Wedge Group Galvanizing Ltd is rolling out a new look for its fleet of more than 100 trucks.
The business runs a collection and delivery service at each of its 14 plants across the UK and is keen to modernise the livery across the entire operation.
Some 70 rigid HGVs and 42 articulated lorries will have the new livery on the company’s fleet renewal programme.
The move is part of a major overhaul of the nationwide fleet, which is also being switched from Mercedes to DAF chassis.
An initial batch of 12 new vehicles, each featuring the new livery along with additional safety messaging, joined the £5m-a-year logistics operation this month with the remainder of the existing assets to be introduced on a rolling replacement basis.
Paul Thompson, Fleet Transport Manager for Wedge Group Galvanizing, said: “Our vehicles are our shop window in many ways, so it’s vital that they stand out and are consistent with our brand guidelines.
“The new modern livery will make each of our trucks instantly recognisable and that improves our visibility.”
Wedge Group, which purchases all HGVs, trailers and materials handling equipment outright, is sourcing Euro 6 compliant CF480FTG tractor units and LF230FA trucks from DAF dealers Ford and Slater, based in Leicester, while bodies for rigids are being supplied by Bevan Group in Wednesbury, West Midlands.
Paul added: “We’re switching to DAF for several reasons, but largely because they produce great trucks which have an excellent aftercare service.”
Each of the plants within the Wedge Group network, which stretches from Glasgow to Devon and from Newport, Wales to East Anglia, runs its own collection and delivery service with trucks based on site.
Paul, who is based at the company headquarters in Willenhall, West Midlands, said: “Some operate more vehicles than others, depending on workload, and some will have more artics than others, depending on the type of work they’re typically carrying out.
“We also have around 100 of our own drivers and will supplement that, as and when necessary, so it’s certainly a major operation.
“We have also invested in new systems and technology, including increasing the number of load lashing points and developed two new dedicated Driver CPC courses specifically for the Wedge Group.
“Collection and delivery has been an integral part of the business for many years and we’re making sure it’s a service that’s fit for the future.”
