Following recommendations from fellow operators, William Thompson (York) Limited (Thompsons of York) – one of the largest animal feed producers in Yorkshire and the North-East – has selected Renault Trucks for the first time in the their history. As a consequence, three high specification Range T520 6×2 tag axle tractor units have joined the company’s 14-strong fleet working on bulk agricultural deliveries to farms within a 100-mile radius.
Producing high quality animal feed for pigs, hens, sheep, cattle and goats, Thompsons of York uses its own mill to blend and process the raw materials into pellet form. For Transport Manager, Steve Room, recommendations from other operators played a fundamental role in the selection of a new truck manufacturer: “The delivery of raw materials into Thompsons is outsourced, and from big fleets to one-man bands, all of those operators with Renault trucks spoke highly of them and would get another one. Some of these men are what I would call ‘very hard to please’ so if they’re happy with Renault Trucks then they must be good.”
Supplied by Thompson Commercials Limited (Hull), the sleeper-cabbed Range Ts pull Fruehauf Tri-Axle tipping trailers with Priden / Alibulk auxiliary equipment.
Top quality products and delivery are key to its business success as Transport Manager, Steve Room, explains: “The animal feed market is very competitive and farmers not only demand the finest quality product at the best prices, but also excellent service and availability. We’ve not always received the best service from other truck manufacturers so the new vehicles had to deliver the full package – reliability and first-class dealer back-up.”
The Range Ts have been making a good first impression, as has the dealer. “The Thompson Commercials salesman, Dale Arnott, is very good and easy to get on with; he gives the strong impression that he cares, which makes a lot of difference,” notes Steve.
Explaining why he opted for the tag, Steve continues: “Most of our drops would be ok with a mid-lift, but I went for a tag axle as it gives more manoeuvrability and grip and gets into places easier than a standard tractor unit. This is especially important when going in and out of farmland that has more challenging muddy ground.”
The T520s, adorned in William Thompson’s striking carnation-red and black livery, have been a big hit with the drivers. Equipped with a wealth of optional extras including Alcoa DuraBright Aluminium wheels, 24-litre fridge and Kelsa top light bar with six spot lights and leather steering wheel, the Range Ts offer the ultimate in driver comfort – luxury Recaro seats which are leather, heated and air cooled.
As Steve says, “Driver acceptance is high; one had to drive a different vehicle the other day and said he couldn’t wait to get back into the Renault ! As long as the positive experience continues, I will be looking for a deal to buy more Renault trucks next year.”
