Bradford-based steel stockholder Barrett Steel has transferred the maintenance of its 30-truck fleet to a local MAN dealer in a bid to free up more space at its headquarters. Operations director John Childs says the move, with vehicles now maintained by Croft Fleet Maintenance, has freed up the 1,880ft² workshop for additional stockholding space to handle a new product line.
"Steel stockholding is our core business and the additional space has allowed us to serve our customers more efficiently," says Childs. But improved maintenance practices to ensure compliance with O-licence conditions and maximise vehicle availability were also key reasons for the move, which has seen Barrett's two technicians transfer to Croft.
Croft's average first-time annual-test pass rate has risen to 92%, well above the industry norm, while overnight servicing and repair from Monday to Thursday ensures Barrett's vehicles are always available during working hours. "We have an excellent collection and drop-off procedure where trucks are serviced overnight at Croft and back on the road the next day," says Childs.
A Croft technician is also on Barrett's site every morning to solve any unexpected problems and deal with urgent defects reported by Barrett's drivers. Croft is an MAN Truck Centre, and while most of Barrett's vehicles are MANs, Croft is also looking after the firm's Scanias, Volvos and Dafs. The contract also includes 24-hour breakdown cover, and Croft is looking to expand its deal with Barrett's to include tyre supply and maintenance.
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