Eden Farm Hulleys, a specialist in ice cream and frozen food, has recently strengthened its fleet with the addition of five New Generation DAF XF 480 tractor units and one Chereau refrigerated semi-trailer, all supplied by the Asset Alliance Group.
The six new vehicles have been acquired through a three-year contract hire deal and will be integrated into Eden Farm Hulleys' distribution network, which operates from nine depots across the UK, including Peterlee, Luton, Sheffield, and Bradford. The multi-temperature Chereau fridge will be based at the company's County Durham headquarters.
Jason Brooksbank, group transport manager at Eden Farm Hulleys, explained that the expansion and fleet renewal were prompted by the acquisition of new business opportunities, and the trucks and trailer met their specific requirements.
"We have operated DAF tractor units for a number of years and trialled a New Generation DAF XF 480 prior to placing our order,” he said. “The fuel return statistics were favourable, which is fantastic as we work them hard on our trunking operations across the UK. They will clock up around 180,000km per year.” He also praised the maintenance and back-up service provided by Asset Alliance Group.
The DAF trucks boast a spacious cab and come equipped with a built-in satellite navigation system and a range of cameras to enhance driver safety and mitigate ambiguous insurance claims. "They offer excellent cab comfort and have proven popular with our drivers," Brooksbank added.
The new vehicles will join Eden Farm Hulleys' mixed fleet of 180 trucks, trailers, and delivery vans. Their primary role will be to efficiently distribute frozen and chilled food products as well as ice cream to a diverse clientele, including small independent shops, large wholesalers, buying groups, and various high street retailers.
Part of the Kitwave Group, an independent wholesale business with depots spread across the UK, Eden Farm Hulleys has collaborated with Asset Alliance Group in the past, sourcing a number of trailers five years ago. The successful partnership led the company to once again choose Asset Alliance Group for this fleet expansion due to its ability to promptly supply the required assets, competitive pricing, and timely delivery.
"We're delighted with the high level of service," expressed Brooksbank, highlighting the satisfaction and confidence Eden Farm Hulleys has in their collaboration with Asset Alliance Group as they continue to grow their business and maintain their commitment to efficient and reliable distribution in the frozen food sector.
