aid UK supply and delivers concrete barriers and ballast weights to its customers throughout the UK. The Paneltex Martrans trailer has been purpose designed to suit Block Aid’s specific requirements and includes a steer axle and integrated ballast weight as well as the mounting for the company’s new Moffatt M8 30.3 W NX fork lift, supplied by Hiab UK. Neil West, one of the Directors at Block Aid comments, “This is the second trailer that we’ve bought from Paneltex Martrans and by working closely with them we’ve managed to ensure the trailer gives us the maximum flexibility within our fleet.”

Further information about the full range of Paneltex Martrans trailers can be viewed on the company’s website at www.paneltex.co.uk

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IVECO grows share of Penfold Verrall fleet with first Stralis X-Way tippers

The launch of IVECO’s new Stralis X-Way has brought bulk excavation and muck shift specialist Penfold Verrall one step closer to running an all IVECO fleet, after the Sussex-based company bought four 32-tonners.

The new arrivals replace 8x4s from a competitor marque and increase IVECO’s share of the 30-strong multi-wheeler fleet to more than 90 per cent for the first time. Supplied by Northern Commercials in Hildenborough, they will operate alongside predominately Trakker tippers and tipper grabs in the company’s distinctive blue and yellow livery.

Darren Lynch, Managing Director at Penfold Verrall, says: “We’ve been running Trakkers for more than a decade and really value their suitability for off-road work and getting into landfill sites. The launch of the Stralis X-Way captured our interest as it combines the robustness of IVECO’s toughest model with the fuel efficiency, safety technologies and payload potential of its on-road trucks.”

Penfold Verrall’s order follows the successful week-long trial of a Stralis X-Way demonstrator, which allowed the customer to test the suitability of the new model in a number of applications.

Commenting on his experience with IVECO, Lynch adds: “Previously, we used to keep our trucks for three to four years, but the IVECOs have always proven so reliable we’ve tended to keep them for up to six years. Aftersales care from Northern Commercials has been second-to-none; we have never experienced this level of support from another manufacturer’s dealer.”

Each Stralis X-Way (AD340X420Z) has been built to IVECO’s ‘OFF’ chassis specification – one of three options available alongside ‘ON’ and ‘ON+’ – which ensures the vehicles are suitable for off-road missions. This setup combines excellent ground clearance with the ability to tackle steeper approach angles, making them ideal for the company’s house building and construction-orientated work.

From the outset, IVECO has designed the Stralis X-Way to carry the biggest payload in the sector. Features such as the pneumatic suspension, aluminium rims, plus aluminium air and fuel tanks further reduce kerb weight which means a greater payload can be carried.

All four new vehicles are mounted with Thompson tipper bodies, with Penfold Verrall specifying the trucks to Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) Silver Standard – which include forward-facing cameras and a security tracking system.

Powered by a 11.1-litre Cursor 11 diesel engine delivering 420hp and 2,000 Nm of torque, each Stralis X-Way is expected to clock up approximately 80,000 km a year and will be in operation five days a week.

Introduction of the first Stralis X-Way models allow Penfold Verrall to take advantage of some of IVECO’s most advanced features. This includes the new Hi-TRONIX 12-speed transmission and the new HI-MUX electrical system, which offers improved reliability and increased data management. Additional on-board technologies include IVECO’s HI-CRUISE integrated drive system, which uses GPS to enable predictive cruise control and gear shifting for the most effective fuel saving.

Formed in 2005 with the merger of two family businesses – Penfold Public Works (Sussex) Ltd and G.W. Verrall & Sons – Penfold Verrall specialises in landfill restoration and recycling. It also uses its tipper and plant fleet to support the requirements of construction sites within the Home Counties.

Michelin performs for fire and rescue service

Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service will move its heavy fire appliances to a 100 per cent Michelin tyre policy, after tests on a laden Scania P280 demonstrated the tyres maintained exceptional grip and stability, even with all safety devices deactivated.

The service called on Michelin to demonstrate the capabilities of its 315/70 R 22.5 X Multi Z tyre, as it explored options for replacing its existing policy, which was not delivering on longevity.

Commenting, Wayne Bartram, Transport and Engineering Manager at Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, says: “The performance of the X Multi tyres really impressed us on every level. Our vehicles are required to make swift progress under blue-light conditions, in all weathers, and tyre performance is key to the safety and efficiency of our fleet.”

Designed to blend the lowest cost per mile with outstanding grip yearround, the Michelin X Multi Z tyres will be fitted across the remaining 43 heavy fire appliances as wear dictates, with existing fitments moved between appliances to ensure vehicles transition to the full Michelin policy in one go.

For further information on the Michelin commercial vehicle tyre range visit http://trucks.michelin.co.uk/

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Two DAF CF Electric tractors for Rhenus Logistics in Germany

DAF Trucks has delivered two fully electric 4x2 tractor units to Germany’s Contargo – a subsidiary of global logistics provider, Rhenus Group. The full electric trucks feature EPower Technology from VDL and will be used for container transport around hinterland terminals in the German Lower Rhine area.

The DAF CF Electric deliveries are the first for operations in Germany, and the 6th and 7th to take part in an extensive field test Richard Zink, Director Marketing & Sales and Member of the Board of From left to right – Richard Zink (Director Marketing & Sales, DAF Trucks NV), Michael Viefers, (Member of theManagement at DAF Trucks, Board of Rhenus), Martina Klassen (driver, DAF CF Electric trucks) and Hendrik Wüst (Traffic & Transport Minister of the German State Nordrhein-Westfalen) handed over the key of the CF Electric to Michael Viefers, Member of the Board of the Rhenus Group.

Rhenus Group is a global logistics service company, specialising in Contract Logistics, Freight Logistics and Port Logistics.

It has a turnover of € 4.8 billion, more than 610 locations worldwide and employs 29,000 people. The DAF CF Electric tractors join the fleet of the trimodal container hinterland specialist Contargo, a 100% Rhenus company, handling a total volume of 2 million containers per year.

Electric trucks for urban areas “It is clear that the transport sector is on the cusp of a major transformation”, states Richard Zink. “Take the better route is Contargo’s aim and I am extremely proud that we can support this mission and drive the success of Contargo even further with two DAF CF Electric trucks. They are ‘the better route’ as the electric truck is set to become the norm in more and more urban areas in future, all around Europe.” Zink continues: “We are delighted we can broaden our experience with electric trucks in collaboration with renowned companies like Rhenus. The data we collect about both the technology and the operational deployment will feed into the specifications for the final production models, thus ensuring that they fit seamlessly with the requirements of the market.”

“Important step towards de-carbonization” “We are very proud to be one of the first to drive these pioneering DAFs”, states Jürgen Albersmann, Managing Director at Contargo. “One of our targets is to be de-carbonised by 2050. These trucks represent one important step towards this ambitious target.”

Local container delivery The DAF CF Electric trucks will have their home base in Duisburg and will be used for local container deliveries within the conventional truck fleet of Contargo. The management of the truck will be executed by Rhenus Trucking, acting as service provider for Contargo.

About the DAF CF Electric The DAF CF Electric is a full electric 4x2 tractor unit developed for road haulage of up to 37 tonnes in urban areas, where single-axle or dual-axle trailers are the norm. The vehicle is based on the DAF CF — named 'International Truck of the Year 2018' — and is operated fully electrically using VDL's E-Power Technology. The core of its intelligent powertrain is a 210kW electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery pack with a current total capacity of 170 kWh. The CF Electric has a range of up to 100 kilometres, depending on the weight of its cargo, making it suitable for zero emissions high-volume transport in the urban areas. The batteries have a 30-minute quick-charge feature and a full charge takes just one and a half hours.

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Paragon helps transport operators combat driver shortage with resource management functionality Paragon has enhanced its routing and scheduling software with the introduction of resource management functionality to help fleet managers better manage utilisation of all available drivers. The new functionality allows fleet operators to track drivers’ holidays, shift patterns and hours worked, automatically factoring all of this in to transport plans. With the driver shortage problem continuing to challenge transport operations, enhanced resource management is vital for fleets of all sizes.

Driver availability is just one of hundreds of parameters that a planner has to juggle when creating transport plans.

Planners are under pressure to take account of individual driver preferences such as shift times, break times and overnight assignments, all the while aiming for maximum efficiency across the transport operation. The new resource management functionality from Paragon will allow fleet managers to: Manage holiday entitlement and approval to avoid too many drivers being away at the same time Automatically generate advanced shift schedules to provide forward visibility and control Comply with working time limits at an individual driver level Track individual driver hours accumulated to avoid overtime Planners can now ensure delivery routes are efficient and make the best use of drivers and vehicles while factoring in drivers’ preferences. Furthermore, the planning process itself becomes more efficient. Planners can automatically allocate available drivers to a plan, removing the need for the transport office to spend time allocating drivers to routes. Total visibility of all drivers’ availability, captured in a single system that feeds in to the planning process, brings a reduction in planning time and eliminates the risk of human error. This represents a significant improvement over using paper-based or multiple software systems.

Building on the required skills functionality which is available as standard in Paragon’s routing and scheduling, fleet managers are also able to create their own list of driver skills such as qualified gas fitter or carpenter and the appropriate tools required for each job. Paragon’s routing software will then ensure that calls are only allocated to appropriately skilled drivers and that skilled resource is allocated appropriately.

“Our new resource management functionality allows fleet managers and planners to do more with less. At Paragon, we invest about a third of our turnover in research and development every year helping customers develop a continuous improvement process that solves real-world, everyday transport problems,” said William Salter, Managing Director of Paragon Software Systems. “With resource management functionality, you gain peace of mind that you are achieving maximum efficiency from all your available assets, including drivers.”

Krone present the ultimate in container carrier flexibility at MultiModal 2019 Krone is showing their ‘all-rounder’ Box Liner container carrier at this year’s MultiModal Show which, say the company, guarantees greater versatility and easier handling for operators in the UK and Ireland.

The versatile Krone Box Liner, sliding-bogie skeletal trailer is designed to carry 20’,30’,40’ and 45’ containers; two boxes at once or any standard sized tank. Quick-release twist locks also ensure fast and easy handling for tough, pick-up-and-drop container work.

Manufactured by Krone and designed in Germany with close involvement from the Krone UK sales team, the Box Liner comes in four colours and with Krone’s 10-year guarantee against corrosion perforation.

The Box Liner also comes with an optional telematics package for performance and location monitoring: Krone’s-own telematics technology enables operators to benefit from remote tyre pressure monitoring, mileage recording for maintenance intervals, empty or reduced load detection, braking system status and trailer location.

Additionally, an automatic notification can be given, to alert regarding ABS or EBS malfunctions and a further alert made to the customer if any remedial work has not been carried out within a given time frame.

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Collett deliver Eaton Socon substation transformer From Port Sutton Bridge, Lincolnshire to St. Neots, Cambridgeshire, our Team deliver a 170 Tonne Hyundai transformer to Eaton Socon Substation.

With the transformer arriving at Port Sutton Bridge our Team carried out all port services including stevedoring, lift plans, crane hire and CPA Contract Lift by mobile crane, discharging the 8.6m L x 4.91m W x 4.75m H cargo from the hold of the vessel to our Scheuerle girder bridge.

At 8am one April morning, under Lincolnshire Police and private escort, wheels began to roll. Having liaised with constabularies and authorities throughout the extensive planning, our Team ensured that all permits and notifications were in place ahead of the project. Alongside this, our Team issued advanced notifications to local residents and ensured pre-arranged parking restrictions along the entire length of West Bank Road, allowing the 66m long, 4.8m high loaded combination to safely exit Port Sutton Bridge. After performing the first of several contraflow manoeuvres, the convoy joined the A17 for onward transport.

Throughout the 78 mile route our Team travelled through Long Sutton, Holbeach, Spalding, Peterborough, Stilton and Alconbury before arriving late afternoon at the Eaton Socon Substation entrance. Taking into account the 42.5m rigid length of the vehicle, our Team undertook extensive swept path analysis and street furniture removal requirements to ensure safe passage of the convoy. With all this comprehensive preparation taking place ahead of the project the loaded girder bridge safely navigated the route, with additional circumnavigation and reversing manoeuvres employed at the highlighted pinch points.

Throughout the planning and delivery of the project our Team liaised closely with National Grid, Lincolnshire Police, local Authorities, Highways England and their agent Kier to ensure a seamless delivery. With all this in-depth planning in place, our Team expertly delivered the project ensuring the 170 Tonne cargo arrived at the Eaton Socon installation site for final installation.

Once at the site entrance, the pre-positioned trackway allowed for access to the substation grounds for delivery. With the girder bridge in position, the Collett Heavy Lift Team completed jacking & skidding operations to manoeuvre the 170 Tonne transformer to the awaiting plinth.

The 170 Tonne transformer will form part of the connection between the Eaton Socon and Little Barford Substations. The overall project will see equipment from the 1960's replaced which, in turn, will increase the capacity and help better secure the supply of electricity to homes and businesses in the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire areas.

Thermo King adds the power of connectivity to the T-Series Thermo King®, a leader in transport temperature control solutions for a variety of mobile applications and a brand of Ingersoll Rand, introduces the TK BlueBox connectivity technology to its T-Series range of self-powered transport refrigeration units.

Part of the Thermo King TracKing™ telematics offering, the TK BlueBox communication device can be accessed through the TracKing™ web portal, or through the TK Reefer and TK Notify mobile apps on a smartphone or Bluetooth®-enabled device. This allows fleet managers and drivers to remotely access vital unit data and get real-time notifications to ensure that the load is protected at all times and the unit is running at its most efficient. Drivers can monitor cargo temperatures and the reefer even when they are away from the vehicle during deliveries or on a break.

With this new solution on our T-Series range fleet managers and business owners will receive improved level of real time intelligence on the operation of their refrigerated vehicle. The TK BlueBox device gathers data from multiple sensors and transfers all data to the central TracKing™ platform over the air. This gives fleet managers the capability to see things like unit operating and temperature status or temperature set-point, all from one central location. If they see something out of the ordinary, they can instantly address the issue to avoid any negative impact to the load.

TK BlueBox communication device and Bluetooth® connectivity provides full, 24/7 visibility of the unit and load condition: · The TK BlueBox telematics system can be accessed remotely through a free TK Reefer app on smart phone or Bluetooth-enabled device. This provides two-way communication that allows real-time unit management and access to critical data to ensure that the load is protected at all times. · Bluetooth enables the users within the connection’s range to remotely manage defrost, pre-trip, set point and additional operating mode settings. · The unit can also be accessed and managed remotely from anywhere in the world through an internet connection as part of the Thermo King TracKing™ offering.

For more information about the TK BlueBox, TracKing™, and the TK Reefer app, please visit www.europe.thermoking.com.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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First new DAF ‘in the mix’ for Gareth A. Leese

After six years of successful operation with used DAF multi-axle vehicles, owner-driver Gareth A. Leese has taken delivery of his first new DAF CF 450 FAD Mixer 8x4. Supplied by DAF Dealer Imperial Commercials, the lightweight CF eightwheel mixer chassis is equipped with a Putzmeister 8.0 cubic metre capacity drum and equipment, although Leese ordinarily carries 7.5 cubic metres to enable a comfortable weight tolerance; even with the sleeper cab and extras such as Kelsa light bars.

The Stoke-on-Trent based operator works exclusively for nationwide construction materials supplier, Breedon.

Leese’s CF Mixer specification includes a Sleeper Cab, the top-rated, 450bhp MX-11 engine and an optional 16-speed manual gearbox. Further specification includes four-way CCTV recording and side-scanning to provide enhanced safety for vulnerable road users.

Kelsa light bars were supplied and fitted by Autostart in Stoke-on-Trent.

Capable of an 8.0 cubic metre drum capacity for 32-tonne GVW operation, DAF Trucks’ dedicated CF Mixer chassis boasts a weight-saving specification including lightweight single-reduction tandem axles, disc brakes all-round and a new, singlecircuit steering system.

“I am over-the-moon with the new CF Mixer,” said Gareth Leese, “it’s just a joy to drive; effortlessly smooth, super comfy in the cab. I’m really pleased with my decision to opt for the manual box, too. It’s great on the motorway, where I do a fair bit of work, but around town it just gives me that total control, that bit more flexibility.”

The owner-driver had for six years acquired used DAF vehicles, but, following a highly successful previous 12-months, found that a new acquisition would offer even greater productivity, particularly with respect to aftersales support.

“I have always had a fantastic relationship with Imperial Commercials, and especially the sales executive, Matt Durose,” added Leese, “I see them as a business partner rather than truck dealer. In six years, the only real reliability issue I suffered was with a broken crank-shaft, but Imperial dealt with it brilliantly – I really felt supported. My new truck comes with excellent R&M and Warranty back-up which will given me peace-of-mind for many years to come.”

Inaugural wedding-day job is the most important!

Despite the fulsome praise, Leese’s new DAF CF Mixer isn’t quite the greatest love in his life, but it must be a close run thing! For its very first job, the new CF Mixer was polished-up and adorned with ribbons to act as the ‘carriage’ for his recent wedding to Francesca.

Michelin expands truck tyre range

Michelin has expanded its popular X Multi T2 tyre range with the launch of four new 17.5” sizes, designed for low platform trailers, such as step frames, car transporters and double-decks.

The introduction of 215/75 R17.5, 235/75 R17.5, 245/70 R17.5 and 205/65 R17.5 tyres to the X Multi T2 range enables more fleets to benefit from Michelin’s latest generation technologies – with the tyres designed to offer the best combination of robustness, mileage and grip for predominantly regional missions.

Commenting, Chris Smith, Sales Director B2B UK and ROI at Michelin, says: “The Michelin’s new X continued expansion of the X Multi T2 range is a direct result of the more than €600 million Multi T2 we invest in research and development every year. truck tyres “These new tyres are the perfect fit for heavy-duty transport fleets where reliability, whatever the weather, is absolutely key.”

Innovation is at the heart of Michelin’s product development, and the new Michelin X Multi T2 fitments incorporate the latest Regenion technology; a self-regenerating tread pattern which includes hidden grooves that appear as the tread wears down. These extra grooves help to maintain high levels of grip, traction and safety throughout the tyre’s life.

The 215/75 R17.5, 235/75 R17.5 and the 245/70 R17.5 are available on the replacement market, and as original equipment by trailer manufacturers, with immediate effect. The 205/65 R17.5 are expected to follow in September 2019.

The new tyres are both regrooveable and retreadable.

For further information on the full Michelin commercial vehicle tyre range visit http://trucks.michelin.co.uk/

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MC Truck & Bus Portsmouth grows its refuse collection vehicle service and maintenance business

As an official sub-contractor workshop for Dennis Eagle, the long-established MC Truck & Bus dealership in Portsmouth has seen a significant increase in the past year in its servicing and contract business covering the Dennis Eagle product range, one of the U.K.’s most iconic specialist refuse collection vehicles.

“In the last 12 months we have seen an upturn in business from several local councils, due to the Volvo engine crossover with Dennis Eagle, matched to the extensive workshop facilities and skills that we have here in Portsmouth for the Dennis Eagle product. Even before Dennis Eagle started using the Volvo engines as standard, we have worked closely with them and their contract customers to provide the very best service. MC, as a long-term award-winning Volvo dealership, can really provide customers with Dennis vehicles a one-stop shop for their servicing and maintenance requirements, engine warranty repairs including the chassis and the body,” said Daniel Needham, general manager, MC Truck & Bus Portsmouth.

At its extensive premises in Copnor, Portsmouth, MC Truck & Bus operates an 8-bay workshop that can handle up to 16 vehicles at any one time. In addition to routine service and maintenance of all makes of trucks, MC also provides fabrication work for body repairs, brake testing and full diagnostics on all makes, together with the added facility of a 24-hour Volvo award winning mobile breakdown call out service.

Dennis Eagle Limited is the UK-based manufacturer of refuse and waste vehicles that is owned by Terberg RosRoca Group, Europe’s largest refuse collection vehicle manufacturer and MC Truck & Bus Portsmouth have been an authorised workshop for the marque since 2005.

Further information about the full range of services from MC Truck & Bus at Portsmouth can be viewed on the company’s website at https://www.mcgroupltd.co.uk/locations/portsmouth/

MANN+HUMMEL recognised by General Motors as a 2018 Supplier of the Year

MANN+HUMMEL was named a Supplier of the Year by General Motors during their 27th annual ‘Supplier of the Year’ awards ceremony held in Detroit in May. It is the 24th time MANN+HUMMEL has received the award.

“We hold our suppliers to a high bar,” said Steve Kiefer, GM senior vice president, Global Purchasing and Supply Chain.

“They went above and beyond to deliver the innovations and quality that will help us earn customers for life.”

Kurk Wilks, President and General Manager OEM at MANN+HUMMEL, accepted the award together with Bill Peers, Director Global Sales for GM. “General Motors is a very important longstanding customer for MANN+HUMMEL. We believe in their direction and remain deeply committed to aligning to their business priorities,” said Wilks. “To be recognized for our 24th Supplier of the Year is an honor and demonstrates the deep commitment each of us at MANN+HUMMEL have towards our longstanding partnership.”

More than half of the suppliers are repeat winners from 2017. The Supplier of the Year award winners were chosen by a global team of GM purchasing, engineering, quality, manufacturing and logistics executives.

Winners were selected based on performance criteria in Product Purchasing, Global Purchasing and Manufacturing Services, Customer Care and Aftersales, and Logistics.

GM recognized 133 of its best suppliers from From left to right: James Danahy, GM Executive Director, Global Functional Leader Chassis Engineering; Jerry Beemer, GM Director, Global Transmission Hardware Engineering; Kurk Wilks, 15 countries that have consistently exceeded President Original Equipment, MANN+HUMMEL; William Peers, Global Director Sales, GM’s expectations, created outstanding value or MANN+HUMMEL; David Drouillard, GM Executive Director, Engine, Transmission and Thermal Purchasing introduced innovations to the company.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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It would be a patent exercise in understatement to point out that the tenth-anniversary edition of Ireland’s premier truck show, Full of the Pipe, was a resounding success. Staged at Punchestown Racecourse over the weekend of June 8th-9th, the event exceeded everybody’s wildest expectations, much to the obvious delight of co-organiser Kevin Mulqueen.

he annual pilgrimage of truckers and trucking enthusiasts to Punchestown for Full of the Pipe Truckshow Ireland 2019 took place over the second weekend of June and a fantastic time was had by all who attended as trucks / trucking in Ireland was acknowledged and celebrated in suitable fashion.

Since its maiden outing in 2010, Full of the Pipe has evolved and blossomed into one of Europe’s leading truck shows, developing organically year on year into a true extravaganza, a not-to-be-missed date on the calendar. The organisers pushed the boat out even further in 2019, as it was the tenth staging of FOTP and they wished to mark the landmark date

T

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accordingly. The results were sensational … simply the greatest truck show these shores have ever borne witness to!

“I’m absolutely delighted,” reflected an exhausted but clearly vindicated Kevin Mulqueen, with the dust barely settled on the year’s showcase. “To be honest Colin [Hegarty, fellow organiser] and myself are overwhelmed by the whole show and the reaction to it.

“This was one of the toughest years to put it together. It was full-on. The amount of trucks that were there on the Friday alone, compared to previous years, was phenomenal. And they just kept coming, Even on the Sunday morning, they kept coming in and registering, just to be part of it. That’s what a show like this means to people and it was great to see such

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

passion from people.”

The time, energy and finances that Kevin and Colin have invested into making Full of the Pipe a reality since its humble inception has been inestimable.

Suffice to say, the rewards now being reaped as the trailblazing truck show goes from strength to strength are fully merited…

They came from all over. “We had a massive influx of trucks from Scotland and the UK,” Kevin confirms. “The furthest-travelled truck was from Sweden and we also had trucks over from France, which was great to see.

“Trade was up for the dealers, which is important, and they all upped their game with hospitality trailers and they went the extra mile to look after people. Kelsa and

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others came over from the UK and it’s brilliant to see these companies showing an interest and getting involved. It all adds to the weekend.”

Momentum is growing. The target for 2019 was to get 1,500 trucks registered but this figure was substantially exceeded. At a conservative estimate, approximately 1,700 trucks made their way to Punchestown Racecourse – the

County Kildare venue which has hosted Full of the Pipe for three years running now. The switch has been justified as previous venues simply did not have the capacity to accommodate the implosive growth that FOTP has enjoyed since 2017: “The beauty of Punchestown is that you can extend it to 2,000 or 3,000 if you need to – the ground is there,” says

Kevin. “It’s purpose built and that’s the reason we moved there, so we wouldn’t be restricted. We maxed out at 700 in Cavan, so we had to move if we wanted to grow to this level.”

While everyone else just turns up for the weekend, Kevin and Colin preoccupy themselves with Full of the Pipe for the best part of an entire year getting things ready. Either side of the weekend of the

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event itself, they are flat-out for literally a week. Surely they are exhausted?

“Colin is the man on the ground and I handle the media and phone calls and stuff like that. It’s relentless, your head would be fried. The thing with social media is everyone can get to you so it never stops. People will find a way of contacting you and you have to deal with them. There’s a lot of people to deal with.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m happy to do it and it’s all part of the show – we like to

00

accommodate everybody if we can – but it’s full-on.

“It’s all worth it in the end, though. It was a fantastic weekend and people were great. The public were fantastic and there was great trade over the two days, so everyone was happy. We also got the opportunity once again to donate some money to our chosen charities and that’s another very important and rewarding aspect of the show.”

Already, the mind has inevitably turned

to Full of the Pipe 2020! “It’s full steam ahead but we’re going to chill out for a bit first. It was a hectic year and it was intense and gruelling. We have a duty of care to the people on site during the event so you don’t get a lot of sleep. At a truck show, people will drink beer and they’ll honk their horns – it’s all part of it – but you have to try to keep it toned down as much as you can.

“It was a phenomenal weekend, all in all. The turnout and the atmosphere were fantastic and the weather was good to us, too, even though heavy rain had been forecast, so we were very lucky in that regard.”

As well as being graced by an increased number of trucks, the quality of the vehicles at Full of the Pipe is also rising exponentially with each passing lap of the sun. “The trucks were magnificent,” Kevin attests. “The restoration side of it in the vintage and classic trucks is extraordinary. The standard and presentation of the trucks is second to none. It’s phenomenal what the drivers do to get their trucks ready.

They spend a lot of time and money and late nights to bring their trucks up to that standard.

“And you can see it. Every truck is washed and polished over and over again and the tyres are dressed – you

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can see the work that’s been going on behind the scenes and you can see that it didn’t take a few days to get any of the trucks ready. It takes a lot of time. And it’s great for the businesses who are involved in helping to prepare the trucks … there’s a clear knock-on effect and it’s great for trading people.

“I’d like to thank the truckers, the traders, the sponsors, our wives and the people on the ground who put in so

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much work. I really can’t fault the people on the ground for their invaluable help over the weekend. I can’t thank my wife, Barbara, and Colin’s wife, Patricia, enough for what they do to support us.

They are the backbone behind us. They look after hospitality and register the trucks and meet and greet everybody.

They deal with the public and help out an awful lot. They enjoy the banter and meeting people, many of whom they’d

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

remember from the previous year. I know my wife and her sister, Jackie, look forward to it and we’d be lost without their help.”

Hosting a show of this magnitude obviously incurs a massive financial risk? “It’s a phenomenal risk, especially since we are now at Punchestown Racecourse. You really have to promote the show and put the work in.

“While we have a big trucking industry in Ireland, there are still only certain people who will come to these shows and you have to reach out to them and accommodate them. We rely heavily on the public to come to the show and cover our costs. And these costs go up every year to secure the venue.

“As the show grows, we also have to bring in more resources. This year, we started on the Wednesday and finished up on the Tuesday. We both work full time, too, so it’s demanding. And the expectation is there for something new and better every year so we have to go back and see what we can introduce to improve the show.”

It all sounds draining but, thankfully, ten Full of the Pipes in, there’s little sign of Kevin and Colin losing any of their energy or enthusiasm: “Once we cover our costs and everybody has an enjoyable weekend, everyone is safe

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and goes home happy and the charities benefit, then that’s all we want,” Kevin concludes.

“The response we got this year from companies with trade stands and displays was phenomenal. They really bought into the spirit of the occasion and

00

they gave people coffees or goodie bags or something. Everybody got something.

People are great in the way they show their support and you can see the appreciation from the public.

“The key now is to keep the momentum going and hopefully find some additional

sponsors going forward to reduce the financial risk to ourselves.”

Judging by the reaction the show had in 2019, Full of the Pipe looks like an increasingly sound investment from a potential sponsor’s perspective!

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The company is based in Drumshanbo Business Park, Co Leitrim

CATERING FOR ALL YOUR ADVERTISING NEEDS Based in Co Leitrim, Sign Warehouse has enjoyed a steady rise since becoming a limited company some 13 years ago with clients all around the country. Irish Trucker found out more about this thriving business from its Office Manager Catherine Kelly.

019 has marked a busy year so far for Sign Warehouse Ltd and the plan in Drumshanbo is to keep the good times rolling as business continues to grow for the company.

Set-up by business partners Cormac Rogers and Frank Mulvey, the firm has since enjoyed a successful rise which has seen it gain notable clients such as ESB, Heatmerchants Group, O’Haras and Só Hotels along the way.

Now the company employs five full-time

2 30

staff from its base at Drumshanbo Business Park, where Catherine Kelly is the Office Manager for the business.

Catherine recently took time from what has become an increasingly hectic schedule in recent months to tell Irish Trucker what the business is all about.

“We were first established in 2004 and became a limited company in 2006,” explained Catherine. “I’ve been with the company since 2007. Cormac Rogers and Frank Mulvey are the directors and have worked extensively in the industry

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Signwarehouse Ltd Unit 1, Drumshanbo Business Park, Carrick Road, Drumbshanbo, Co Leitrim E-mail: greatsigns@signwarehouse.ie Phone: 071 964 0028 Fax: 071 964 0695

sign warehouse Designed_Layout 1 18/06/2019 09:45 Page 2

ESB are one of the company’s main clients

for many years now.”

Both founders began working in the industry after finishing college and in 2004 they saw an opportunity to form their own business in what was a growing market.

Today, Sign Warehouse uses the latest technology in its production facility and has been innovative in how it goes about business ensuring that the company offers the customer a wide choice of design and signage options.

The reputation of the business has grown on a daily basis because of the quality of its product which has helped to gain the confidence of clients.

The creative work of Sign Warehouse combined with an honest and genuine work ethic and attention to detail has seen the business flourish nationwide,

and the list clientele now includes some of the largest retailers in the country.

“The ESB and O’Haras and Heatmerchants Group became our clients in 2006/2007,” Catherine outlined.

“We’re also doing work for McMorrow Haulage, National Automation Ltd, Archway Products in Carrick-onShannon and Cawley Commercials. We sign write all of Lock Up Alarms fleet of vehicles in Manorhamilton as well.

“On average, we could be doing up to five vehicles a week on top of the fleets we’re always working on, so things are very busy for us at the moment as we are also starting the signwriting of 65 number of the ESB Electric vehicles.”

It’s a far cry from when the company first started out in ’04 with both Cormac

On average, the company are working on up to five vehicles a week

and Frank looking to get things off the ground.

Back then, Sign Warehouse was based in the Drumshanbo Enterprise Centre and, as its trade blossomed year on year, 2008 saw the company acquiring its own business premise.

The new business unit was designed to facilitate the latest technology for the company’s expert design team and the manufacturing end of the business – which has allowed Sign Warehouse to expand into other areas of the market.

“Retailers, Schools, Factory outlets and the Hospitality business are other aspect of our business,” said the Office Manager.

“McDonagh Hotels (SO Hotels) are a newly acquired client of ours, we are also the main contractor for the Hidden

Sign Warehouse uses the latest technology in its production facility

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Hearing outlets throughout Ireland along with the Esquires Coffee Houses in the country.

Heat Merchants and Tubs & Tiles are also on the list of Sign Warehouse’s nationwide clients and the hope is to continue to grow. We see the business at the moment in as good a state as it’s ever been.

“It’s looking really good,” Catherine stated. “We had a great year in 2018 and in the

first six months of 2019 our percentage of growth has gone up.

“Unlike a lot of business in our market we did not go through a recession in 2009, we were very lucky in that aspect. A lot of the success we’ve had with our clients is down to the personal relationship and the trust they have in us to delivery all their requirements. As an example the ESB contract

Some of the fine work carried out by Sign Warehouse

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which we acquired in 2011 if they contact us looking for work to be carried out urgently we’d never let them down.”

That dedication to clientele has clearly stemmed from the company’s leadership as Cormac and Frank have always possessed the drive and energy together with a creative staff that are dedicated to supply a cost effective product to suit the needs of the client.

The range of design and product covers a wide fiscal area, catering for all from simple inexpensive solutions to high-end technically advanced products. In short, no brief is too complex or too simple for the company to cater for.

Sign Warehouse can offer you the following: Attractive Logo design for your business; a team that will work with you to produce a design to your specification

and satisfaction; Vehicle Graphics and signage including full wraps designed to make your vehicle stand out from the crowd; Signage for all retail and business outlets are our speciality the Sign Warehouse team will

work with you to produce a sign that reflects your needs, and the product/service you desire.

Sign Warehouse also provides all types of custom made banners including popup banners for exhibition and

conferences and any other special occasion.

They design and produce all types of club stickers and can cater for all your advertising needs no job is too big or too small.

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Jim Proudfoot set up the business 50-years ago

PROUDFOOT MOTORS SET THE STANDARD FOR OVER 50 YEARS They say success in business can be gauged by longevity and to this end, Proudfoot Motors are certainly up there with the best when it comes to providing loyal and efficient service to their long standing customer base.

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Contact Details: Proudfoot Motors Beechmount Home Park Navan, County Meath Phone: 046 9096100 Email: service@proudfootmotors.ie Web: www.proudfootmotors.ie

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Proudfoot Motors is located in Beechmount Home Park

stablished in 1969 as Nobber Motors, this family run business has never shirked a challenge and four years after undergoing a massive transformation by relocating the business from Nobber to Beechmount Home Park in Navan, the company is still going from the strength to strength as they celebrate their 50th anniversary.

The move and rebranding was always going to be a huge change for them and obviously there are calculated risks that go along with that but Thomas Proudfoot revealed to us that they haven’t looked back since the move.

Their state of the art facilities include a showroom and waiting room that you are made feel at home in, as well as a modern workshop that stocks a wide range of parts and modern equipment used for repairs and service work.

As CVRT testers, they have three lanes, two for light commercials and one for heavy commercials, with four experienced testers carrying out the work.

“The business has gone from strength to strength since the move. We are still main Isuzu and Saab dealers and there is a great selection of models on the market at the moment,” said Thomas.

“The main core of our work would be the in the workshop and the CVRT testing which is busy all the time. We would have a lot of repeat custom ranging from people bringing in their cars to haulage firms.”

The CVRT Commercial Test Centre in Beechmount Home Park carries out annual inspections on behalf of the Road Safety Authority on all types of light and heavy commercial vehicles – vans, trucks, trailers, jeeps, minibuses, coaches, camper vans etc. Embracing stateof-the-art technology, the modern testing equipment used by professional, certified and experienced

E

Thomas Proudfoot is General Manager at Proudfoot Motors

technicians is compatible with the latest EU regulations.

Proudfoot Motors provides sales, service and CVRT testing from 8:30am until 5pm Monday to Friday and on Wednesdays they stay open until 8pm to ensure more flexibility for their customers.

“We can also service vehicles on the same day as the test and carry out any repairs required to ensure that the vehicle passes. When a vehicle fails initially, it is possible to have the necessary repairs carried out on the same day.”

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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As CVRT testers, Proudfoot Motors have three lanes, two for light commercials and one for heavy commercials,

Proudfoot Motors are a main Isuzu and Saab dealer

Their parts department stock a comprehensive range of original Saab and Isuzu parts along with various other brands. Using their electronic parts catalogue, they can conveniently identify any part within a matter of seconds. From new and second-hand sales to servicing, repairs, parts and testing, a personal touch is provided at all times and excellent customer relations are guaranteed across all aspects of the business.

“This is a family run business, my father Jim set up the business 50 years ago and he is still involved today, while my sister Marie is the

36

Accounts Manager.”

Proudfoot Motors are a Stoneridge tachograph fitting centre, capable of fitting, repairs and calibration as well as vehicle dimension plates and speed limiter calibration.

When it comes to commercial vehicle testing, Proudfoot Motors puts their many years of experience to good use at its stunning facility.

“We started testing in Nobber, as Nobber Motors, in 1990 so we have gathered a lot of experience over the years. In conjunction with the RSA’s overhaul of the testing network, we took the opportunity to relocate and reinvent our business. It is a decision

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

we are delighted to say has gone very well.”

As stated the CVRT testing lanes are always busy and this part of the business is located away from the workshop so that the work can be carried out in an efficient manner.

“The testing area is a stand-alone area and we also have extra workshop facilities to carry out any repairs or general servicing on any type of vehicle, from a car to a truck.

“We accept online bookings for CVRT Tests and have noticed a great increase in online bookings with 10% of all tests completed booked online and 50% of those paid online also.”

You can book your CVRT online at https://www.proudfootmotors.ie/crvtcommercial-test.php.

Looking towards the future, Thomas is confident that they can build the business even more and increase their customer base.

“We would like to sustain what we have and also to increase our business as we are centrally located now in the county town. We are the only commercial test centre in either Navan, Kells or Trim.

“Commercial vehicle testing has always been busy here and it feeds work into your garage as well. One complements the other and we are a one-stop shop providing the full solution, including new and used vehicle sales.

“Many customers are leaving vehicles in for test without appointments and we try and fit them in, if others cancel at short notice.

Customers should also be aware that they do not need to wait with their vehicle, so they can drop off and collect later if desired.”

The location of Proudfoot Motors makes it easy for their customers to access the premises without any great delays.

“The real beauty of this test centre is its accessibility. We are close to the town centre yet there won’t be any issues with HGVs getting in an out as we are in an industrial estate with total ease of access.”

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LOUGHRAN COMMERCIALS: THE ADBLUE SPECIALISTS Diesel engines are now required to meet tough NOx standards to help control air pollution. The preferred method involves injecting a high purity fluid called Diesel Exhaust Fluid (AdBlue) into the exhaust system. AdBlue works seamlessly with absolutely no effect on the performance of the engine - the driving experience will remain as enjoyable and as efficient as ever. rucks have had systems in place to allow their engines run AdBlue for many years. However, these systems have not been used for many years, but a change in the law sees them being reintroduced.

Many have ceased or are just not working over time and it costs money to replace them or get them working again, but Tyrone based Loughran Commercials Ltd offer a service that is unrivalled on the island of Ireland.

Particulate filters can get blocked up with soot, oil and other deposits that are created when diesel is burnt. This will result in poor engine performance, higher fuel consumption and ultimately pricey repairs.

You can avoid this happening to your vehicle by having your particulate filter cleaned and regenerated by Loughran Commercials.

Working predominantly with Scania trucks, Patrick Loughran runs the business which sees them specialise in AdBlue and Diesel particulate filter (Dpf) cleaning services.

Established in 2003, Loughran Commercials has really focused on those two services over the course of the last eight years and Patrick revealed that they have invested heavily in the business to make it the success it is today.

So what does AdBlue do? “When your vehicle is utilising AdBlue, the Nitrogen Oxide produced by your diesel engine will be converted into nitrogen and steam. This considerably reduces the emissions of harmful Nitrogen Oxides, a considerable source of atmospheric pollution,” said Patrick.

“AdBlue is a harmless substance, and very easy to use. It is not a fuel, nor a fuel additive - it is a simple but effective high purity urea solution. It must be used in a dedicated tank on your vehicle, and refilled when required. It is essential that you refill prior to depletion, as your vehicle will not run without it.”

AdBlue is needed for any commercial vehicle equipped

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Patrick and the team will attend a call out anywhere

Loughran Commercials specialise in AdBlue and (Dpf) cleaning services

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Corr Brothers Ltd Wishing Continued Success To Loughran Commercials 101 Ballyards Road, Armagh BT60 3NS Tel:+44 (0) 2837 525245

www.corrbrothers.co.uk

Best Wishes To Loughran Commercials, From

RELIABLE BULK TRANSPORTATION IRELAND - UK- EUROPE

9 Kilnadore Road, Cushendall, Co. Antrim BT44 0SG T:+44 (0) 2821771473 F:+44 (0) 2821771473 E:john@moyletransport.com

www.moyletransport.com

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology to comply with emission standards Euro IV, V and VI in Europe.

“A lot of the systems on trucks have not worked for many years and that is where we come in. To replace them with main dealers costs a lot of money, but for a fraction of the price, we will get you up and running again.”

Using the most up-to-date cleaning technology Loughran Commercials have been at the forefront in the DPF Cleaning industry for over eight years.

“I’ve invested heavily in the business. We brought in advanced diagnostics, which helps us find the problems a lot easier and this helps us get through our work load quicker and more efficiently.”

In the U.K, VOSA are clamping down on those not using AdBlue and Patrick advised any Irish haulier operating in the U.K to ensure that they have their vehicles running properly.

Patrick added that his services are being used all over the country as their reputation for providing quality work now precedes them.

“We would have customers all over Ireland.

The systems shut down around 2008 and they have been derelict since, but now they are needed again and there is a huge demand for our services.

“Scania is what we look after all the time. It is a complex system and to be honest it is a miracle it works at all, but we have the experience to sort out any issue.”

Loughran Commercials are trusted by leading fleet and leasing companies to keep their vehicles on the road. They have the solutions for their customers at the right price.

“We are confident that we can get you going again. I was called over to a breakdown on the Edinburgh bypass one time, where the pistons were gone in the engine of a truck. I had to basically strip the engine and at one stage the police pulled up and had to step over the sump to ask me would I be long. I told them no, but little did they realise that half the engine was lying on the road, but we managed to get the truck going again.”

From their purpose-built facility in Cookstown, Loughran Commercials have a state of the art workshop that Patrick has put a lot of time and investment into.

“We have diagnostics to cater for Scania and DAF trucks. I saw a niche in the market a few years back to focus on this service and we are the only garage in Northern Ireland that does this type of work.”

Patrick has James Magennis working alongside him and he has an endless knowledge of trucks, while apprentice James Quinn is getting the best of training.

The company have diagnostics to cater for Scania and DAF trucks

Loughran Commercials work predominantly with Scania trucks

Loughran commercials have two breakdown vans on the road and if they need a complex vehicle recovery they turn to the experience of Armagh based Corr Brothers.

Business is good at the moment as Patrick stated that last Christmas saw them get through 26 trucks in a short period.

“Every truck that comes in has a different issue, very rarely that two jobs are the same.

You could be 20 minutes at a job or 20hrs, but we will get the vehicle back on the road, that we can guarantee.”

Some of the leading fleet operators depend on Patrick to keep their vehicles on the road

Loughran Commercials Ltd 18 Dunnamore Road, Cookstown Co Tyrone BT80 9NR Tel: +44 7786 710268

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Lavery Transport continues to deliver the goods

LAVERY TRANSPORT CELEBRATES 35 YEARS IN BUSINESS Based in Portadown, Co. Armagh, Lavery Transport Ltd has been a leading provider of road haulage and distribution solutions throughout Ireland and the UK for 35 years. Emma Lavery explains more about the successful family-run business. ounded by the late Charlie Lavery in 1984, Lavery Transport Ltd continues to go from strength to strength under the direction of his daughters Emma and Nicola, and son Niall. His wife Rosaleen is also a director,

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but isn’t involved in the day-to-day running of the business.

“It’s a real family affair,” Emma says.

“Nicola and I are both based in the office, while Niall is on the road. I actually drove myself for six years. Our uncle Bernard Mullen also works in the office.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Ethel Bryars works in the office with us and while she isn’t part of the family, she might as well be! We have 30 staff in total, with over 20 of them being drivers.

“Our father, who passed away in 2012, grew up on a farm before buying his first lorry and starting from there. He built up

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The Laverys run 20 Volvo artics along with one Scania artic and three Scania rigids

One of the trucks on the famous Harland & Wolff site in Belfast

the business to what it is today and we’re committed to not only keeping it going, but to growing it. The transport business is all we know.”

The company has grown from just one rigid vehicle on cross-border distribution to a current fleet of 24 trucks and 50 curtain-side trailers, providing an overnight service to most regions in Ireland, England and the Scotland. The Laverys run 20 Volvo artics along with one Scania artic and three Scania rigids.

The curtain-siders are a mixture of SDC

and Montracon, several of which are equipped with sliding roofs.

Most of the vehicles in the modern and always immaculately turned out fleet are ex-demo.

“We usually buy our trucks from Dennison Commercials and Volvo UK. We have forged a strong relationship with them down the years. Maintenance, servicing and repairs are carried out inhouse by our qualified mechanics,” Emma explains.

All of the vehicles are fitted with GPS tracking devices, which provide added peace of mind for the customer. The drivers employed are reliable, highlyskilled, professional, experienced and enjoy a great rapport with customers. All drivers are CPC covered.

Lavery Transport Ltd prides itself on the superior service it provides to new and existing customers. Services provided include groupage throughout Ireland and the UK, next-day deliveries in Ireland, two-day deliveries in Scotland and England, next-day deliveries to Scotland on request and tail lift collections / deliveries when required throughout Ireland. In addition, the company is fully licenced to cover waste collection in Ireland and UK, and fully covered under RHA 1998 goods in transit insurance and liability. As part of a nationwide network of distributors, Lavery Transport Ltd can deliver your goods quickly and

Lavery Transport is a leading provider of road haulage and distribution solutions in Ireland and the UK

seamlessly.

One of the haulage firm’s strongest selling points is its location just off the M1

Lavery Transport Ltd 14 Derryvore Lane, Seagoe, Portadown, Co. Armagh BT63 5RS Telephone: 028 38350231 Fax: 028 38 368258 Email: info@laverytransport.co.uk Web: www.laverytransport.co.uk

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Lavery Transport prides itself on the superior service it provides to new and existing customers

Motorway. The Seagoe depot is just 30 minutes from Belfast and less than two hours from Dublin. Facilities at the state-ofthe-art depot include a purpose-built office, a garage with capacity for two units and a 45ft trailer, a large secure concrete yard with parking capacity for a full fleet and 5,000sq ft of warehouse storage.

Lavery Transport Ltd specialises in all types of haulage and

MARKEY TYRES

Car • Truck • Agricultural • Industrial

14 Derryvore Lane, Seagoe, Portadown, County Armagh, BT63 5RS

P 028 3833 6676 M 07818 095 121 E gerardmarkey@btconnect.com

transport services. “We move everything and anything. We cater for all of our customers’ needs,” Emma explains.

The company has a long and loyal customer-base which includes the likes of Bord na Mona, WRC Recycling, Thornton’s Recycling, Panda Waste, SAM Mouldings and W Howard. It transports peat for Bord na Mona from the midlands to garden centres and home improvement stores across Scotland. Lavery

Best wishes & continued success to Lavery Transport from

www.markeytyres-portadown.co.uk

Best Wishes To Lavery Transport

FREIGHT FOWARDING SPECIALIST PROVIDING • DAILY IRISH SERVICES • DAILY EUROPEAN SERVICES • IMPORT & EXPORT OCEAN FREIGHT • REPRESENTATION WORLD WIDE Offering quality & reliability with a personal touch ensuring that when our customers demand service, WE DELIVER Albion Mills, Albion Rd, Greengates, Bradford, West Yorkshire BD10 9TQ T: 01 274 623270 F: 01274 620961 E: enquiries@cmilogistics.co.uk www.cmilogistics.co.uk

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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All of the vehicles are fitted with GPS tracking devices, which provide added peace of mind for the customer

Transport Ltd also hauls recycled waste to and from WRC Recycling’s facility in Inchinnan, Scotland. WRC Recycling work with various clients, buying and processing waste from them and / or selling basic materials from recycled waste. They also undertake various haulage and broker tasks regarding waste management.

Furthermore, the company distributes MDF products for SAM Mouldings in Antrim and W Howard in Kill, Co. Kildare.

Both are leading manufacturers of MDF mouldings and profiles.

Brexit is a major issue for companies such as Lavery Transport Ltd who trade on both sides of the border but for Emma, it’s very much a case of ‘wait and see’.

“We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it. Brexit might never happen. If it does, we’ll adjust accordingly. We’d like to expand, but there is too much uncertainty at the moment. We’ll see what happens.”

Lavery Transport Ltd has

come a long way in 35 years by providing a first-class service to all of its clients. Committed to offering a cost-effective and wide and flexible range of transport solutions, this exceptional family business is certain to be around for many more years to come.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our customers for their continued support and loyalty,” Emma concludes.

The company was founded by the late Charlie Lavery in 1984 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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NO.1 IN MUNSTER FOR TRUCK AND TRAILER DIAGNOSTICS, REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE

From their Cork base, Jay Commercials Ltd. – renowned far and wide as braking systems specialists – provide commercial vehicle owners and operators throughout Munster with unrivalled fleet maintenance and repair services, including diagnostics, chassis repair and modification, CVRT preparation and breakdown recovery. Irish Trucker had a chat with director John McCarthy to find out more. regular visitor to Full of the Pipe, John McCarthy, who runs Jay Commercials in conjunction with his business partner Dominic McCarthy (formerly of DMC Commercials Ltd.), could accurately be described as a true trucker, having worked with commercial vehicles all of his working life.

The Cork man was only 16 when he began serving his apprenticeship and, almost 40 years later, now oversees one of Munster’s busiest commercial vehicle diagnostics, maintenance and repair centres.

“I started out on my own doing

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maintenance and repair work in 1992 and then formed Jay Commercials Ltd. in the early ‘noughties,” he reflects.

John and Dominic joined forces in 2003. Since then, from their state-of-theart secure facility at Ballycurreen, they have forged a stellar reputation for providing customers with a comprehensive range of first-class services at the best-possible price.

At present, full-time employment is generated for a team of ten and business is extremely brisk. “We’re very busy here at the moment,” John confirms. “Our core business is commercial vehicle maintenance and repairs and we also sell some trucks as well as doing a bit of

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Jay Commercials Ltd., Unit 9, Ballycurreen Industrial Estate, Kinsale Road, Cork.

Tel: 021 4312395 Email: info@jaycommercials.com Web: jaycommercials.com

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Fittingly, the Jay Commercials fleet always looks pristine

contract hire and spot hire.

Recognised as one of Cork’s leading braking system specialists, Jay Commercials has been an authorised service partner for WABCO, Haldex and KNORR-BREMSE for the best part of two decades. From their wellappointed workshop at Ballycurreen Industrial Estate on the Kinsale Road – which is stocked with the latest diagnostic equipment and tools, manned by an experienced team of highly-trained technicians – they are also service partners for BPW axles and suspensions as well as an approved repair agent for SDC Trailers and Zepro Tail Lifts.

Jay Commercials have also recently

taken on a new service partnership with IMS – the sole distributor in Ireland of VSE steering systems for trailers. “VSE is a Dutch company that has developed an intelligent electrohydraulic steering system for milk tankers and bulk feed trailers; our technicians are trained and authorised to provide specialist repairs on their steering systems,” John notes.

Enjoying partnerships with so many major players in the industry, Jay Commercials is clearly held in the highest regard by vehicle and equipment manufacturers.

“The service partnerships and repair agencies that we have secured are not just something we picked up last

Diagnostics, chassis repair and modification, CVRT preparation and breakdown recovery are all offered

by Jay Commercials

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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RIVERSTICk MOTORS LTD. H.G.V. & L.G.V. Cvrt Test Centre

APPROVED TACHOGRAPH FITTING & REPAIR STATION APPROVED ROAD SPEED LIMITER STATION NSAI Approved Test Centre

Specialising In TACHOGRAPH REPAIRS & CALIBRATION

SPECIAL OFFER

Stoneridge SE 5000 Exakt DUO 2 Digital Tachograph with 2 year Unlimited Mileage Warranty Installed & Calibrated To Any Make Of Vehicle €650 + VAT Riverstick, Co. Cork

Tel: (021) 4771362 Email: riverstickindustries@gmail.com'

Wishing continued success to Jay Commercials

jay commercials Designed_Layout 1 17/06/2019 15:23 Page 4

week,” John continues. “We’ve built strong working relationships with these companies over the years and we are fully committed to upskilling to ensure that our service levels are maintained at the highest possible level.

“As a business, we have a good few strings to our bow. It’s not just one thing that keeps the doors open but a combination of many things.”

To consistently deliver industryleading commercial vehicle diagnostic, repair and maintenance solutions to truck, trailer and van owners across Cork and Munster, significant investment in tools, equipment, software and personnel is a prerequisite…

“We’re continually investing in diagnostic equipment and the facility itself. The equipment and software are updated regularly and you simply have to invest to stay in the game. If you are not prepared to invest, then you will not be able to keep up with the technology that’s being used in new vehicles.

“We’ve installed a full test lane facility for brake roller testing so that we can carry out twelve-week periodic inspections as laid out by the RSA and we also do quite a bit of preparatory work for the CVRT tests.”

Indeed, over the years, nay decades, Jay Commercials have developed an enviable reputation as truck and trailer braking systems specialists, although they can of course provide a full range of servicing and repair solutions. Their versatility and attention to detail has seen them build up a steady flow of repeat business.

“We have a core customer base of fleet owners who we work for on a regular basis, one of whom I’ve been dealing with for

The well-appointed workshop at Ballycurreen Industrial Estate is stocked with the latest diagnostic equipment and tools

25 years now. We pride ourselves on our ability to establish longstanding relationships with people, which comes on the back of providing a good service,” John states.

“Service is our main priority and if somebody is in trouble then we will strive to look after them as quickly as possible, especially in a breakdown situation. We have two breakdown vehicles and three service vans which we make available to

Jay Commercials have two breakdown vehicles and three service vans which are available to customers around the clock

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Best Wishes To Jay Commercials, From

SALES • SERVICE GARAGE EQUIPMENT

Glanmire, Co. Cork e: info@lifteq.ie | www.lifteq.ie

Patrick O’Leary - 087-9928963 Jim Murphy - 087- 6572067 Best Wishes To Jay Commercials From

Cork’s No1 Stop Shop For All Your Tyres & Expert Vehicle Repairs/ Maintenance Unit 5 , Ballycureen Industrial Estate, Airport Road, Cork (Behind Musgraves Cash & Carry) Tel: 021 - 432 2780

www.costplustyres.com Email: costplustyres@gmail.com Best Wishes To Jay Commercials, From

COMMERCIAL DIESEL AND ELECTRICAL Importers & Distributors of Commercial Vehicle Components Irish distributors for the following market leading brands

CDE are looking for distributors for the AS brand Carrigtwohill, Co Cork

E: commercialdiesel@eircom.net

Web: www.crowleycleaning.ie

Tel: (021) 488 3780

www.cdecomponents.ie

Contact: Tel: 021 4962288 Mob: 086 8324844

Address: Unit 3 South Link Park, Ballycurreen, Cork. T12 VW42 Wishing continued success to Jay Commercials

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Jay Commercials consistently deliver industry-leading commercial vehicle diagnostic, repair and maintenance solutions to truck, trailer and van owners across Cork and Munster.

our customers around the clock.

“We cover all of Munster and, if a customer is stuck anywhere in Ireland, we will respond accordingly.

For example, we’ve gone out at night to Dublin and Galway to assist our customers.

“People want service and we know our customers well at this stage, so we look after them to the best of our ability.”

John confirms that things have changed dramatically from when he started working with commercial vehicles as a teenager. Is it difficult to keep abreast of the ever-evolving technology going into vehicles? “It’s challenging but you have to constantly upskill yourself in all the new systems, purchase the latest diagnostic equipment and maintain your standards at the level expected from your service partners and customers.

“We are poles apart from where we started off. There were no laptops or mobile phones back then … a laptop is now an integral part of any toolkit.

I started off with a cantilever tool box and you could more or less do any work on a truck from that when I was serving my apprenticeship.

“It’s a completely unrecognisable

Unrivalled fleet maintenance and repair services are provided across Munster.

landscape now and the strides that have been made are amazing. The road stability systems found in trailers now and the safety systems in trucks and trailers are unbelievable.

EBS breaking systems are just phenomenal today.”

As a truck enthusiast, John makes the annual pilgrimage to Full of the Pipe every year and 2019 was no different. The Cork man took in the 10th anniversary edition of Ireland’s biggest truck show, travelling to Punchestown along with his three sons. “The three lads are all into trucks and we decided to go up for the weekend,” he concludes. “It’s nice to take some time out, meet some like-minded people and socialise a bit.”

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Every consignment delivered securely, professionally and on time

STUNNING FLEET, STELLAR SERVICE 50

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“We do the servicing and 12 week checks ourselves.” - Jamie McCarthy

For a quarter of a century, Jas McCarthy Transport have been providing exceptional haulage services from their base in Carrigtwohill, County Cork, using a magnificent fleet of trucks and trailers, which is regularly replenished.

Irish Trucker caught up with Jamie McCarthy – son of founder / proprietor Jimmy – to find out more about this outstanding family-run operation. he fleet is simply breathtaking. That’s the first thing that strikes you when you turn your mind to County Cork headquartered Jas McCarthy Transport. Operating one of the finest-looking and most finely-tuned fleets on the island, the renowned family business provides a level of service that’s simply second to none – every consignment delivered securely, professionally and on time, be it by tanker, tipper or tautliner..

A rigorous pre-emptive replenishment / upgrading programme ensures that all units in the steadily expanding fleet are firing on all cylinders at all times, resulting in optimal customer satisfaction. This commitment to setting and maintaining the highest standards by pairing the best equipment with experienced and dedicated personnel has seen Jas McCarthy Transport go from strength to strength over the past two and a half decades and all the indications suggest that – in partnership with key client Irish Distillers – the company will continue to thrive for many more years to come.

The genesis of the business dates back to 1994 when founder Jimmy McCarthy set up as an owner-driver. The Cork man

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took on his first employee in 2002 who remains with them to this day. Jimmy now oversees a team of nine, including his son Jamie.

A period of expansion is currently being enjoyed. Last year, the fleet was bolstered with the addition of brand-new DAF and Volvo trucks - the former from Cork Truck Services, the latter from McCarthy Commercials in Watergrasshill.

Investment has continued into the current calendar year, with a new Volvo FH 500 Globetrotter XL joining the tenstrong truck fleet in July, Jimmy and Jamie also having taken delivery of a pair of 2019 Montracon tautliners in January.

These trailers are built to EN 12642 XL European Load containment standard and come in at 4.625 metres high. Jas McCarthy were delighted with the finish and service they received from Montracon, while OMC Signs did a wonderful job adding the new company logo to the back doors of the new tautliners.

All work is carried out for Irish Distillers, predominantly carrying tanker loads of whiskey from Midleton to Dublin, where the produce is bottled and exported through Dublin Port to 130 markets

worldwide.

Irish Distillers is Ireland’s leading supplier of spirits and wines and produces the world’s most well-known and successful Irish whiskeys, led by Jameson. The fact that Jas McCarthy Transport is the transportation partner of such an internationally-renowned company speaks volumes for the level of customer service provided!

Every load is precious and the McCarthys leave no stone unturned in ensuring that it gets to its destination safely and on time. “We run a modern fleet and all out drivers are highly trained,” Jamie notes. “All the tankers are securely tracked on the road and we Jas McCarthy Transport, Shady Nook, Carrigane, Carrigtwohill, County Cork.

Tel: 021 4883037 Email: info@jasmctransport.com www.facebook.com/ Jasmctransport

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Continued success to Jas McCarthy Transport

Best wishes to Jas McCarthy Transport

Best Wishes to Jas McCarthy Transport

Agri Sales & Solid Fuel

Wishing continued success to Jas McCarthy Transport

Townspark, Midleton, Co. Cork

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Phone Number: 021 4630683 Email: info@amac.ie Web: www.amac.ie

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Best Wishes to Jas McCarthy Transport

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The fleet is simply breath-taking

know exactly where they are at any given moment.”

Six or more tankers travel to Dublin daily and tankers also depart from Midleton Distillery to Waterford, Cavan and Northern Ireland, where Jameson and Paddy are used to make different brands.

The strong, enduring relationship between Jas McCarthy Transport and Irish Distillers goes back more than two decades.

“We’ve been with them since 1996/97,” Jamie recounts. “Jimmy did tipper work with them originally, bringing in malt to the distillery – which we still do today - but he started carrying whiskey in tankers in the early ‘noughties. It was just a few runs at the start but it got busier over time and Irish Distillers were happy with the service we provided which has seen us expand to where we are today.”

A rigorous pre-emptive replenishment / upgrading programme is enforced

Jas McCarthy Transport operates one of the finest-looking and most finely-tuned fleets on the island

Last year, the fleet was bolstered with the addition of brand-new DAF and Volvo trucks

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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jas mccarthy Designed_Layout 1 17/06/2019 15:59 Page 5

How has Jas McCarthy Transport managed to thrive for a quarter of a century and counting in such a competitive and challenging environment?

“I would say it all comes down to customer satisfaction which lies solely with your employees.

I would say we have the best bunch of drivers on the road..

They were all sourced locally by my father through recommendations from people he knew and trusted. They are great drivers and we value them above all else. They start work every morning around 3.00/4.00am and they are always on time without fail. The drivers are also key to keeping the spotless reputation we have, each driver cleans his truck 3-4 times a week and they all look after it as if it was their own. We focus on doing the job right because the loads are valuable and safety is paramount on the road, so there is no room for error.

“We are constantly upgrading our trucks to make sure that downtime is absolutely minimal . Eight of the ten trucks are 2015-reg or newer. This is specialised work and we make sure that every job is done

properly.

“Maintenance is critical. We do the servicing and 12 week checks ourselves while Sean Dennehy Commercials look after all our repairs once the trucks are out of warranty.”

Going forward, the objective is to continue providing Irish Distillers with the best possible service: “We’re very happy with where we are and the tanker work – and associated jobs with Irish Distillers is our main priority. Expansion is welcomed but not our main focus, continuing to provide Irish Distillers with an optimal service will always be our main focus,” Jamie concludes. “ The two new tautliners we bought in January are being used to transport used barrels for Irish Distillers from Cork to Tullamore and we’re adding two more tautliners from SDC in July for the same work.

There’s no let-up in the investment but we’re very busy and delighted to be working for such a great customer. We have a very good relationship with Irish Distillers and we’re absolutely focussed on continuing to provide them with an excellent transport service.”

There are ten immaculate units in the fleet at present

Every load is precious

On the road again

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Going strong for a quarter of a century

jas mccarthy Designed_Layout 1 17/06/2019 15:59 Page 6

Best wishes to Jas McCarthy Transport

ADR & General Haulage Forwarding | Maintenance Licensed International Haulier

Killahora, Glounthaune, Co. Cork T: +353 21 4353168 | M: +353 86 2537544 E: dennehytransport@eircom.net W: www.condennehyandco.ie

Best wishes to Jas McCarthy Transport

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Specto designed_Layout 1 17/06/2019 15:45 Page 1

The Specto site is served by four full length drivethrough maintenance bays

SPECTO FORGE NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH HOUGHTON PARKHOUSE Specto are the new sole agents for Houghton Parkhouse in the Republic of Ireland, having held a successful Open Day at their impressive facility near Fermoy, Co. Cork on Saturday, March 9 last.

B

“We’re delighted to be the sole agents

ased in Cumbria, Houghton an

for Houghton Parkhouse in the Republic

international leader in the

of Ireland. This will involve the sale,

manufacture and sale of

service, distribution and maintenance of

Parkhouse

are

livestock transporters and will make use

Houghton

of

transporters,” Specto Managing Director

the

state-of-the-art

vehicle

maintenance workshop provided by

Parkhouse

livestock

Damien Healy explains.

“Last

Specto, which was founded 2013 and

year,

we

implemented

internationally

commercial vehicle operators.

Management System, ISO 9001:2015 in

56

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

recognised

an

provide complete repair services for

Quality

Specto Corrin, Fermoy, Co. Cork.

Telephone: 025 45601 Fax: 025 45626 Email: info@specto.ie Web: www.specto.ie

Specto designed_Layout 1 17/06/2019 15:45 Page 2

Individual HGV owners and large fleets receive the same great service

Specto and achieved formal certification

Trailer, the 44’ Professional Two-Deck

alignment system, heavy duty roller

in April 2018. The ISO Management

Cow Livestock Transporter Tri-Axle

brake testing machine, Texa / Knorr

System aims to ensure that our

Monocoque Step Frame Semi-Trailer,

Bremse

customers consistently receive the

the 28’ Platinum Three-Deck Livestock

maintenance breakdown service vans

diagnostics,

two

fleet

services they expect. By implementing

Transporter & Hydraulic Lifting Roof on

and tank testing equipment.

this system, we are implementing the

Steel Platform fitted to a new Scania V8

Founded to provide much-needed

necessary controls and monitoring to

R580 8x2 and the 14’ 4x4 Platinum T35

services as required under the 2012

ensure this happens. ISO 900:2015 is

Lifting Deck with Tandem Axle chassis to

Road Transport Bill, Specto has grown

internationally recognised and shows existing and potential customers how serious we are about quality and also the products that Houghton Parkhouse produce fits in with our ethos.”

Specto’s workshop manager Irek Szpin has also welcomed the new partnership which will establish and enhance the Houghton Parkhouse brand in this country.

The

Open

Day

was

an

opportunity for those associated with the

to employ a team of 24 people, including

suit.

Specto are also authorised agents for DEZIDATA tanker measuring equipment, service agents for Rolfo car transporters and supplying fleet management and repair

maintenance

services

to

numerous commercial vehicle operators, Specto operates from a purpose-built 13,000 sq ft facility just off the M8 Motorway (Junction 15) near Fermoy.

14 technicians, who operate two daily shifts from 8am until 2am. The main services

provided

are:

Breakdown

service, vehicle maintenance / service of all

makes

and

models,

periodic

roadworthiness (six-week / 12-week safety

and

service)

inspections,

computerised roller brake testing, CVRT preparation, bodywork repairs / body building / fabrication, tyre service and

livestock transport industry to take a

The site is served by four full length

repair,

close look at some of Houghton

drive-through maintenance bays, each

alignment truck / trailer and tank / tanker

Parkhouse’s award-winning livestock

complete with 20 tonne pit jacks, tyre

repairs / servicing / testing. Specto also

transporters, many of which were visiting

changing machine, five-tonne overhead

has a fully-manned stores which sells

the Republic of Ireland for

crane, heavy duty truck / bus wheel

the

first

time.

These

the

43’6”

included Professional

Two-Deck

Cow

Livestock

Transporter

ADR

maintenance,

wheel

Tri-Axle

Ladder Step Frame Semi-

Another view of the Specto facility

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Specto designed_Layout 1 17/06/2019 15:45 Page 3

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Specto designed_Layout 1 17/06/2019 15:45 Page 4

spare parts from 8am to 12am Monday-Friday and deals with callouts on weekends. The company’s strategic location ensures easy access to Cork, Limerick, Dublin, Waterford and to the rest of the country.

“We

recognise

The 13,000 sq ft facility is situated just off the M8 Motorway between Fermoy and Rathcormac

the

importance of providing our customers with a very high level of exclusive service and knowledge,” Damien says.

“We are proving ourselves to be an efficient and transparent The company provides a complete repair and maintenance service

service provider, enabling our customers to reduce their total cost

of

vehicle

ownership

whilst

maintaining the highest standard of

owners or large fleets, the core principles

nasty surprises. They do what needs to

of exceptional service and competitive

be done and it’s all recorded for the

rates always apply. ‘Specto Witness’ is

benefit of the customer.

workmanship and full compliance with

an innovation that provides every client

RSA enforcement commercial vehicle

with an audio / visual account of all

regulations. We are committed to

repairs / modifications carried out. It’s

keeping you and your fleet on the move.”

upfront, transparent and customer-

Specto’s customers for their continued

Whether dealing with individual HGV

friendly. With Specto, there are never any

support.

Best Wishes To Specto

MIKE’S

“The affable managing director would like to take this opportunity to thank

TYRE CENTRE BREAKDOWN SERVICE Church Hill, Fermoy, Co.Cork

Tel:025-31706 Tel:087-2626103

Wishing Continued Success To SPECTO From

FOR ALL YOUR CAR PARTS NEEDS Fermoy, Co. Cork

025 32357

www.avondhumotorfactors.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Southeast CPC Designed_Layout 1 18/06/2019 10:23 Page 1

SOUTHEAST CPC PASS THE TEST WITH FLYING COLOURS Southeast CPC will celebrate 10 years in business this November and they have many strings to their bow when it comes to road transport training, compliance and engineering. Proprietor Brian Carroll and his ‘right hand man’ Pat Maher talked Irish Trucker & Light Commercials through the services they provide and the key attributes that the progressive company prides itself on. ’m a mechanic by trade,” Brian Carroll revealed as he looked back on how Southeast CPC first came into being back in 2009. “From 1989 to 2008, I was working in the motor trade, I started as a mechanic and got involved in commercial vehicle testing and tachographs shortly afterwards. I then moved into commercial vehicle sales. In all I worked for four different companies, both main and independent dealers. I have to say that I learned so much from those employers and I am extremely grateful to each one. Unfortunately, due

“I

60

to the recession, I was let go in 2008 and with very little choices I decided to upskill, move in a different direction and started South East CPC. “I started out doing Driver CPC Periodic training initially and the other limbs of the business literally grew from there.

Everything we do is road transport focused and broken into three different areas, training, compliance and engineering.”

The extensive range of services that Southeast CPC provides its clients includes: Driver CPC Periodic Training for new and experienced Bus and Truck

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

drivers, Initial CPC Training including Case Studies preparation for drivers intending to enter the industry and acquire a full Truck or Bus Licence with full CPC status, Driver Daily Walk-Around Check Training, Tachograph and Driver’s Hours Training, Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Compliance Training for Transport Operators and Managers, Transport Management CPC Training for anyone intending to become a transport manager, Manual Handling and First Aid Training. We were approved last year by The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport to deliver the Transport

Southeast CPC Designed_Layout 1 18/06/2019 10:23 Page 2

Office Administrator Caroline Fogarty

Managing Director Brian Carroll established the company a decade ago

The personal touch is what separates Southeast CPC from the competition

Management CPC at our Operating Base in Cillin Hill, Kilkenny.

In addition to training, they stock Digital Tachograph Download equipment and Tachograph Analysis Software. The company also provides Tachograph Analysis and Reporting for transport operators as well as Training in the area of tachographs compliance. We can set operators up to manage and analyse their own tachograph data or we can do it for them. The system’s we can offer are the most user friendly on the market

Patrick Maher of South East CPC

explained Pat. They are also extremely well priced. The customer can also opt out anytime they choose, they aren’t restrained with a contract.

Another specialty is Training in Load Securing and the company will also supply Load Securing Equipment straps, chains etc. This is in light of recent changes in load safety management.

With their office opened Monday to Friday and a half day on Saturday there is always someone there to help or assist clients or potential clients any way they can. “We pride ourselves on the ‘personal touch’,” explained Caroline Fogarty. This certainly has been

beneficial over the years. Southeast CPC Training Centre and their offices are located at Cillin Hill, Dublin Road, Kilkenny with two other registered training centres at Barrack Obama Plaza, Moneygall and The Maldron Hotel, Newlands Cross, Dublin. “We intend having a second Driver CPC training Centre in Kilkenny in the coming weeks,” explained Pat Maher. “This is to facilitate night classes.”

Brian is assisted in the day-to-day running of the business by Pat Maher and Caroline Fogarty while they employ the services of freelance trainers to help them meet the demands of their training courses. Brian’s father, John Joe, also helps out regularly. “To be honest,” remarked Brian, “I couldn’t manage without Pat and Caroline. They go beyond the call of duty so often and as for my Dad, he has been fantastic.

“Business is quite good from a training perspective due to the fact that the Driver CPC deadline for truck drivers with acquired rights is coming this September,” Brian revealed. “We provide training to clients from both the public and private sectors. We work with a good many Local Authorities as well, delivering various types of transport training, including CPC. We are always at hand to give advice on licencing, vehicle specification and transport safety matters for everyone concerned.

“We have approximately 3,500 people attend our courses every year and we also provide Driver CPC Initial training to the ETBS. Approximately 200 people attend those programmes every year.”

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Southeast CPC Designed_Layout 1 18/06/2019 10:23 Page 3

Continued Best Wishes To Southeast CPC, From

M&A Coaches Ltd. Ballyragget, Co.Kilkenny Coach and Bus Hire Locally and Nationwide

P: + 353 56 883 3454 (3 Lines) F: + 353 56 883 3208

E: emma@mandacoaches.com www.mandacoaches.com

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Southeast CPC

Bulk Excavation Site Clearance Walking Floor Trailers Demolition

Dublin Road, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny, T : +353 056 7724404 E : mary@mcguirehaulage.com www.mcguirehaulage.com Best Wishes To Southeast CPC, From

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Our

IDHA Reseller Southeast CPC From

Phelan Skip Hire & Waste Mgt Ltd

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Southeast CPC, From

Best Wishes To

Southeast CPC From

Skip Hire And Waste Collection Services In The South East Of Ireland Mill River Business Park, Carrick on Suir, County Tipperary

Call today 051645445 or 0879677797 info@johnphelanskiphire.ie

www.kilkennymart.ie Cillin Hill, Dublin Road, Kilkenny Tel:056-7721407 Fax:056-7721509 62

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

www.johnphelanskiphire.ie

Southeast CPC Designed_Layout 1 18/06/2019 10:23 Page 4

Look no further than South East CPC when it comes to road transport training

Brian added: “We have about five specialist trainers who work with us on a job by job basis and they are all very qualified and knowledgeable in their respective fields. We wouldn’t be where we are today without their contributions.

We also encourage those trainers to keep themselves up to speed with the industry.”

Pat Maher oversees the smooth running of the Digital Tachograph Analysis side of the business as well as keeping an eye on the overall running of the business.

“Brian is out on the road most of the time doing a lot of the training and developing new courses so I look after that,” Pat explained. “I must say, Caroline shares the burden and we work extremely well together.

“We provide analysis software to the end user which they can subsequently manage themselves and we show them how to do that. Alternatively, we can do the analysis for them and report back to them on a monthly basis. We also supply various types of digital tachograph download equipment.”

The personal touch is what separates Southeast CPC from the competition, according to Pat. “For example we provide lunches with our Driver CPC courses which is something that distinguishes us from others. Plus, we are always available at the end of the phone for enquires and that is something that our clients appreciate.”

Meanwhile, Brian revealed that there

Southeast CPC provides an extensive range of services to its clients

are ambitious plans for expansion in the pipeline as he looks ahead to what the next decade might hold in store for the ever-burgeoning business.

“We’ve been in operation for 10 years now and there is a drive to broaden our horizons all the time. We’d be hoping to move into a bigger unit eventually and also branch out further into more bespoke training, training tailored to suit the needs of other industries that are transport related, the motor trade for example, as well as engineering companies and the legal profession. We

are in advanced talks with a number of suppliers in order to add Remote Tachograph Downloading as an option for our clients. We’d also hope to add two more Driver CPC training centres in the next 12 months.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our clients, individuals as well as companies and organisations, suppliers and those that simply helped out, thank you all so much. Your support is truly appreciated.”

So, it’s very much a case of onwards and upwards for Southeast CPC!

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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McElchar transport Designed_Layout 1 17/06/2019 15:11 Page 1

The magnificent fleet is at the heart of the operation

NO.1 FOR SEAFOOD GROUPAGE BETWEEN IRELAND AND SCOTLAND Since its genesis in 1988, McElchar International Transport Ltd. has earned an unrivalled reputation as leaders in seafood groupage between Ireland and Scotland. As the progressive County Donegal based family-run operation welcomed two stunning new Mercedes Actros trucks into their immaculate fleet, we touched base with general manager Barry McElchar to gain an insight. or more than 30 years, McElchar International Transport Ltd. have provided professional logistics solutions throughout Ireland and the UK, their commitment to high standards of performance, reliability and flexibility earning them a stellar reputation as leaders in seafood groupage between Ireland and Scotland.

As a family-owned and operated business, McElchar International Transport provide exceptional communication and customer service, coupled with continued investment in a modern fleet and the latest fleet management technologies, ensuring that

F 64

the specific needs of individual customers are always met.

Son of founder and MD Philip McElchar, Barry McElchar serves as general manager and also oversees the ultra-modern and efficient IT side of the long-serving family business.

“Everything here is computerised, from the daily checks to driver and vehicle performance,” he notes.

“Each driver has a smartphone and we have invested heavily in technology’’.

“My father has embraced all of these new technologies and he is very hungry to learn and keen to move with the times. In keeping with

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

McElchar International Transport, Drumdoit, Castlefinn, County Donegal.

Tel / Fax: 074 9146894 Mobile: 087 2546760 Email: info@mcelchartransport.com Web: www.mcelchartransport.com

McElchar transport Designed_Layout 1 17/06/2019 15:12 Page 2

In January, two new Actros 2453 Big Space Style line tractor units were purchased from Somers Commercials

this, the spec of all the lorries is very high, with televisions, microwaves and fridges all included to make sure that the welfare of our drivers is looked after, while CCTV cameras have been added from a safety perspective and all the tachographs are downloaded and analysed so that the drivers’ hours are kept right.”

McElchar International Transport Ltd. specialises in refrigerated transport, proudly serving both the Irish and Scottish seafood industries. Although fresh fish haulage is their proven specialty, they are more than happy to provide haulage services to other highvalue, time-critical sectors where their exceptional focus on customer service is a valued attribute.

An experienced and dedicated team, with access to modern and immaculate trucks and trailers, provides a wide range of professional services to customers, including full loads and part-load / groupage solutions, with bespoke service depending on client’s needs.

“Dad started out with a livestock trailer first, then a curtainsider, and he went into fridges soon after,” Barry reflects. “We now have seven trucks on the road and eight refrigerated trailers, providing a daily seafood groupage service between Ireland and Scotland.”

Unlike traditional haulage, the work is neither consistent nor regular, with everything depending on what is caught and where it’s landed, so McElchar International Transport have to be flexible and ready to move into action at the drop of the proverbial hat, be that to Clogherhead, Omeath, Dublin, Howth, Wexford, Kilmore Quay, Dunmore East, Limerick, Cork, Castletown Bere, Galway, Killybegs or Portavogie.

As Ireland’s premier fish haulage contractor, they offer a comprehensive range of transport services, tailored to meet the requirements of customers,

with on-time and secure delivery a given.

With demand strong for the distribution of part-load and small consignments loads, McElchar International Transport offer specific packages for this type of distribution, consolidating a number of smaller consignments to make up a full vehicle load, at a competitive price. They offer a routine service between Scotland and Ireland, with a next-day delivery guarantee for consignments of fresh fish, salmon, prawns, scallops, shellfish, nets, fishing vessel parts, processing equipment, packaging, empty fish boxes, etc.

McElchar International Transport Ltd. specialises in refrigerated transport, proudly serving both the Irish and Scottish seafood industries IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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McElchar transport Designed_Layout 1 17/06/2019 15:12 Page 3

Meanwhile, they also offer a wide range of options for traditional full load haulage throughout Ireland, the UK and Scotland on a bespoke basis, including seafood, bait, dry goods and perishable goods.

“We work for 50+ customers delivering anything from a full load to a single box,” Barry continues. “We consolidate their loads and do distribution on their behalf, either to a central hub or directly to processors, co-ops, supermarkets, etc.”

The magnificent fleet is at the heart of the operation. “All the trailers are dual-temperature and the oldest we have at the moment is five years old. They’re fitted with BlueTree tracking and remote monitors with alarms so that we know when the doors are opened or closed. We added a Schmitz Cargobull to the fleet in November and we also have six Chereaus and one SOR. We’re extremely happy with the Schmitz so far and we might stick with them going forward as they are a good, reliable trailer.”

The seven-strong truck fleet comprises all Mercedes and one Renault Magnum. In January, two new Actros 2453 Big Space Style line tractor units were purchased from Somers Commercials. “We’re very happy with them. We traded in a 2014 model for one of them and we never had a single breakdown with that truck in four years. The fuel economy is excellent. They average between 8.6 and 9.4 miles per gallon, which is exceptional for multi-drop work. They would be a very comfortable mile per gallon ahead of anything else we’ve had.

The drivers really like them and the service we’ve received from Somers has been top drawer. Their service manager Mano Quigley couldn’t do enough for you.”

Barry is quick to point out that the McElchar International Transport team is also excellent. “We have a great team. Bill Dugeid is our longest-serving driver and is an integral part of the team. Michael McDaid is another long-serving member of staff, while Simon Toland, Edmund McDaid, Gary Gibb and Dermot McElchar – my youngest brother – also drive for us.

They are all great lads and our customers regularly comment on their professionalism and how helpful they are.”

In terms of fleet maintenance, Philip, Barry and Dermot carry out all the checks, safety inspections and small repairs – tyres, brakes, lights, etc. - in house, while the main dealer looks after servicing and major repairs.

McElchar International Transport have invested in the best fleet management and tracking technologies available on the market, offering real-time monitoring of their fleet and ensuring a service that is consistently efficient and professional.

Embracing the latest GPS Satellite Tracking, Transport Management and Computerised Maintenance Management Systems as well as Driver PDAs, IT plays a big part in the day to day running of the business. “We use Fleetio fleet management software,” Barry points out. “Fleetio is an American company and we were one of their earliest customers. It’s very user-friendly.”

In conjunction with Eureka Software in Wexford, Barry has also helped develop a paperless transport management system that is specifically suited to the needs of McElchar International Transport. Having previously worked with the ESB, he joined the family business full time in 2016 as steady growth of 20% per annum was being recorded.

“We’re still growing year on year,” he concludes. “It’s not dramatic growth, but organic, based on references and word of mouth. But we’re very focussed on what we are doing and we don’t want to expand much more. We want to keep the business so that we can manage it and do all the important jobs ourselves because customer service is our number one priority and we don’t want to ever compromise on that.”

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Best Wishes To McElchar International Transport Ltd

TACHOGRAPH & SPEED LIMITER AGENTS VEHICLE PLATING

ADR Testing

Commercial Vehicle Workshop / Approved ATC Centre

24 HOUR RECOVERY SERVICE

Ballybofey Road, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, Email: testing@dcv.ie Tel: 074-9121005 (Day) or 074-9124605 Fax: 074-9124257

Curran Connolly & Co. (Drogheda) Ltd. Best Wishes To McElchar International Transport, from

Established 1975

INSURANCE SPECIALISTS FOR THE HAULAGE INDUSTRY 28 Laurence Street, Drogheda T: 041-9807600 | F: 041-9835272 | www.curcon.ie

Curran Connolly & Co (Drogheda) Ltd Is Regulated by the Central Bank Of Ireland

GMK REFRIGERATION Ltd.

Best Wishes & Continued Success To McElchar International Transport, From

AGENTS FOR THERMO KING & DHOLLANDIA TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION & TAILLIFT SALES & REPAIRS

Monaghan Tel:(+353) 047-88872 Mobile: (+353) 086-3821855 Email: gmkrefrigeration@eircom.net

alphabella Designed_Layout 1 17/06/2019 15:08 Page 1

A family affair - Paul and Bradley Baird established the business in October 2018

THE BEST QUALITY REPLACEMENT TYRES Looking for the most reliable and cost-effective replacement tyres available in the market today? Look no further than Alphabella Ltd because the fledgling family-run business can save you money while not compromising on quality. pecialising in HGV next tread and premier brand part worn tyres, Alphabella Ltd commenced trading last October and is the brainchild

S

of father and son duo, Paul and Bradley Baird.

In that short period of time, it has quickly established a name as a company that can be trusted to supply

the highest quality products.

Managing directors Paul and Bradley built the company on the back of a wealth of knowledge gained through decades of running former Haulage company

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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alphabella Designed_Layout 1 17/06/2019 15:08 Page 2

Alphabella specialise in HGV next tread and premier brand part worn tyres

Joseph Baird Transport.

Based in Scarva, they aim to carry a large stock of product at all times to cater for the growing demand of part worn or retreaded tyres to the hauliers of Northern Ireland and beyond.

“It was something that was always in my dad’s head,” Bradley explained. “The market was there for it because there was no one else doing it. When you think about it, it’s the smart choice to make – why pay £400 for a new tyre when you can pay £150?!”

Every casing considered for retreading

by Goodyear, Dunlop has been inspected twice, once at the point of collection, and once upon arrival at the tyre manufactures factory. If they consider the casing to be in any way compromised, it goes for scrap. This gives the every end user the assurance that the product is well tested and quality assured.

Retreads are the replacement tires of choice for most truckers. Of nearly 34 million replacement tires purchased by fleets in 2018, more than half were retreads.

Retreads are not only cost effective, but they are dependable, reliable and safe.

Next treads are now much more popular than precures. The mould cure process takes an existing casing and fully replaces the whole exterior surface area of the tyre, from one sidewall bead to the other. Choose from Alphabella’s

68

quality assured Next tread Goodyear range for the life of a new tyre at a fraction of the price!

Meanwhile, their entire part worn range is hand-picked by them to assure quality on every unit and they only stock recognized brands such as Bridgestone, Pirelli, Goodyear and more. They have tried to keep selection simple with their buy easy guide consisting of their 70% and 50% left ranges.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Committed to saving their ever-growing list of satisfied clients’ money, Bradley reports that business has been brisk since the turn of the year.

“It was slow at the start because the days of companies holding 20 tyres in a garage for a rainy day are in the past.

They only use tyres when they need them. One of the biggest challenges we faced was getting our name out there but dad’s reputation in the haulage industry has helped to open doors.

“We didn’t expect big transport companies to come on board so quickly.

Initially when we set up, we were looking at the one man, one lorry market but have pleasantly been surprised with the number of big companies that have come on board so far this year.

“Anyone who has bought them have been very happy with the quality of the tyres and we are very proud of the product we supply. We’ve brought key players into the market and, at a quarter

Alphabella Ltd 19 Station Road Scarva BT636LU Craigavon Banbridge Northern Ireland Tel: +44 7880 827091 Website: alphabella.co.uk

alphabella Designed_Layout 1 17/06/2019 15:08 Page 3

of the price of new tyres, it really is a no-brainer.”

Although still early days, Paul and Bradley have ambitious plans for expansion in the pipeline.

“We have one van on the road at the minute but would love to get to a stage where we have three to four vans out on the road covering the whole of Ireland. We don’t offer a breakdown service but that is something we would like to branch out into.

We’d like to get to a situation where if one of our customers found themselves in a tricky situation, we’d be able to get out to help them within an hour.”

So who uses NextTread or Retreads? The answer is nearly 100 percent of the world’s airlines use retreaded tyres; off road, heavy duty vehicles use retreaded tyres; school buses and

"Why pay £400 for a new tyre when you can pay £150?!” - Bradley Baird

municipal vehicles use retreaded tyres; HGV fleets and overnight delivery vehicles use retreaded tyres and Emergency vehicles use retreaded tyres.

Available Monday to Friday (9am-5pm) by appointment only, contact Paul or Bradley to find out more about the products and services they offer.

BULK LIQUIDS

143 Huntly Rd., Banbridge, Co. Down BT32 3UA Tel: 028 406 62670 Fax: 028 406 28039

Best Wishes To Alphabella Ltd

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Christina has worked for the company for 23 years now

THE VOICE OF BALLINLOUGH 70

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It is fair to say that the haulage industry is a male dominated sector, but the trend of women becoming involved in this area has certainly being growing in recent years. owever, there are women that have been involved in the transport sector for many years now and for this month’s edition of Irish Trucker we profile one such lady.

Christina Dockery has been working for Ballinlough Refrigeration for the past 23 years dating back to a time when it was uncommon to see women working in this industry.

A multi-franchise nationwide service and repair company specialising in Thermo King transport refrigeration and Dhollandia hydraulic tail lifts, Ballinlough Refrigeration has come a long way since Joe Jordan set up the business in Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon in 1986.

The company was appointed sole Thermo King dealer for Ireland in 1992 and acquired the Dhollandia Tail Lift dealership for Ireland three years later.

Ballinlough Refrigeration’s Dublin head office is complemented by further outlets in Cork (Annacarton Bridge) and indeed the original site in Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon. In addition, the company has service affiliates in all areas of the country who are fully trained and supplied with genuine Thermo King and Dhollandia replacement parts.

The business boasts a considerable portfolio of products and services from food safety, pharmaceutical compliance and temperature mapping, specialist tail lift applications and bespoke total management solutions with individual teams looking after each segment.

Ballinlough’s after-hours service is second to none with service engineers available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Ballinlough Refrigeration’s customerbase includes Tesco Distribution, Tesco.com, SuperValu, Dunnes Stores, Kerry Foods and the Irish Blood Transfusion Service Board as well as almost every main local and international haulier in Ireland. All of these, and many more customers continue to engage Ballinlough Refrigeration due to its experience, range of products and after sales’ offerings.

Ballinlough is proud to fly the flag for Thermo King and Dhollandia in Ireland.

Thermo King offers a comprehensive range of product solutions specifically designed for the transport temperature

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The company’s new premises in Kingswood

control industry. The company prides itself in the research and development of market-leading innovative solutions to ensure it continues to offer customers the most reliable and dynamic products.

Through hard work and endeavour, Christina is now the company’s Service & Warranty Controller. Christina revealed to us that she got into this line of work by chance really, but soon developed a love for her role and that passion shines through during the course of this interview.

“I successfully completed a computerised secretarial course after my leaving as I was unsure what I wanted to do. Ballinlough were looking for someone to cover a six-week period in their Roscommon office, so I took that on and after this period ended a position become available in their Dublin Office, I am here ever since!” stated Christina.

“I will be 23 years here in September and when I first started I had no idea that I would be here that long. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here; the time has honestly just flown by. I feel I can now proudly say I played a significant part in the growth of the Service Department”.

Christina admits that when she first started, it was a case of earning the customers trust as being a woman was almost frowned upon in the industry.

“I never really had any problems with that but customers at first were hesitant to speak to me about their issues. When they realised the knowledge and technical expertise I had gained from working in the service office I started to earn their respect and soon it was me they were looking for on the phone.”

“It is important to have a good relationship with our valued customers and I do feel I have successfully achieved that over the years. Supporting our customers 24/7, 365 days a year from regular service in our Dublin depot to a trailer stranded in the most remote area of Europe has been a central part of my role. I have relished the opportunity to grow within my role, my team and train those who work alongside me, I am the first point of contact and support to our Dublin Fridge Service Manager Simon Kealy for all operational activities and our aim is to keep the

Ballinlough Refrigeration Limited Kingswood, Naas Road, Dublin 22.

D22 WP49 +353 1 4600 322

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Best wishes to Ballinlough Refrigeration

SOUTH WEST Best Wishes To Ballinlough Refrigeration, From

REFRIGERATION Sales & Service

Specialise In Transport Refrigeration LIMERICK Telephone/Fax: 061-338611 Mobile: 087-2755803 72

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Terry O’Hanlon presenting a Foundation training Course

customer happy.”

Christina states that the industry has changed in so many ways over the years and moving with the times is essential for any business to thrive.

“There have been huge changes in the industry over the years and at Ballinlough, we have strived to foresee these changes, be it new regulations around refrigerant gases or the growth in the pharmaceutical sector.”

The Mayo native added that her role never gets boring as no two days are the same in the job, which she feels keep her focused on the task in hand.

“Over the years, I have been involved in many different areas of the business and I have learned something new from each experience. After 23 years I am confident that I will be able to answer any query.”

Christina’s success in the business was recognised at the Fleet Transport Awards when she was nominated in the Women in Transport category.

“The company asked me to go forward for the award and I was interviewed last September before being shortlisted for the final, which

and Christina stressed that Ballinlough take health and safety very seriously.

“A lot of work went into obtaining the ISO: 9001. Health and safety is a huge issue for us and the management are keen to ensure the welfare of everyone in the company comes first and foremost.”

“I have taken ownership of the warranty claims process along with Andrew Reilly. I have found this to be both challenging and fulfilling as it is testing my technical knowledge. I have also been integral to the development of the inhouse Thermo King Foundation Training course. It was rolled out in April 2019 with our own Terry O’Hanlon presenting the inaugural course which was a huge success.

There is no doubt that Christina is a driving force within the Ballinlough team and she feels that she got her work ethic from a very special person.

“I definitely get my work ethic from my mother Marian who has worked hard all her life and I have Christina deals with the taken a lot of inspiration customers on a daily basis from her over the years.”

I was delighted with as it is nice to receive some recognition from the industry”.

Ballinlough has recently been awarded ISO: 9001, 14001 & 45001 accreditation

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MOVING WITH THE TIMES

McGrath Coaches is one of the premier coach hire companies in the west of Ireland and one of the reasons for this is their willingness to invest in the business and move with the times.

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Taking delivery of a new Scania Irizar i6Sbus is Thomas McGrath with Director of Sales for Westward Scania Patrick Carton

his family run business has never been one to shy away from investment as company MD Tom McGrath explained to Irish Trucker.

“We have invested heavily over the past five years and the reason for this has been too not only modernise the fleet, but the operation as a whole,” said Tom. “Technology has become a massive part of business now and we know that unless we keep up to date with everything, it makes life that little more difficult to compete.

“In March, we took deliver of a brand new 53-seater Scania Irizar i6s from Westward Scania. The fleet now contains Scania, DAF, Mercedes and Volvo buses.

We have 25 vehicles in total which is a large amount in the west of Ireland.”

Providing daily scheduled local services, coach tours, school transport, private hire, contract hire and a whole lot more, McGrath Coaches have built their reputation by providing a quality service that is second to none and is currently working through the third generation of the family, while the fourth generation are also being introduced to the business.

“This work is in our blood and it dates back as far as 1923, when my grandfather was issued his first hackney plate so you could say we have a lot of experience in the coach hire industry,” joked Tom.

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Another string added to the company's bow came in February this year with the launch of Cancer Care West's, the West of Ireland cancer charity, new bus service for Mayo Cancer patients who have to travel to University Hospital Galway to receive treatment for cancer.

The service, commenced in early February, will transport patients to Inis Aoibhinn, Cancer Care West's residential facility on a Monday and home again on the Friday, after their week's treatment.

Every year approximately 250 people from Mayo have to travel to University Hospital Galway to receive Radiotherapy treatment. Radiotherapy treatment is generally 6-8 weeks duration, with one treatment per day. Cancer Care West runs its own 33-bedroom residential service, Inis Aoibhinn, on the grounds of UHG, which provides accommodation, Monday to Friday, for radiotherapy patients who travel long distances from home for their treatment.

The new 29-seater Iveco Turas will be run by McGrath Coaches and Tom is delighted to be involved in such a worthy initiative.

“We were approached about operating the bus service which was financed following a fundraising drive and I had no hesitation in getting involved. We will supply the driver for the bus while we will also look after the maintenance of the vehicle.

“The bus will transport patients to the University Hospital Galway on a Monday and pick them up then on the Friday and take them home.”

Safety is a priority for McGrath Coaches and the team are trained to the highest standard possible in line with the latest regulations and legislation in the industry.

“All our drivers go through all the necessary training and safety is paramount. A lot of our investment has had safety in mind with all our vehicles having the latest technology available as well as being well maintained.”

Tom is pleased to the direction of the business as he revealed that they offer wide range of services that not only serve the local community but others as well.

“It's mixed work. We do the local daily services , school transport, community transport, daily Route Services for Bus

McGrath Coaches Glenamoy, Ballina, County Mayo.

Tel: 097 87842/M: 087 231 3029 Email: info@mcgrathcoaches.com

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McGrath Coaches have 25 vehicles on the road

Eireann we do transportation of the Irish students for Colaiste Acla. We also do tours of Ireland working with different tour operators within Ireland as well as the UK and the US.” To ensure total safety and reliability, the fleet is maintained inhouse in the family's own workshop. The workshop was built in the mid 1980's to facilitate for the larger coaches and the original workshop is still used as a store dating back to the 1950's. A new yard and parking area were added to facilitate the fleet in 2007, while a further upgrade of the garage is ongoing at the moment to cater for the larger coaches that are now part of the fleet.

Tom McGrath enjoys all aspects of the business from being Operations Manager to Mechanic to driving. “It's a vocation,” he notes. “You're involved up to seven days a week during the busy periods and you can't take your eye off the ball. You have to have a lot of patience and understanding and you also have to have an understanding partner because a lot of hours go into

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it”.

Tom feels that the West of Ireland is still unchartered territory, despite the rise of the Wild Atlantic Way as he feels it is an untapped source for not only tourists, but Irish people in general.

“The genesis of the Wild Atlantic Way has certainly opened up the West of Ireland to the rest of the country and even more so to tourism, but a lot more can be done and it needs to be promoted even more.”

Traditionally, McGrath Coaches bought quality second-hand coaches but there have been big changes in the transport sector with there being a shortage of quality second-hand vehicles out there so going forward they are purchasing new vehicles.

Regarding the need for regular investment in the fleet, Tom adds: “You have to keep spending. We had had a tendency to hold onto vehicles and keep them for a long time. When we decide to let a vehicle go, we like to know it is going to a good home.

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There are many overheads in the industry so every decision has to be made with the utmost caution and Tom admitted that one area that concerns him at the moment is Brexit.

“These are challenging times with the threat of Brexit looming over us. No one really knows what will happen. It is certainly a situation that we are monitoring closely.

“You have to look down the road and adapt as services and technology change. New coaches are a major investment - but bring with it new opportunities of expanding your work into other areas.”

Best wishes & continued success to McGrath Coaches

The fleet is kept in pristine condition inside and out

Three generations of the McGrath family: Michael McGrath Jnr, Thomas McGrath, Michael McGrath Snr and Westward Scania Director of Sales Patrick Carton

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The company prides itself on the strength of its products

BRANCHING OUT TO BLANCH For more than 30 years now, Dennehy Commercials Ltd has prided itself on the strength of its products and the dedicated experience of its staff. Irish Trucker caught up with Director, David Dennehy to learn more about the company and its decision to open a new base in Blanchardstown, Co Dublin. eadquartered in Co Limerick, Dennehy Commercials Ltd has been providing its customers with the products and services they need for over three decades now.

The company employs 32 staff at present and supplies a range of different services which includes Truck and Van Sales, Truck and Van Hire, DOE/CVRT Testing, Service and Parts, Truck Breakdown Assistance, Promotions and Finance.

In 2018, Dennehy Commercials Ltd opened ‘Dennehy Truck and Van Rental’ in Blanchardstown and the expansion to the capital has been going well since.

As David Dennehy himself explained,

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the company first got “their foot in the door” in Dublin four years ago and since that time opening up an additional base there has been on the cards.

“We opened it in Blanchardstown about eight months ago,” he outlined. “We already had part of the fleet up there so we opened up there and we also opened a new van centre there as well. We’ve also just opened a Renault Van Franchise this past May called Dennehy Pro Plus.

“Business has been going well since we opened there. We’re really concentrating on our contract hire fleet at the moment.

“The MAN TGE Van a very popular vehicle for us with regards to contract hire. We started selling it in August of last year and it has gone very well for us.”

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Dennehy Commercials Ltd Riverside Park, Dock Road, Co Limerick Phone: 061 229 900 Dublin base: Dennehy Truck and Van Rental Unit 802 NW Business Park, Kilshane Avenue, Blanchardstown, Dublin, D15 PC97 Tel: (01) 912 32 32 E-mail: info@dennehycommercials.com Web: www.dennehycommercials.com

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Dennehy Commercials Ltd are main agents for MAN trucks and Renault trucks

reliable vehicles with low operating costs and efficient service and to optimise driver safety and comfort.

Dennehy Commercials has recently upgraded its computer system incorporating the best operating systems in the industry. This enables the company to meet the challenges ahead as regulations become more stringent and the industry becomes more demanding.

They view these changes

Along with excellent vehicles for hire, Dennehy Commercials Ltd possess a staff team which has a wealth of experience in every aspect of service within the commercial vehicle industry, giving their customers long term peace of mind in the form of exceptional aftersales support.

The company’s success is based on its ability to orient their products and services to the needs of customers.

It is their aim to increase profitability for their customers through innovative and

and demands as a challenge and look forward to serving their wide customer base in the years ahead by becoming the customer’s number one business partner with the best transport solutions.

And ‘the best’ is what Dennehy Commercials Ltd has always aimed for and is part of the reason why they took the decision to branch out into Blanchardstown last year.

The company continues to be main agents for MAN trucks and Renault trucks, having started with MAN since the early years of its inception.

Full services for MAN trucks include – Full Inspection, Replacement of Air, Oil

The MAN TGE is a very popular choice with regards to contract hire

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McCarthy Recovery Service Best wishes to Dennehy Commercials

Limerick

Specialise In All Bus & Coach Recovery

Contact 087 1353066

Best Wishes To Dennehy Commercials

Tel: 01 404 9060 www.techplus.ie

Tallaght, Dublin 24

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Truck Alignment

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Best Wishes & Continued Success To Dennehy Commercials From

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“The Dennehy name has been in the motor industry a long time and we’re now well known for being a one-stop-shop with all different kinds of services” - David Dennehy

and All Fuel filters. Castrol Low Saps engine oil replaced and all levels topped up, Environmental Waste Charge and Greasing.

Any other defects found during inspection will be advised to customer.

Any additional repair work must be authorised by the customer before being carried out.

As for the DOE and CRVT testing which takes place at the base at the Riverside Business Park, Dennehy Commercials carry out both LCV (light commercial vehicle) and HCV (heavy commercial vehicle) tests to include vans, trucks, trailers, camper-vans, buses, ambulances.

They also offer Tachograph Installation/Calibration, Speed Limiter Installation/Calibration and Weight Plate Fitting.

The DOE test is carried out on behalf of the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and is an annual test which ensures all commercial vehicles are maintained to a safe and roadworthy standard.

The testing equipment used is compliant with all relevant regulations and legislation and all tests are carried out by the company’s professional, certified and experienced technicians, with a facility to also carry out LGV and HGV tests.

While customers wait for their vehicle they are able to relax in in the comfortable customer waiting room; with Tea/Coffee, Vending Machine, Satellite TV and Wi-fi.

It’s all a far cry from when the company was first started up by Dennis Dennehy an even four decades ago.

Denis – father of current directors David

and Rory – got his business off the ground from Carrigtwohill in Co Cork before opening up along the Dock Road in Co Limerick.

Now Dennehy Commercials has an operation in Dublin and is still very much a family business, according to David.

“We’ve been in business a long time now,” he stated. “It’s a family business and we’ve had a good name around the Munster area going back to as far as my grandfather.

“The Dennehy name has been in the motor industry a long time and we’re now well-known for being a one-stop shop with all different kinds of services.”

The CVRT Centre remains one of the most popular in the country as well, with David outlining: “We’d be testing over 600 vehicles a month and we’ve four full-time testers working here and three testing lanes in Riverside Park,” he said.

“We do a half-day on a Saturday and test late into the evening during the week as well and testing for us has been growing year on year for us for a while now.

“We’ve ISO 9001 certification – we signed up for that last year – and, as of June, we will be 1C TACO compliant.”

The service and parts department at Dennehy Commercials provides a full range of services to keep the customer’s commercial vehicle running safely and efficiently on the road.

The experienced technicians are fully qualified in all aspects of commercial vehicle maintenance and the total care philosophy at Dennehy Commercials means that we they provide a versatile maintenance package to suit a customer’s individual requirements.

Operators can select the exact level of maintenance package they require, paying only for those elements best suited to their individual operation’s needs.

Dennehy Commercials Ltd also authorised to service repair centres for MAN, ISUZU and IVECO; as well as providing specialist service for all other makes of commercial vehicles.

So if you’re in the Munster region, or ever further afield, why look elsewhere?

Dennehy Commercials offer a full range of LCV and HCV testing from their Limerick base IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Gary Lyons takes delivery of an attractive V8 from Harry McQuillan of Road Trucks

NEW ADDITIONS TO LYONS EUROPEAN LIMITED FLEET Gary Lyons of Lyons European Limited is adding four new Scania S580s to his impressive fleet this year, having already taken delivery of a magnificent S580A6X2NA from Road Trucks in Larne. his will soon be joined by three new mid-lifts, which are also being supplied by Harry McQuillan of Road Trucks.

The new trucks represent a significant capital investment by the Moira, Co. Armagh-based company which specialises in the transportation of goods to and from mainland Europe.

“Scania are the best truck on the road,” Gary says matter-of-factly.

“They won’t be beaten in terms of reliability, fuel efficiency and comfort.

When you’re delivering and collecting goods between Ireland, Britain and Europe, you need a truck you can rely on and that’s why we choose Scania. The new truck (S580A6X2NA) is our seventh

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S-cab and joins our already strong Scania V8 fleet. We bought three other S-cabs last year and I can’t say a bad word about them.”

Not surprisingly, Scania dominates Gary’s 25-strong fleet of artics. He also runs five Volvo and two MAN along with 55 trailers which are a mix of Euroliners, flatbeds, extendable flats and fridge trailers. The Euroliners, which make up the bulk of his trailers, have side loading clearance of 2.7m (2.75m through rear doors), while the flats are equipped with twist locks and vertical goalposts for added security. The refrigerated trailers are 26/33 pallet in size with dual temperature compartments.

Furthermore, every truck is fitted with

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satellite tracking which enables up-tothe-minute position information for added security and peace of mind as well as accurate times of departure / arrival.

With such a wide and varied fleet of

Lyons European Limited 9 Derrynahone Road, Moira, Co. Armagh BT69 OHR Telephone: (+44) 028 92 622959 Mobile: (+44) 077 67393255 Email: gary@lyonseuro.com Web: www.lyonseuropean.com

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Lyons European has been delivering the goods since 1997

trailers, Lyons European Limited transports everything from aircraft parts and forklifts to foodstuffs and groupage consignments. Regardless of how big or small your transport requirements are, the company is committed to providing a solution to meet your needs. Whatever your needs, it aims to satsify your deadlines and achieve optimum results every time.

“We offer full and part load driver accompanied services to and from any European country for temperaturecontrolled produce and dry freight goods,” Gary explains.

“We are a well-established business that prides ourselves on providing our customers with a first-class and costeffective service. We have many years’ experience transporting goods within Europe and have worked hard to build up a large and loyal customer-base in that time. Fortunately, we aren’t reliant on just one of two customers for work.

“Our aim is to deliver our customers’ goods on time and in perfect condition by operating a modern fleet which is constantly maintained by our inhouse technicians and is upgraded on a regular basis.”

Lyons European Limited employs 35 staff, including 25 drivers who have a wealth of experience travelling across Europe and have an excellent

Scania dominates the 25-strong fleet of artics

One of Lyons European’s stunning new Scanias

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Best wishes to Lyons European Ltd

Best Wishes To Lyons European Ltd

18 Aghnatrisk Road, Hillsborough BT26 6JJ Tel : 02892 688338 Mob : 07710 182622 E : stephen@nirvanatyres.com www.nirvanatyres.com 84

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Lyons European always goes the extra mile for its customers

knowledge of the rules and regulations that govern each country.

“We have a very low turnover of staff, many of whom have been with us for years. About 80% of our workforce are longterm. For example, Nelson Rodger has been driving for us for 21 years, and his brother Iain has been with us for 20 years.

Our drivers, mechanics and office staff deliver the high level of service that our customers have come to expect of us,” the affable managing director adds.

The goods are shipped from Belfast with Stena Line to Britain and on to the Continent. Most of the goods are destined for France, Belgium, Holland, Germany, Italy and Spain, but some go much further. “We cover as far away as Israel,” says Gary, who doesn’t expect Brexit to have an adverse effect on his business.

“If the UK leaves Europe, we would have deal with customs checks, but our business won’t be affected because 99% of it is done in Europe. Despite the uncertainly surrounding Brexit, business is buoyant and we have plenty of work to be getting on with.”

Gary set up Lyons European Limited in October 1997, having inherited his passion from his uncles who ran Jameson Transport. The company was originally based in Lisburn where it was mainly involved in freight forwarding. Within a year, Gary purchased his first Scania truck and moved to a larger premises in Lisburn in 1999. After a steady period of growth, Lyons European Limited relocated to its current base on the

Derrynahone Road outside Moira – which is just off the M1 Motorway – in 2003. The purpose-built premises offers modern office accommodation with full workshop facilities as well as a spacious yard for transhipping and storage.

As a family-run concern, Lyons European Ltd always goes the extra mile for its customers. Clients have witnessed first-hand the dedication and commitment that the Lyons’ team have to get the job done. No job is too big or too small for this exceptional haulage firm which continues to go from strength to strength.

No bridge is too far for Lyons European

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A stunning lineup - Steele’s Fuel Freight fleet in all it’s glory

FUELLING NORTHERN IRELAND SINCE 2002

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Steele’s Fuel Freight Ltd is a leading family-run oil distribution business based in Larne, Co. Antrim.

nitially set up as Steele’s Fuel Freight in 2002 by Daniel Steele, it became a limited company 10 years later and continues to go from strength to strength by distributing oil fuel across Ulster. Distributors are the link in the service chain which join oil suppliers with domestic, farming and commercial consumers. Operating to the highest standards of safety and fuel quality, while offering consumers great value-for-money, Steele’s Fuel Freight Ltd prides itself on providing an efficient and top-class service. The company also boasts a reputation for honesty and transparency.

Coming up on his 60th birthday, Daniel Steele has held a HGV licence for over 35 years, having been involved in the oil fuel distribution industry for most of that time. He worked as a long-distance driver in England and Europe for five years before joining Conoco Oil where he spent 16 years learning about the oil distribution business, developing his customer service skills and honing his skills as a driver.

Following his redundancy in 2002, he set up Steele’s Fuel Freight Ltd where he

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has established a solid customer-base and shared his expertise as a driver and of the industry with his employees and customers. Daniel’s team of drivers have over 100 years’ combined experience in the oil distribution business. Each of his five drivers maintain their knowledge and skills by attending annual training. In February 2015, Steele’s Fuel Freight Ltd became an SQA approved centre for PDP Driver Practical Assessments.

Daniel, whose wife Maureen is also a director of the company, runs a fleet five Volvo FM Globetrotter lorries and four petroleum tankers. The lorries consist of three FM-460s, a FM-440 and a brandnew FM-500, 6x2 Globetrotter which the company took delivery of from Dennison Commercials in Ballyclare in April. His sons Daniel Jnr and Martin are also involved in the business.

“It’s the third Volvo we’ve bought new from Dennison Commercials and we’re very happy with it. Volvo are a great truck and Dennison Commercials provide an outstanding aftersales service. It’s vital to have good backup when you’re providing a 24/7 service. We can’t afford to have any breakdowns,” Daniel explains.

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Having excellent suppliers is essential to the running of a business such as Steele’s Fuel Freight Ltd, and with this in mind, Daniel has always used Charles Hurst Ltd, Belfast and A One Tyres, Dromore, Co Down, for the supply and fitting of wheels and tyres. Both companies provide excellent, reliable service and keep the lorries on the road.

Daniel has used Michelin tyres since setting up in business.

The main products Steele’s Fuel Freight Ltd deliver are kerosene, gas oil,

Steele’s Fuel Freight Ltd 28 Whinfield, Larne, BT40 2LD. Telephone / Fax: 028 2827 5045 Mobile: 0776 647 8233 Email: sales@steelesfuelfreightltd.co.uk Web: www.steelesfuelfreightltd.co.uk

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Steele's Fuel Freight prides itself on providing an efficient and top-class service

A familiar sight on Northern Irish roads since 2002

derv and petrol. The fuels are collected from the Puma Energy, Inter Terminals (formerly NuStar) and Valero terminals in Belfast Port and distributed to domestic and commercial oil suppliers across the province. Kennedy Fuels in Ballymena, Co. Antrim, Safe Fuels in Camlough and Keady, both Co. Armagh, Toner Fuels in Kilrea, Co. Derry, Fuel Lubricants in Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, McHugh Fuels in Ederney, Co. Fermanagh, James Fitzpatrick Fuels in Kilcoo, Co. Down, Strangford Fuels in Downpatrick, Co. Down and Milligan Oil in Ardglass, Co. Down, Alan

Lyttle, Larne, Co Antrim and Morgan Fuels, Newry, Co Armagh are among the company’s regular customers.

“We have built up very strong relationships with our customers down through the years. When they call, we deliver,” says Daniel, whose parking facility in Mallusk is within easy reach of Belfast Port.

Since starting the business, Daniel has benefited from expert accountancy advice and guidance from Moore Stephens, Larne branch, who have advised him and guided him from day one as a sole trader and through the transition to a

The fuels are collected from terminals at Belfast Port

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limited company.

As an SQA (Scottish Qualifications Authority) approved centre for PDP Driver Practical Assessments, Steele’s Fuel Freight Ltd provides practical assessment for petroleum tanker drivers who must have a PDP (Petroleum Driver Passport).

The PDP scheme sets a benchmark in competency against which all road tanker drivers who are loading, transporting and offloading petroleum fuel products in road tankers in the UK are measured.

Competency is assessed using both classroom and practical techniques.

A qualified PDP instructor, Daniel works in conjunction with Gareth Dunn of Dunne Training Solutions in Belfast. Gareth has been involved with the transport industry throughout his life, with his parents establishing their family road haulage company in 1972. Gareth worked in the family business as a transport manager before progressing into training and consultancy within the transport sector. His purposebuilt training facility is located on the

This magnificent Volvo FM-500 6x2 Globetrotter is the latest addition to the fleet

Ravenhill Road in Belfast.

“I provide the practical assessment, while Gareth provides the classroom training,” explains Daniel.

“Oil tanker work is very specialised and that’s why those involved in it have to

have a PDP. Gaining a PDP isn’t easy.

Candidates have to put the work in to get one. Health & Safety and contamination are huge issues. There is no margin for error with either,” the affable fuel distributor concludes.

Best wishes to Steele’s Fuel Freight Ltd

Best Wishes To Steele’s Fuel Freight, From

Best wishes to Steele’s Fuel Freight

home heating oil... “FUELCARD SERVICES” Distributor of Home Heating Oil • Commercial Fuel Lubricants Ballymena Tel: 028 2565 6616 Larne, Carrick & Ballyclare Tel: 028 9334 4700 Ballymoney Tel: 028 7032 6080 www.wrkennedy.com

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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