Irish Trucker magazine October 2011

B-Fast celebrate 25 years Experience is gained through the length of time that a company is operational and on that front, there is not many to rival B-Fast Courier and Haulage Company who this year are celebrating their 25th anniversary. BFast is a L'Derry-based ground and air Courier & Haulage Company offering an Ireland and UK-wide courier service, as well as a full range of international and worldwide forwarding services, airfreight, and sea - the local one-stop-shop for logistics and freight movements. B-Fast has acquired a name for attention to detail in the Courier, Haulage, and Storage business sectors. Our continued goal is to build genuine long term relationships with our customers through flexibility in adapting to our client's needs, with customer satisfaction our number one objective.

Bridie and Terry Quigley have worked hard to make the business a success

G

etting it right first time� - these days every decision has to be given the utmost consideration with regards to business as unfortunately one wrong decision could prove detrimental to a company's future. For this month's

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edition of Irish Trucker, we profile the Co Derry based company and speak to managing director Terry Quigley about the success of the business.

Beginning with one small courier van and growing ever since to fleets of more than 30 vehicles ranging from

fully secured and insured courier vans, Hi-Abs and 17 tonne rigid Lorries allowing B-Fast to offer a wide variety of cost effective distribution solutions.

In modern society that is an amazing achievement given the trials and tribulations everyone involved in the IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

haulage industry has had to endure, especially in recent times, when rising fuel costs and lower rates are just two of the areas that have crippled the sector.

From humble beginnings in 1986, B-Fast has been remodeled by Terry, with his wife Bridie, into one of the leading courier services in Northern Ireland; the company growing considerably and these days provides a number of efficient and reliable services.

Initially specialising in the delivery of car and truck parts, B-Fast has an extensive knowledge of the courier trade and now transport a wide range of goods for a customer private and public sector base that is strengthening by the year. Operating throughout the Ireland as well as mainland UK and Europe; B-Fast offers a worldwide service.

“The Company developed out of the need for a competent courier to travel daily between the two major cities (and routes along the way) of Derry and Belfast, we are proud of our reputation for reliability, speed and customer service.” revealed Terry.

“This service involved daily routes with Multi-drops / Multi-collections; Same Day and Overnight deliveries; Express Pallet Distribution; Contract

signify that the company is regarded as a valued supplier at all levels within the logistics sector. B Fast can demonstrate compliance to various accreditation specifications requested by Governmental policy, obtaining certification in ISO: 9001 and accreditation to ISO 14001.

Indeed, one of their most famous clients is musician Phil Coulter.

“We brought sound equipment to New Zealand for Phil one Jack McLaughlin has many years experience as a van driver time, but regardless of whom the customer is or how big or small the Logistics (short & long-term). We have company is, everyone will be afforded since been catering for the local the same level of service and this is business community; including local something that we pride ourselves on.” retailers / wholesalers; solicitors; B-Fast offer a wide range of services accountants; motor factors; builder's including express pallet distribution, merchants; engineering / which is a low-cost dedicated service manufacturing companies; and to satisfy all the customer's pallet Government offices.” transport requirements - with a first B Fast have expanded and been class, on-time pallet, delivery success awarded several prestigious contracts rate. within the public-sector and work in Multi-drops and Multi-collections are partnership with these high value another string to B-Fast's bow and this customers to achieve their goals, reduces administration and delivery these customers include NI costs for multiple location deliveries by Government, health care services and

B-Fast offer a daily Derry to Dublin service

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

43

assigning Terry and his team to plan and execute a multidrop schedule using a single or multiple vehicles. The clients receive many types of repetitive deliveries, on a daily basis. Whether it is daily warehouse sweeps, interoffice deliveries or more, B-Fast is ready to be there when you need them.

“Our Express Package Delivery allows our customers to save on all their domestic transport and distribution; everything from small parcel packages, letters, envelopes, up to large freight. B-Fast personally hand-deliver, safely and speedily, sensitive items, e.g. Tender Documentation; Confidential Post; Business Samples; Lightweight Goods;

Bridie ensures that all administration is looked after properly

Terry established the business 25 years ago

Classified documents; and light/medium weight parcels.

“We also offer business contracts, short or long term.

With the experience we have, we understand what it means to be an extension of your company and to represent you in the best possible way. If you want to impress individuals within larger corporations, you can arrange for our staff to deliver straight to the recipient's office.”

With a fleet of 38 modern and specialist vehicles to provide logistic solutions for all fleet requirements, transport management is key to the success of this business and Terry revealed that the fleet is kept well maintained and freshened up every few years. “We would be operating throughout Ireland, the UK and the Continent, so the fleet would be constantly on the go and it is

Danny Gallen loads cargo for delivery

KMC

Continued Best Wishes To B-Fast Courier From

TYRES & BATTERIES

STOCKISTS OF LEADING BRANDS WHOLESALE & RETAIL Unit 17, Springtown Ind Est., Londonderry, BT48 OLY

Tel: 028 7130 8213 • Fax: 028 7130 9213 Wishing Best Wishes To B-Fast Courier From

D&H MOTORS

FLEET MAINTENANCE

Car Commercial PSV/ MOT and Servicing also electrical diagnostic work for all makes and models

2-10 Duncrue Rd., Belfast

Tel: 028 9074 5179 44

Wishing Continued Success To B-Fast Courier IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

packed and stored in essential that we keep them in wooden crates for excellent condition. That is why we safekeeping and ease tend to upgrade every five years, of tracking. Our during which time they are still under Warehouse facility has warranty.” an approved intruder A member of the Road Haulage and fire alarm system Association from 2003, B-Fast has which is linked to a been accredited within this central station. professional body due to its dedication Supervised 5 days a and customer service. “We feel that week 8am to 7pm and this proves our willingness to ensure 9am to 12 noon customer satisfaction and ability to Saturday, with forklifts meet clients' expectations.” available at these As this is a people orientated times (access outside business, Terry is proud of the 45 these hours by people employed by the company. arrangement).”

“We would have a very low turnover Finally, Terry adds of staff and many of them would be “We have total with us years now. They are the ownership of all people out meeting the customers on Projects under our a daily basis and they represent the control, securing and company very well. From the office protecting them for the staff to the drivers, I'm delighted with totality of the projects' the efforts they have put in over the lifetime. We do not years. All staff are trained (at present contract out any stage to NVQ 2) and competent with a of our Projects as our strong commitment to customer intention, as with all service within the sectors that B Fast our business, is that operate and he acknowledges that our customers have without a loyal workforce, the business instant access to all would not be what it is today. All B our key players 24/7 Fast personnel are Access NI data that is a promise and checked, and further checked through a commitment - we Baseline Personal Security Standard are always available”.

(BPSS) to work on NI Civil Service contracts.

Storage and warehousing is another specialised COMPANY D service that the company ETAILS provides and the most modern of technology is B-Fast Courie r & Haulage C used to monitor all ompany 8c Ballougry Rd products and goods stored Derry at the 10,000sq ft BT48 9XJ premises on the Tel: 02871 26 6 117 Letterkenny Road. “All items stored at B-fast can Email: bfast@ courierireland. be logged and coded for com ease of tracking. Smaller items for storage can be

No load is too big or small for this company

Best Wishes To B-Fast Courier From

Unit B, 44 Springtown Rd., Springtown Ind Est., BT48 OGH

Telephone: 028 71 37 3117

The fleet is kept in pristine condition

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

45

Moving with the times One of Ireland's premier truck and bus fleet maintenance specialists is upping sticks and moving to a new location over the coming months as Ringroad Ltd enhances its reputation as a leader in its field of expertise.

Ringroad are truck and bus fleet maintenance specialists

F

ounded in 1999 by managing director Shay Murphy, the company has developed over the years and the experienced garnered during that period has played no small part in the success of Ringroad Ltd. Headquartered in Rathcoole, the business expanded to include locations at Kingswood in Dublin and Gibbstown, Navan, Co

46

Meath.

However, Shay made the decision to relocate the business this year and the headquarters will now be moved to bigger premises at Kingswood where the company already operates a DOE centre for the last two years.

Office manager Helen Callahan spoke to Irish Trucker about the move and revealed that logistically as well

as practically that it all made sense to have their wide range of services at the one location. Aside the from the DOE testing, Ringroad Ltd also provide mobile repairs, full electrical servicing, EBS programming and truck diagnostics, ABS testing, 24-hour breakdown and recovery, and tachograph and speed limiter calibration, while the Dublin based firm

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

the past 12 years.

“Business is fairly good at the moment. There is a greater emphasis placed on maintenance now then there was in the past. Hauliers and bus operators are not upgrading their fleets as much as they use too, which is understandable, given the nature of the economy at the moment.

“So more and more are turning their attention to keeping their fleets well maintained so that they can operate them for a longer period. We have the experience and the equipment to carry out any sort of maintenance work and the staff here are highly trained in what they do.”

Over the years, the company has focused more on moving with the times and to do so they have had to add the technology to their portfolio in order to carry out their services to the highest order and they are fully approved and authorized by the likes of WABCO, Knorr-Bremse, Haldex, Brakemaster and Stoneridge Tachographs.

“We would have all the technology in place and Shay is

Helen Callaghan and Marie Murphy in the Rathcoole office

Transpec are delighted to be associated with Ringroad Ltd and wish them continued success

Dublin Office Unit 11, Block B, Kingswood Business Park, Baldonnell Road Lower, Dublin 22 Tel: 01 4642002 Fax: 01 4643112 Mobile: 086 7737890 Limerick Office Unit 8 Rosmadda Business Park, Ballysimon Road, Limerick Tel: 061 437932 The busy Ringroad facility in Navan

is widely known for its ABS, EBS, air brake and clutch specialist and has the expertise to service and repair any commercial vehicle. In the last few years, they have also been appointed sole distributers of Schneider alluwood lightweight box bodies.

“We are hoping to make the move over a period of time and cause as little disruption to the business as possible.

We won't be closing down at any stage during the transition period, so customers can be assured of receiving the same level of service as normal,” said Helen.

“Shay decided that it would make more sense to join the Dublin premises together and there was more room to expand at Kingswood. He has acquired a premise right next door to the DOE Test Centre and this virtually means we are a one-stop shop, which is a lot easier for the customer and indeed ourselves.”

Helen revealed that despite the current economic recession, Ringroad Ltd is working hard to ensure that the continue to provide the level of service that their large customer base has become accustomed to over IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Best Wishes To Ringroad Ltd From

47

Auto Start Auto Electrical Ltd.

STL LOGISTICS

Continued Success To Ringroad Ltd.

Main Street, Rathcoole, Co. Dublin Tel: (01) 4589133 • Fax: (01) 4587023 Mobile: (086) 2523881 • (087) 2523881 Best Wishes & Continued Success To

RINGROAD LTD.

Continued Best Wishes To Ringroad Ltd From

Little North Street, Swords, Co. Dublin.

Phone - 01 8 40 80 60 Fax - 01 8 40 80 67 Email: info@oloughlin.ie www.olig.ie O’Loughlin Insurance Group is regulated by the Central Bank Of Ireland

Shannon Transport & Warehouse Company T/A STL Logistics, Logistics Centre, Annacotty Business Park,Annacotty,Limerick.

Tel +353 61 200200 Fax +353 61 200271 www.stllogistics.ie

Wishing Continued Success To Ringroad Ltd Suppliers of Auto Parts For Car & Light Commercials Unit 3, “Aran Centre” Blessington Business Park, Blessington, Co. Wicklow T: 045 857 999 • F: 045 857 499 Mobile: 087 1344496

www.cjautoparts.ie

Continued Best Wishes To Ringroad Ltd, From

WRECKTIFY Private & Commercial Crash Repairs Units 4-5, Atlantic House, Oldmilltown, Naas Road, Kill, Co.Kildare Tel: 045 878156 • Fax: 045 878154 Contact David Pluck on 087 2602930 Email: wrecktify@ymail.com Wishing Continued Success To Ringroad Ltd From

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& LIGHT COMMERCIALS 48

www.autoradsdirect.ie

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

not afraid to move with the times, it is essential to do this, otherwise the business will be left behind in the market as there is plenty of competition out there.”

Regular clients include Bus Eireann, Avis Truck Rentals, Shannon Transport, PRL Group, Cosgrave Transport, Bradco Haulage, Plantmaster amongst others. They also do mobile work for Northern Ireland companies on breakdowns in the south and they have contacts Europe-wide for the breakdown/recovery service.

Employing 19 people in total means that the customer's enquiries will be dealt with promptly and efficiently, while they can be guaranteed that the level of service and competitive rates are rivaled by very few.

Ringroad Ltd. can cater for any size of fleet - from a single vehicle up to 100 units. They are also authorised to carry out warranty work for both WABCO and Knorr-Bremse. So, no customer is too big or small and all will be dealt with the same level of respect.

They are also the experts in ABS and EBS and regularly take calls from all over the country for help on various ABS and EBS systems. They are recognised nationwide for their expertise in this area and they work very hard to continuously provide a high-quality service and training to workshops. Ringroad Ltd also do a lot of retro-fitting of ABS and EBS systems and we can actually provide that service mobile.”

Helen admits that the move is the biggest project on the cards in 2011, but maintaining the level of service that they provide is just as important or even more so to this customer orientated company.

“As I said the move will take place over a period of time in order to cause the least amount of disruption for our customers.” It's an exciting time for Ringroad Ltd and all their customers as they look forward to a bright future together.

Ringroad have offices in Meath and Dublin

ETAILS D Y N A COMP ited ad Lim Ringro Navan -9054468 6 Tel: 04 13643 l: 01-40 e T n li Dub m.net @eirco d a o r g rin Email:

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

49

Some of the fleet at Eagle Motors headquarters

The Eagle flys In the service and repair game for over 20 years now, Eagle Motors in Mullingar is still going strong. Irish Trucker spoke to the company’s Managing Director, James Moran, to find out the latest.

T

he service and repair game is just about as demanding an industry there is, and for almost a quarter of a century now the Moran family at Eagle Motors in Mullingar are continuing to make it work.

The business was set up by founder Jimmy Moran and specialises in repair and servicing of trucks, trailers, vans and cars. Their customer base has grown considerably over the years, so much so that they moved into a bigger premises five years ago in the

50

Mullingar Business Park (the correct address now is Eagle Motors, Zone C Mullingar Business Park, Mullingar, Co Westmeath).

However, Jimmy built his first garage at the family homestead in 1974, trading under ‘Moran’s Garage’, where he specialised in maintenance and repairs of cars and tractors. In 1989, he established ‘Eagle Motors’ and 12 months later the business moved to Mullingar, where things really took off.

By this stage Jimmy’s eldest son

Declan was on board and Eagle Motors then began specialising in repair and servicing of trucks, trailers, vans, jeeps and cars.

Jimmy’s son James spoke to us about the company’s origins and gives an insight to how they have become one of the leading garages in the midlands area.

With advanced vehicle technology rapidly becoming standard-fit on the modern motor and commercial vehicles, workshops increasingly need IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

technical support to be able to offer a professional and profitable service to their customers.

“Certainly times have changed and the make up of cars and trucks has are very much different; the work now is far more technical than it use to be,” said James.

He revealed that their reputation for providing a top quality and efficient service is the main reason why they have such a large customer base.

“Most of the work that we have secured has come about as a result of ‘word of mouth’ from one customer to another and I find that this is the best form of advertising. If you are providing a reliable service that the customers are happy with, then that will attract new business.

“A lot of work centres around trailers and this is an area that we specialise in, there are not many other companies around that do that and we have a lot of trailers coming in for repair work.”

Some companies can be found dragging their heels when it comes to IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

moving with the times, but Eagle Motors certainly can’t be accused of this. This is one of the main reasons that they have been so successful and look set to continue to do so for some time to come.

James stressed that they also have a number of private customers and owner drivers, who are treated the same as the bigger companies, which he feels is an important aspect of the business.

“We have a wide variety of customers from large firms to owner drivers. To us, there is no difference.

We don’t turn away any work and ensure that the job is completed to a high standard in quick time,” said James.

The company boss knows that downtime is something that can be a thorn in the side of all hauliers or van drivers and James revealed that Eagle Motors offer a round the clock call out service for their customers.

“No one likes to have their vehicle off the road for too long as it is not making money while it’s lying idle. We

understand this and try to ensure a job is done as quickly as possible, while also ensuring that it is done right,” he stated.

“We have five recovery vehicles for emergencies, while we also do some on-site work for the customers. There is always someone on call 24 hours a day and this is appreciated by the clients that we cater for.”

Another string to the bow of Eagle Motors is that James also uses his contacts in the business to buy vehicles for some of his customers.

“We do a bit of truck and van sales,” explained the Mullingar native. “If one of my customers comes to me looking for a vehicle then I usually can find something that suits them. I’ve been doing that for a few years now and it works pretty well.

“There is also a comprehensive parts department here where we stock plenty of stuff and lads can come in and buy the across the counter. If we don’t have a part, we will ensure to have it later on that day or first thing the next morning, depending on when

51

Eagle Motors is based in Mullingar, Co. Westmeath

it is looked for.”

James revealed that the employees were highly trained and that they could deal with any eventuality with regards to truck and trailer repairs.

“We have a reliable staff here. There are five employed in total and everyone knows there role and all have the experience to deal with any problems, which is reassuring

for us and the customers,” he confirmed.

“The location of our business has really helped us as most of our regulars are based in this locality. As I said before, we are here to provide an efficient service and we have no problem working on in the evenings to get a job completed.”

For the time being, James is quite happy to maintain the level of business that they provide for as he feels that this is not the period to be making drastic changes.

“The safest option at the moment is to hold on to what we have. We have a large customer base with a lot of repeat work and if that is maintained, I’d be happy enough. A lot of money has been spent on the new premises COMP A and there will be no further DETAI NY changes for the time being LS anyway.”

Eagle M Eagle Motors is open from Mulling otors a Monday to Friday 8.30am to Co. We r stmeath 7.00pm and from 8.00am to 2.00pm on Saturdays, ensuring Tel: 04 4 8500 0 that their customers can avail of a time which suits them.

Wishing Continued Success To Eagle Motors From

Ray Quinn HAULAGE

Specialise In Bulk Haulage • Tipper Trailers Walk In Floors Ruthall, Steete, Co. Westmeath 087 9494649 52

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Wishing Continued Success To Eagle Motors From

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Eagle Motors From

SPECIALISING IN CALOR GAS CYLINDER DISTRIBUTION Ballycomoyle,Castlepollard, Co. Westmeath

Tel/Fax: (044) 9661517 Best Wishes & Continued Success To Eagle Motors From All At

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BR Transport

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www.irishtrucker.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Best Wishes to Eagle Motors 53

Some of the truck fleet at Glanbia Plc

Still going strong With strong positions in key food markets and sectors around the world, Irish headquartered plc Glanbia continues to have an ongoing investment programme to expand operations in this country and others. Irish Trucker spoke to the company’s Transport Development Manager, Cormac McCarthy, at their Citywest base in Dublin to find out more.

S

ince its inception, the Irish head-quartered Glanbia plc group has spread itself into four segments, which are US Cheese & Global Nutritionals; Dairy Ireland; Joint Ventures and Associates and Other Business.

With over 4,300 employees worldwide, including joint ventures and associations, Glanbia has manufacturing and processing facilities in seven different countries, along with

54

sales and technical support locations in 14 countries.

The company’s core business is in Food Ingredients & Nutritionals and is largely based on having access to a series of large dairy milk pools, which are processed into a range of cheese and dairy products. Derived from these scale processing operations is a large valuable whey stream which, with the application of complementary ingredients and technologies, creates

a further product range of high margin nutritional ingredients, focused on high growth markets.

At present Glanbia has three business segments - US Cheese & Global Nutritionals, Dairy Ireland and Other Business. The company itself also has three major international joint ventures. These are Southwest Cheese in the USA, Glanbia Cheese in the UK and Nutricima in Nigeria, as well as several smaller Irish-based IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

The Avonmore co-operative was named after the Avon river which flows through Callan, Co. Kilkenny

joint ventures and associates throughout the country.

In March of last year, Glanbia’s Dairy Ireland looked set for a power shift after the Group announced that Glanbia Co-operative Society Limited, its 54.6% shareholder, had expressed an interest in acquiring its operations.

However, following a special general meeting that May, the transaction did not go ahead as it did not receive the required approval of Society members.

Organised around two different business models, Glanbia has one division for the US Cheese and Global Nutritionals and one for the Dairy Ireland division. The business models are strategically aligned and are strengthened by the Group’s key joint ventures in the USA, the UK and Nigeria.

Over the last five years, Glanbia have managed to successfully develop their Global Nutritionals business through organic growth and acquisition. This year one of the company’s main objectives is to integrate BSN into their Performance Nutrition business and drive the ON and BSN brands forward, particularly internationally. On a performance 2010 IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Avonmore Milk and Waterford Foods merged to create Glanbia Plc

basis, including the acquisition of BSN, Global Nutritionals now represents approximately 23 per cent of the Group’s total revenue, including Joint Ventures & Associates. It is a scale business, with well developed

science-based innovation capability and leading market positions.

The Dairy Ireland segment of the company manufactures milk and dairy products. The company feels that EU market reform is creating new

55

The Avonmore truck is a familiar sight throughout Ireland

opportunities for growing milk supply, and therefore know that Ireland has a natural grassland advantage that can be exploited. The abolition of the quota system in April 2015 will be the first opportunity for Glanbia to expand milk output since 1984 and the expansion is underpinned by growing global demand for dairy products supported by demographics and emerging economies.

The Group’s Citywest base in Dublin

goes under the title Glanbia Consumer Foods.

Glanbia Consumer Foods Ireland focuses on nutritious beverages, fresh diary products and cheeses, soups and spreads. It has 10 facilities throughout Ireland and has Number One market positions in fresh milk, fresh cream, fruit yoghurt, fromage frais and fresh soups.

The company’s other Leinster operations are based in Wexford,

Kilkenny, Kildare and Louth and employ approximately 650 people across many departments, including Operations, Research, Marketing, Finance, HR and Engineering.

Cormac McCarthy’s role at Glanbia Consumer Foods is Transport Development Manager and it’s one he’s held for the past three years.

In May 2009, shortly after Cormac took up the position, set up a logistics solution using voice-directed handheld

Best Wishes To Glanbia, From

HAULAGE Colt, Ballyroan, Portlaoise, Co. Laois

Tel: 087 2591876 E: larryhearns@eircom.net

Best Wishes & Continued Success From Derek McGreal & Jim McGovern & All The Staff At

COLDCUT LOGISTICS 56

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Best Wishes To Glanbia From

JDM Transport Ltd Colbinstown, Dunlavin, Co. Kildare Email: jdmtransport@ireland.com Telephone: 045 403317• Fax: 045 403924

Mobile: 087 2693517

MIDLAND TYRES

Continued Success To Glanbia From

Clementines Distributors of All Glanbia Dairy Products Tobernafauna, Piltown, Co. Kilkenny Telephone: 086 8890517 Telephone: 086 4119785 Wishing Glanbia Continued Success In The Future From

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Continued Best Wishes to

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Congratulations & Best Wishes To Glanbia From

Eugene Woods GLANBIA MILK AGENT

The Commons, Townrath, Drogheda, Co. Louth Telephone: 086 2361885

Wishing Continued Success To Glanbia From

Dick Nolan

Transport

Refrigerated Transport Dundalk, Co. Louth

T: 042 9371085 M: 087 6781146

Continued Best Wishes To Glanbia From

MURPHY COMMERCIALS LTD. Monaughrim, Clonegal, Co. Carlow Tel: 059 9155665 Fax: 059 9155805

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

57

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Glanbia From

Crowley Transport GENERAL HAULAGE ALAN CROWLEY Transport Manager Behernagh Lower, Kildinan, Co. Cork.

Telephone: 086 3805115 • Email: crowleytransport@gmail.com Continued success to all at Glanbia, from

Best Wishes To Glanbia From

DUFFY DAIRY DISTRIBUTION LTD. Contact Sean Duffy Church Rd., Aghamore, Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo.

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Wishing Continued Success To Glanbia From

Best wishes to all in Glanbia, from

REFRIGERATED TRANSPORT

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Directors:

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Dunleer, Co. Louth

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Tel: 087 2524119

Tel: 087-2714668

Email: kendtransport@gmail.com

To Book Advertising Space or enquire about completing a Feature IRIS

& LIG

H

MERCI HT COM

ALS

20075 May No. Vol. 10 .£1.60 2.50 stg EURO

IRISH & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Best Wishes & Continued Success To Glanbia 58

March Vol. 102007 No. 3 EURO 2.50

contact

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

Denis Conway, Logistics Manager Glanbia, receiving a CILT Environmental Award for its delivery operation

PCs in a seven-figure deal. The system, in four of Glanbia's Irish divisions, was provided by warehousing systems specialist Heavey RF of Dublin.

Heavey RF would replaced Glanbia's manual system in two warehousing sites and two manufacturing sites, where the new technology is integrated with the company's SAP system, and has reportedly shown a significant increase in productivity while bringing accuracy close to 100 per cent.

Glanbia's Transport Development Manager said at the time: "The new system has surpassed our expectations. A massive amount of information is provided in real-time, which is invaluable as we can see exactly what's happening and where we need to reposition our resources."

The new system has improved production planning and also labour planning within Glanbia. All available warehouse resources can be focused on key tasks and workloads can be quickly altered to ensure that Glanbia can respond instantly to its customers evolving demands.

“We operate a 24-hour shift cycle and can now accurately calculate the number of staff needed per shift to fulfil every order,” Cormac explained. “Before we could only estimate how many operatives were needed, which led to excess workers on some shifts.”

He added: “My own role here is to co-ordinate the route and to organise all bulk haulage to the market place, through our own fleet to our agent network. We’d have approximately 400 agents available around the country, so we would gave a fairly substantial fleet.”

With a substantial fleet, comes substantial costs and Cormac admits that significant rise in fuel costs over the past 12 months has had an impact on the company, its competitors and customers.

“They have had a massive impact,” said the Transport Development Manager. “Obviously with the rise in prices the cost of services has had to go up and that’s had an impact on everyone business for everyone including ourselves.”

However, despite the rising costs in fuel and the spiralling economic downturn, Cormac remains as positive as ever business at Glanbia Consumer Foods will stay strong into the future.

“We do see our root to market as a strength and a competitive advantage,” he said. “We see it as something that will stand to us and we are well placed to survive going into the long-term.”

Good to hear.

COMP ANY D ETAILS Glanbia Consu

3008 L mer Fo a ods Ire City W ke Drive land e Dublin st Business P 24 ark Tel: +3 5 Email: 3 1 4881000 consum erfoods hr@gla nbia.ie

The Avonmore Cremeries Federation was first formed in 1967

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Commercial deliveries of up to 37,000 litres can be accommodated

Fuelling your business needs For nearly 50 years, Co. Tyrone-based Scott’s Fuels has been supplying fuel and lubricants to customers throughout Ireland. Managing director Robert Scott explains more.

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stablished in 1954, Scott’s Fuels is one of Ireland’s leading suppliers of fuel and lubricants. Based in Co. Tyrone, this successful family-run business offers a complete lubricants package throughout all of Ireland and fuel in Northern Ireland.

RDCO-approved, the company supplies kerosene heating oil, gas oil for agricultural and commercial use as well as diesel and petrol for road fuel. Scott’s deliver domestic and small volume deliveries up to 18,000 litres throughout Tyrone and Fermanagh, and commercial deliveries up to 37,000 litres throughout Northern Ireland.

In addition, the company offers a complete range of highquality Fuchs and SLS lubricating oils and greases along with Greenox Adblue.

“We cover Northern Ireland for fuel deliveries and the whole of Ireland for lubricants,” managing director Robert

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Scott explains.

“Our head office is located in Beragh, which is four miles from Omagh, and we also have depots on the Gortin Road in Omagh and in Belfast. We have a long list of customers from all over Ireland and between the fuel and lubricants, we supply everyone from domestic customers to wholesalers and filling stations.”

Scott’s Fuels has come a long way since its foundation by Robert’s grandfather Thomas (who’s now deceased) nearly half a century ago. Along with his father Edward, Robert has built up the company into a nationwide operation that employs 20 staff. Scott’s have a fleet of 10 delivery trucks, which are predominantly Scania.

“We’ve been using Scania since 2007 and have found them to be the most reliable and economical truck out there.

While we sub-contract a lot of our wholesale delivery work, IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Hail, rain or snow, Scotts Fuels will get to their customers

our own trucks still put up big mileage and you are going nowhere if they’re not reliable,” Robert says.

Scott’s Fuels has a reputation as an honest, ethical and trustworthy company which prides itself on its ability to provide a helpful, efficient and competitively priced service.

The company operates a fast and efficient delivery network to ensure its customers gets the service they need, when they need it. This is why the company is confident it can provide products and services to meet the most demanding of needs.

Scott’s can offer a complete package of high-quality fuels, lubricants and greases all under the one account at competitive prices so that you do not have to waste time and money sourcing different items in different places. Their lubricants business has grown into one of the largest in Ireland, supplying the agricultural, industrial, automotive, power and metal working sectors to name but a few. They stock equivalents for Shell, Castrol, Esso, Mobil, Gem, Valvoline, Total, Texaco, Maxol and other leading brands of lubricants.

They are also a major supplier of high-quality domestic, commercial and industrial fuels at competitive IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

rates. Robert and his staff are constantly reviewing their prices and services to ensure you get value for money.

Scott’s products and services are delivered by experienced, highly-skilled and friendly staff. The company’s trucks, which are white in colour and are a familiar sight on Irish roads, meet all the regulations required to ensure safe transit and delivery of product. Their meters are calibrated and certified by weights and measures to ensure you get the correct amount of fuel on each delivery. Each delivery docket is stamped verifying the quantity delivered along with the start and finish times of the delivery. In addition, the Scott fleet meets Euro 4 emission regulations to ensure the best for the environment.

Scott’s offer a complete service to farmers for their fuel and lubricants needs. Whether they’re looking for home heating oil, red diesel or lubricants for their machinery and equipment, Scott’s can supply it.

The company has a commercial sales team to ensure all enquiries are dealt with properly and promptly.

They can offer professional advice on your specific needs for kerosene, ultra low sulphur gas oil, ultra low sulphur diesel or petrol.

Scotts Fuels was established in 1954 Scott’s Fuels also offer a

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remote tank gauge system which enables them to constantly monitor your fuel levels. They can arrange an automated topup or give you a call to confirm you need a delivery, ensuring convenience and peace of mind for the customer. Customers can also log onto Scott’s website www.scottsfuel.com to order fuel or make payments.

Scott’s are committed to improving the environment and constantly strive to reduce waste output and increasing energy efficiency.

With another bitterly cold winter forecast, Robert expects a high demand for home heating oil.

“The last two winters have been exceptionally cold and it looks like there is another cold one coming, so we expect to be busy. While we have all been effected by the recession, we have managed to hold our own in these testing time, thank goodness. People have to eat and keep warm and they are sacrificing luxury goods to pay for basic commodities,” he concludes.

The Scott’s Fuel sales team can be contacted between 8.30am and 5pm Monday to Friday and from 8.30am to COMPANY D ETAILS 1pm on Saturday.

For further in They have an 24formation, co ntac member of th hour automated eir sales team t a on: answer service Tel: 02882 25 31 outside of these Fax: 02882 25 00 22 hours plus an E-mail: sales@ 50 sc online order Web: www.sco ottsfuels.com ttsfuels.com service.

N.M.C. COMMERCIALS

Continued Best Wishes To Scotts Fuels

All Servicing & Repairs • Shot Blasting Spraying • Graphics • Josam Wheel Alignment MAHA Brake Testing Pre P.S.V Check Over • Rolling Road On Site 65 Kilnacart Rd., Dungannon, Co. Tyrone BT70 1PF

M: 077 1174 7039 T: 028 8775 2534 Email: niall@mccannhaulage.com www.mccannhaulage.com

The company head office is in Beragh

Charles Tennant & Co (NI) Ltd Best Wishes & Continued Success To Scotts Fuels 8 Herdman Channel Road, Belfast, BT3 9LG Tel: 028 9074 0002 Fax: 028 9075 3142

www.ctni.co.uk

Continued Best Wishes To Scotts Fuels 62

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Tel: 01924 369007 Fax: 01924 369069 Email: sales@tascatankers.ltd.uk contact: Shaun Harte (mobile) 07799 463636

www.tascatankers.ltd.uk The quality supplier of all your new road tanker requirements Parts by return Used vehicles always in stock Proud to supply Scotts Fuels Tasca Tankers Limited are pleased to announce the completion of a new 26 Tonne G.V.W. rigid type road tanker on behalf of Scotts Fuels, who operate out of Co. Tyrone The 20,000 litre capacity 5 compartment, aluminium barrel was manufactured to EN: 13094 + ADR: 2009 regulations, and was mounted onto a 4.10 metre wheelbase Scania P320, 6x2 rear steer chassis/ CP16 Cab. The vehicle was supplied with a comprehensive Alpeco proprietory equipment package comprising HLCO, BLVR, PRS and HI-SPEED electronic bulk metering systems.

Continued Best Wishes To Scotts Fuels From

WILSON McCURDY Bulk & General Haulage Local & Cross Border

230 Carnlough Rd., Broughshane, Ballymena, Co. Antrim BT42 4LX

Tel: 028 25684221 / 2568 4289

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Scotts Fuels, from

allingham transport Specialise In

CROSS CHANNEL HAULAGE NOW OFFERING CHILLED & AMBIENT WAREHOUSE SPACE 6 Grange Road, Cookstown, Co. Tyrone BT80 8SB Tel: 028 8676 2455 Fax: 028 8676 6279 Email: info@allingham-transport.com

Best Wishes To Scotts Fuels From

R.T.J. ROSS CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS REGISTERED AUDITORS

Providing Value- For - Money Professional Accountancy Services To A Wide Range Of Individuals, Businesses and Organisations For Over 30 Years 13 Holmview Terrace, Omagh, Co. Tyrone BT79 0AH

Tel: (028) 8224 5689 • Fax: (028) 8224 1767 Email: info@rtjross.co.uk IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

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Best Wishes to Wyse Transport, from TYRES & BATTERIES ALLOY WHEELS

Car • Commercial • Truck

Baldoyle Tyres,Unit 4a, Baldoyle Industrial Estate, Baldoyle,Dublin 13 Telephone : 01 839 6773 Fax : 01 839 6779 Mobile : 086 260 3443 (Philip) E : info@baldoyletyres.ie • www.baldoyletyres.ie Wishing Continued Success To Wyse Transport

Continued Best Wishes To Wyse Transport From

COARSE MOOR TRANSPORT LTD Ireland • UK • Europe Refrigerated Transport Straffan, Co. Kildare

M: 086 8035994

MIDLAND TRUCK & TRAILER SPARES SAF • MERITOR & BPW AGENTS • DAF • VOLVO • MERCEDES ETC. • LASER HAND TOOLS • TENGTOOLS

Tel: 4588266 Fax: 4588282 Mobile: 087-6286849 Best Wishes To Wyse Tranport From Commercial Body Builders & Van Fitting Services MOTOR FACTORS • WHOLESALE COACH BUILDER SUPPLIERS • GENERAL ENGINEERING SUPPLIES PANEL LINING • STORAGE SYSTEMS • WINDOW TINTING • TRUCK PARTS Unit 802, Northwest Business Park, Kilshane Avenue, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15

Telephone: 01 6278917 Fax: 01 6278918

Tel: (01) 861 2345 • 861 2030 • Fax: (01) 861 2972 E: info@cafco.ie • www.cafco.ie

NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL T R A N S P O R T

Best Wishes & Continued Success McCabe European Haulage Services To Wyse We service the following countries: Transport

E: coarsemoortransport@ eircom.net

IRELAND, UK and EUROPE Bawnogues, Straffan, Co. Kildare

Tel: + 353 1 6273737 Fax: + 353 1 6335268 E: info@dorandirect.com

www.dorandirect.com

Wishing Continued Success To Wyse Transport

France, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Belgium, Holland, Luxemburg...

83 North William St, North Strand, Dublin 1.

Tel: 01 855 9330 E: info@mccabetransport.com www.mccabetransport.com

Best Wishes to Wyse Transport From

IRISH & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Don’t be left in the dark log on to

www.irishtrucker.com 64

Truck Plant Mobile Services Ltd. Truck Fleet Maintenance/Truck Sales 44 Baldoyle Industrial Estate, Grange Road, Baldoyle, Dublin 13 Tel: 00353 1 8390594 • Fax: 00353 1 8390216 Email: truckplant@eircom.net IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Wyse Transport was established ten years ago

Wyser than ever The last few years have been turbulent times in every industry but none more so than the haulage sector, which has experienced many changes, the majority of which have not benefitted hauliers.

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ising fuel costs, aligned with lowering rates are two of the most problematic areas within the industry at the moment. It is becoming increasingly harder for transport companies to function to their desired level and only a select few are managing this at the moment.

One such company is Swords based Wyse Transport, which has ensured to keep moving with the times and delivering a professional and efficient service to its large customer base, which extends far beyond these shores.

Founded by Bernard White and Ken Maher in 2001, Wyse Transport specialises in general haulage and operates in the UK and the continent as well as Ireland.

With 25 tractor units operating on a daily basis, you can envisage the size of this operation, which takes great expertise to run.

Both Bernard and Ken have extensively knowledge of the haulage industry and that has really helped them make a huge success of the business in such a relatively short period of time. For this month's edition of Irish Trucker, we speak to Ken about the trials and tribulations of the haulage industry in modern day Ireland.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Operating in the UK and continent brings about its perils as legislation is tighter than ever and one wrong move could prove more hassle than imaginable and Ken stressed that it was essential to do everything by the book.

“There is a lot of legislation within the haulage industry anyway, but when you go abroad you have to make sure that all the paperwork is correct, otherwise you can expect long delays. In the UK at the moment, there is a big problem with cabotage, which is the national carriage of goods for hire or reward carried out by non-resident hauliers on a temporary basis in a host Member State,” revealed Ken. “VOSA are saying that free trade should be allowed, but then you have trucks being impounded for pulling loads that they claim they shouldn't be, when in fact they have every right to do so in the majority of cases.”

The Graduated Fixed Penalty scheme allows VOSA or the police to ask offending non-UK drivers for a deposit of £300 to £900 before allowing them to proceed, if found guilty of the offence, but Ken feels that if there is to be free trade, then the laws should be more lenient.

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Scania is the preferred choice of truck

“Backloads are a major part of the business and it is no use having a tractor unit and trailer sitting around doing nothing, but costing money. If there is work to be done, we should be allowed do it, without so much hassle.”

Wyse Transport's continental work sees them operate mainly in Holland, Spain, Italy and Portugal, although they are geared to travel to any part of Europe and Ken stated that a reliable workforce plays a huge part in the smooth running of the company.

“The drivers are the ambassadors of the company and they are the ones out meeting the customers on a daily basis. Without them, the company would not be where it is today and I must say we are very fortunate to have the calibre of drivers that we do. We have a very low turnover of staff and anyone that usually joins us stays for a long time.”

Wyse Transport is continually expanding its fleet of trucks, trailers and vans to suit the needs of clients. The company started from humble beginnings with just one Wyse Transport specialises in general haulage

66

truck offering a local distribution service in the capital. By re-investing and strategically growing the company, the owners were soon offering a more comprehensive nationwide, UK and continental service.

The fleet is predominantly Scania, with some DAF and Volvo models also included. The remainder is made up of 7.5 ton rigids, vans and car vans. With a large selection of 40-foot trailers, Wyse Transport can provide a complete solution.

“We would work with freight forwarders more so than the companies themselves, but we would mainly haul computer components and pharmaceutical equipment for some of the multi-national firms. We have developed a reputation for on time delivery and we ensure that customer satisfaction is of the utmost priority.

“We now carry out our own maintenance work and we have three mechanics here full time, ensuring that the fleet is kept in good condition. This has also helped cut down costs, which has been a necessity given the rise in the price of fuel and other overheads.

“Generally, the company is doing very well. Of course, we're always hoping to attract more business and we've just taken on a sales rep to hopefully drum up more interest. We'd like to fully capitalise on the trucks we have, rather than expanding the fleet further.”

Fully affiliated to the Irish Road Haulage Association and offering a comprehensive road transport service to most national and international destinations (as well as local collections/deliveries), Wyse Transport provides COMPANY D ETAILS gainful employment to a team of 31 at present and Wyse Transp ort the founders are confident Estuary House , Swords Busin that they can continue to ess Park, Swords, go from strength to County Dublin strength. “We hope to , expand,” Ken concludes. Ireland.

Contact Berna “Even though the rd White or K Maher en economy is struggling, P ho ne : 0(0353)1 81 we're planning to grow 35330 the business and secure Fax: 0(0353)1 8135335 E m ai l: info@wysetra the future for everybody nsport.com www.wysetra nsport.com associated with Wyse Transport.”

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

eFlow is not just about the M50 but meeting your tolling needs in Ireland.

With ‘The Difference is Service’ ethos eFlow has embraced a unique account management approach which includes tag/video registered accounts, online access 24/7 and dedicated agents, solely working to meet the needs of our business customers. eFlow looks forward to building on its strong relationship with Callinan Coaches and wishes them every success going forward.

Should you have any queries or wish to know more about the eFlow experience please call 1890 50 50 80 or view our website www.eflow.ie

Armstrong Commercials celebrates 20 years in business This year marks the 20th anniversary of Armstrong Commercial Vehicles’ opening in Ballymoney, Co. Antrim. In that time, the business has earned a reputation for supplying high quality previously owned trucks and refrigerated vehicles to the motor trade.

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Armstrong Commercial Vehicles has an outstanding selection to choose from

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ooking for a quality used truck or refrigerated vehicle to suit your needs? If so, Armstrong Commercial Vehicles is certainly worth a visit.

Founded in 1991 by Victor Armstrong and his wife Sylvia, this family-run business specialises in ex-PLC contract lease maintained refrigerated trailers as well as light, medium and heavy duty trucks with full service histories. Over the past two decades, the company has established a tradition of valuefor-money, reliability and total dedication to customer service.

Based in Ballymoney, Co. Antrim, Armstrong Commercial Vehicles attracts customers from both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Indeed, as much as 70 per cent of all vehicles sold by Victor are destined for the Republic.

By keeping their overheads low and buying inventory right, Armstrong Commercial Vehicles are able to pass on these savings to their customers. They stand behind all their trucks with a 30day warranty. The company source and sell only the best used trucks and commercials from England. They also source and supply vehicles to dealers and exporters, and are able to offer competitive finance

packages.

“It seems like only yesterday that we started this business. The past 20 years have flown by,” says Victor, who set up the company next door to his family home.

“When someone buys a truck from us, they know they are getting a top quality vehicle. We deal only with reputable suppliers in the UK. Because all of our stock is ex-contract vehicles, customers know they have been well looked after and have a full history. Anything we sell comes with a 30-day warranty.

“The vast majority of our stock is sourced from the south of England where the roads are, generally speaking, in better condition than in any other part of the UK. Also the trucks from that part of the UK tend to be better looked after and are more regularly serviced. In other words, the owners take great pride in their vehicles.”

Armstrong Commercial Vehicles carry a large range of the most popular trucks and refrigerated vehicles, including MAN, Iveco, Mercedes and DAF. They range in size from three-and-a-half tonne up to 26 tonne, with vehicles between seven-and-ahalf tonne and 18 tonne IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

then, of course, the accounting for most of their recession has taken its toll sales. as well. The South has If you are looking for a been harder hit than the particular model that isn’t North and, considering that in stock, Victor will gladly 70 per cent of my source it for you. If you are customers are from the not sure what you are South, that has had an looking for, there is an impact on me. extensive range of models “But people still have to in stock at any one time to eat, deliveries still have to help you choose the right be made and as long as vehicle for your needs. that’s the case, there will Customers can also use be a demand for trucks. the company’s website, We sell a lot of meat rail www.trucksni.co.uk, to vehicles and other types of search for makes, models, refrigerated trucks.” prices as well as the One of Armstrong availability of vehicles.

Commercial Vehicles’ big Victor can set you up with selling points is its location any kind of truck. just off the main A26 route “We can change our between Belfast and boxes, refrigerated boxes, Coleraine. From here, make dump and tanker Victor operates a large bodies and a whole lot workshop where repairs more,” he says. and modifications are “All the customer has to carried out by mechanic do is to tell us what their Paul Scullion, who has needs are and we will get been with the company for it done for them. If a 15 years. When major customer is looking for a mechanical problems specific vehicle we haven’t arise, or if paintwork is got in stock, all they have needed, Victor contracts to do is fill out the vehicle out this work. enquiry form on our Victor is very appreciate website and we will look of the support he receives after the rest.” from all his customers.

Victor decided to set up “While a favourable the company after realising exchange rate can offer that many private owners customers from south of cannot afford to spend big the border better value for money on new trucks. money when they are buying a truck, it’s still “When I was working for incredible to think that they an Iveco-Ford dealer make up 70 per cent of our before I set up this business. We get a lot of company, I noticed that customers from Donegal private owners were more and the West of Ireland in interested in buying particular. Regardless of second-hand trucks than the make or model, the new trucks. It all comes bottom line is that our down to money and what customers are always they can afford at the end assured of a top quality of the day. A typical sevenused truck when the visit and-a-half tonne truck to us,” he concludes. buy new would cost you £50,000. You can get a decent secondCOMP hand for £10,000.

ANY D ETAILS There’s no For mo comparison.” re infor mation Teleph He continues: on Mobile e 028 2766 4 “The business has 08 07 or ema 7 3637 0632 2 become a lot more il: enqu iries@tr competitive in ucksni. co.uk.

Alterna recent years. You tively, y o V u have companies ictor at: can ca ll into coming over Armstr o n g C from Eastern omm 61 Kilra ughts R ercial Vehicle Europe clearing s, oad, B Co. An allymo out the secondtrim, B T53 7H ney, hand market and L. IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

Continued success to Armstrong Commercial Vehicles

COMMERCIAL BODYBUILDING CONVERSIONS • REPAIRS • PAINTING 110 Kilgad Road, Kells, Ballymena BT42 3EE

Tel: 028-25898042 Best Wishes To Armstrong Commercial Vehicles

Best Wishes To Armstrong Commercial Vehicles From

GreerHamiltonGailey INCORPORATING MURPHY CAREY

SOLICITORS Established 1840

27 High Street, Ballymoney, Co. Antrim BT53 6AJ Tel: (028) 276 62104 / 028 276 62132 Fax: 028 276 65856 Email: info@ghglaw.co.uk www.ghglaw.co.uk Also at 1 O’Hara Court, Portstewart Tel: 028 7083 2518 Fax: 028 7083 5620

Drumcairn, Loughgall Rd., Armagh BT61 7NN

T: (028) 3752 4731 / 3752 5272 / 3752 7488 F: (028) 3752 7483 Email: sales@cormacleonard.com www.cormacleonard.com Best Wishes To Armstrong Commercial Vehicles 69

All of S&T Van Hire’s vehicles are in immaculate condition

Donegal’s car and van hire specialist Looking to hire a car, van or truck in the northwest region? If so, S&T Van Hire has the vehicle for you.

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elebrating five years in business, S&T Van Hire has established itself as a onestop shop for all your car, van and truck hire needs.

Based on the Port Road, Letterkenny, S&T is the largest independently owned self-drive hire company in Co. Donegal, which provides a quality vehicle hire service for business and private purposes.

S&T has 15 modern and fully equipped vehicles available for hire, while excellent customer services is always assured.

“We stock everything from a Ford Fiesta to a 7-and-a-half tonne truck,” S&T managing director Anthony O’Regan explains.

“We have cars, vans, fridge vans,

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A Volkswagen Transporter ready to hire

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

4x4s, hybrids and lorries available for hire. We have grown into the largest privately owned self-drive hire company in Donegal and pride ourselves on offering an unrivalled service. We cover the whole of the county, from Killybegs in the south up to Innisowen in the northwest.

“In addition, we are the only company in Donegal that offers an eight-people carrier for hire. We are very competitively priced and have got tremendous support from the local community since opening for business.”

S&T Van Hire has established a tradition of value-formoney, reliability and total dedication to customer service during its relatively short history. Unlike the larger car rentals companies, a deposit isn’t required on any vehicle – just your laser or credit card details.

“A lot of people prefer to deal with a company where they can be assured of the personal touch, and that’s where we have a clear advantage over the multinationals. The fact that we don’t look for a deposit is also a big selling point for us. When I set up this company, I was trying to capture a niche in the market. There was an opening for this kind of service in Donegal,” Anthony says.

S&T Van Hire offers the following: 30 per discount on van hire of seven days or more; transfer your fully comprehensive insurance; contract hire rates; free delivery to account customers; 30 per cent discount on van hire of seven days or more to account customers; flexible long or short-term hire options for business customers; cover drivers over 23.

The customer will get the vehicle with a full tank of fuel. It is the customer’s responsibility to ensure that the fuel that has been used is replaced. Failure to do so will incur charges to your laser or credit card.

The S&T Van Hire fleet includes Volkswagen Caddys, Volkswagen Transporters, Volkswagen Grafters, MWB/LWB, Volkswagen Transport fridge van, Iveco 7.5 tonne curtainsider, Williams 3.5 tonne car/plant trailer, Ford MPV family car seven-seater, Volkswagen Shuttle nine-seater. The vehicles range in years from 2006 to 2009 and are always in immaculate condition.

“We have a fantastic reputation for cleanliness,” Anthony proudly states.

“All of our vehicles are spotless. They are serviced and maintained on a regular basis, meaning the customer is assured of a clean, quality and comfortable vehicle when they deal with us.”

S&T Van Hire boasts a long and impressive client list that includes blue-chip companies such as Value Centre, Fastway Couriers, VSC Mercedes and Honda, Donegal Groupage and Donegal Creameries.

“It’s great to be doing business with companies like that, but we appreciate the business we get from all of our customers, whether they are big or small. If we can’t provide something for a customer, we will pass them on the name of another company who might be able to cater for them.

While all the rental companies are in competition with each other, we still try to support each other in whatever way we can. When I put business their way, they usually return the favour.”

A native of Farran, Co. Cork, Anthony has over 20 years of experience in the transport industry. He worked in the transport department of Euro Disney in Paris between 1992 and ’95, and managed a 300-strong fleet in the UK before returning to Ireland to live in Clonmany on the Inishowen peninsula and setting up S&T Van Hire with his late wife Sharon in 2006.

IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

A wide range of cars, vans and trucks are available for hire from S&T

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One of the Volkswagen vans for hire

And while the recession has had an impact on his business, he is more than holding his own.

“The recession has been tough on all businesses, and we’re no exception. We’ve had to reduce our prices in order to keep the customers coming through the door. I’ve been in this business for 21 years and things have never been as tough as they are now. But by continuing to provide the best service out there, I’m confident that the next five years will be just as successful as the last five

have been.

“We’ve expanded our services greatly since 2006 and, if at all possible, we’d like to grow the business even more. As I’ve already said, we’ve got great support from the local business community and hopefully that will continue to be the case for many years to come,” he concludes.

Call 074-9176531 to make an enquiry or pre-book a rental vehicle via email. S&T Van Hire will provide the right vehicle for you! Customers are advised to read the terms and conditions before booking and note

that a minimum of 24 hours’ notice is required for cancellation of booking.

All rates are exclusive of VAT and insurance.

Company Detail s S&T Van Hire Port Road, Letterkenny, Co Donegal Tel: 074-9176531 - 087-6524989 Email: info @s-t-v anhire.com

Best Wishes To S&T Van Hire From All At

DONEGAL GROUPAGE Donegal/Dublin Daily NATIONWIDE NEXT DAY

Carrickmore, St. Johnston, Co. Donegal

T: (074) 91 48685 • F: (074) 9148 798 Mobile: (087) 248 0657 E: donegalgroupage@hotmail.com 72

PROVIDING A TOWING SERVICE FOR ALL VEHICLE TYPES DAY OR NIGHT 24 HOUR RECOVERY & STORAGE SERVICES Kilmacrennan, County Donegal, Ireland Email: info@jdrecoveryservice.com Phone 00 353 (0) 74 91 39303 Mobile: 00 353 (0) 86 228 9494. Fax 074 91 39010 Web: www.jdrecoveryservice.com

Continued Best Wishes To S&T Van Hire IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

A selection of the parts available at Auto & Trailer Spares Ltd

For all your trailer needs The maintenance of trailers is a specialised area that is carried out by a select few.

However, the preservation of trailers would not be possible without multiple key components and for these we must turn to the experts.

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ne such company that specialises in providing trailer parts is Auto & Trailer Spares Ltd, which is based in Omagh, Co Tyrone. Managing Director Donal Wilson has been operating the business for the last seven years and he speaks to Irish Trucker for this month's edition of the magazine.

Sourcing trailer parts is not the easiest of tasks to complete, but Donal has developed a network of contacts all over the world, which allows him to purchase a wide range of top quality products at competitive prices.

Through this, Auto & Trailer Spares Ltd has built up a massive customer base with the main core

Trailer axles are another product on sale

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IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

The business moved to a new 20,000sq ft premises in 2005

of products going directly to the trailer manufacturer, while more recently, they have established a sales department on the retail side.

"We are now one of Ireland's largest distributor of trailer spares as well as a major supplier of motor components to both the public and trade in Northern Ireland,” said Donal.

"The business changed ownership at the beginning of 2005 and in the following six months relocated to a new 20,000 square feet purpose-built office and warehouse facility on the Drumquin Road in Omagh and significantly expanded the quantity and range of both trailer and motor spares. The new premises also include a shop and trade counter which is open five days a week (8:30 to 17:30 weekdays).

Auto and Trailer Spares provide a comprehensive spares service for a range of trailers (ranging from 1 to 20 tonnes) including car trailers, agricultural trailers, construction trailers (including dump trailers, machinery carriers and fuel bowsers).

“We provide an extensive range of components available ex-stock including a wide range of axles, suspension parts, hitches, tyres, rims, brakes, lamps and much more. In addition Auto and Trailer Spares Ltd staff have extensive experience of trailer and motor spares, most of the staff have over ten years experience with the business, leaving them well placed to assist customers with technical queries and design issues.”

Through hard work and sheer determination, the

Donal has worked hard to make the business a success

company has grown considerably over the years to become what it is today as Donal explains.

“Our customer base has expanded greatly over the years throughout Ireland and beyond, we would have numerous customers in the UK and Europe markets. We pride ourselves on customer satisfaction and providing a reliable service.

“Our prices are competitive which in the current economic climate is essential and we would stock over 7,000 different parts in our Omagh warehouse. By using a network of reliable courier/shipping agents we can offer a 24hr service to most parts within Ireland.

“We buy all our components in bulk and ensure high levels of stock are held in our warehouse at any given

Best Wishes To Auto & Trailer Spares Ltd From

ROLL THREAD COMPONENTS 39 Kittyclogher Road, Sandholes Cookstown , CO. TYRONE BT80 9BZ, Co. Tyrone Northern Ireland

Telephone: + 44 (0) 28 8676 5218 Fax: + 44 (0) 28 867 67650 www.rtcubolts.com Email: info@rtcubolts.com IRISH TRUCKER & LIGHT COMMERCIALS

75

All parts and tyres are sources at reasonable prices

within the premises. The company also time. We can also source non standard have an extensive range of their own products quickly from a range of brand of Purflo Oil and lubricants used manufacturers through the world and on all engines and agriculture have them delivered to our premises in machinery. a couple of days.”

We are continually trying to expand Donal revealed that the company did the range of products and services to suffer a setback when the economy's make Auto and Trailer Spares Ltd a downtown occurred, but pleasingly he one stop shop to our customers. admits that they have found their feet The sales team is at hand to deal with once again. any queries, quotes or technical issues “The downturn certainly affected us, no matter how trivial in order to provide like many other businesses and it has taken us a while to adapt, but thankfully customers with the product they require we are back on track and are looking to at an affordable price. the future with great optimism.”

There are 14 people employed by COMPANY D Auto & Trailer Spares Ltd and each has ETAILS a significant role to play in the success Auto & Traile of the company, which Donal r Spares Ltd Drumquin Roa appreciates. d, Omagh County Tyrone “The staff is well trained and very BT78 5PN United Kingd om efficient at their jobs, from the lorry E: info@auto andtrailer.com drivers through to the office staff and T 028 8225 82 warehouse operatives, everyone 25 F 028 8224 24 works really hard and we are 24 delighted to have them. We would have a very low Best Wishes & Continued Success To turnover of Auto & Trailer Spares Ltd From employees which speaks for itself.”

The added advantage of operating from the 20,000sq ft premises is that additional services BRADLEY DOUBLELOCK LTD Unit 15 Block B, Blyry Business & Commercial Park, are offered which Athlone, Co. Westmeath include tyre fitting T: (090) 64 86849 F: (090) 64 86850 M: 087 2533 928 from the wide range E:paul.phillips@bradleydoublelock.co.uk of imported tyres www.bradleydoublelock.co.uk and rims stocked

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Auto & Trailer Spares Ltd

www.maypole.ltd.uk

76

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