DAF Trucks hails ‘epic response’ from dealer network to coronavirus outbreak

DAF Trucks has praised its 134-strong dealer network for its ‘epic response’ to the coronavirus outbreak. Despite operating under hugely difficult circumstances, all locations are performing at, or very close to, normal service levels, according to the manufacturer.

“We’re seeing nothing short of an epic response from the DAF Dealer network,” said DAF Trucks managing director, Laurence Drake. “The collective effort from DAF technicians on the frontline of operations has been awe-inspiring, while the speedy transition to home-working from the office staff has been remarkable, too. The whole network has pulled together for its customers,” he says, “and my management team owes a debt of gratitude for the heroic resolve shown by all aspects of the business.”

Reports from several DAF dealers describe a large-scale effort on the frontline of operations with workshop and DAFaid technicians repeatedly going the extra mile for truck operators.

For instance, BOC Group has expressed its gratitude to Evans Halshaw DAF in Sheffield for completing essential repairs in double-quick time as many of its vehicles are required for critical oxygen deliveries to hospitals. “In this challenging period, it’s paramount to keep supply chains operational,” said Evans Halshaw’s national franchise director, Lester Freakley. “I’m extremely proud of how the truck teams across all our locations continue to deliver first-class customer service in unprecedented circumstances.”

Meanwhile Richard Crump, managing director of Pelican DAF in Castleford, said the current situation was a reminder that dealerships have a vital role to play in keeping the food and NHS supply chain open. “I have given everyone an extra week’s holiday next financial year to thank them for their huge effort,” he said. “I see many of my people overcoming their personal fears to keep the wheels rolling.”

Motus Commercials, one of DAF Trucks’ largest dealer groups, has also responded. “Where employees can work from home, they are, and where they do need to come to the dealerships, we are following government guidelines,” said commercial director, Alan Ellison. “Including social distancing and increased regular cleaning to ensure their safety. We have also created an internal ‘Not All Heroes Wear Capes’ poster campaign to help boost morale for the employees still working at our dealerships.

“Our workshops are all open, and DAFaid Technicians are working. We are very much here to support the national effort against coronavirus. Our employees have approached the situation with a can-do attitude and have all pulled together as a team. It’s working well.”

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Dan Parton
Dan Parton
Dan Parton is a former editor of Truck & Driver, the UK’s biggest selling truck magazine. He is now writes for The Van Expert and The Truck Expert.

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