Inverness-based family business Williamson Foodservice has taken delivery of two new temperature controlled DAF trucks from Fraikin on a five-year full-service contract hire deal, marking a move away from outright purchase for its truck fleet.
Williamson Foodservice operates a 30-strong commercial vehicle fleet comprising 17 light commercials, six of which are already sourced on contract hire, and 13 trucks ranging between 7.5 and 18 tonnes that are all owned by the business.
The two new DAF LF 7.5-tonne rigids replace older vehicles in the fleet and will supply fresh and chilled food and drink to catering and retail customers in some of the remotest parts of Scotland.
The decision to turn to Fraikin was based on its ability to alleviate the workload associated with managing a truck fleet, by providing a comprehensive maintenance and servicing package – vital given that each vehicle travels across the Highlands and by ferry to the Western Isles.
Gary Williamson, Managing Director at Williamson Foodservice, says: “Fraikin was committed to providing a maintenance package that was perfectly suited to our business needs. Our vehicles clock up a high mileage delivering well off the beaten track for most truck fleets, so maximising uptime was pivotal – particularly when carrying temperature sensitive loads.”
All maintenance work will be managed by Fraikin via an approved third-party network on a collection and delivery basis, with work proactively scheduled out of hours to ensure Williamson Foodservice’s fleet is always on the road when it’s needed.
Williamson adds: “What separates Fraikin from the rest of the pack is the commitment they showed to truly understand our needs. From the start they really got to grips with how we work, ensuring we got the perfect vehicles for the job, as well as putting in place the fleet management support we need moving forward.”
Both DAF rigids have been mounted with Tekbo insulated bodies and Thermo King refrigeration units. In operation six days a week, Williamson Foodservice will receive all the benefits of full-service contract hire for both trucks, including tyre replacement, routine safety inspections, road fund licencing, 24/7 breakdown support and relief vehicle cover.
Established 60 years ago as a fresh fruit and vegetable distributor, Williamson Foodservice is today a full-service wholesaler. The company, which has additional depots in Glasgow and Stornoway, has an ever-growing product range which includes dairy, drinks, dry store and delicatessen.
