Falkirk-based distribution and warehousing specialist XS Transport has placed its first order with Asset Alliance, taking delivery of a Mercedes-Benz Actros 2545LS 6×2 tractor unit on a three-year full-service contract hire agreement.
Key to securing the order for Asset Alliance, part of the Asset Alliance Group and a specialist in commercial vehicle contract hire, finance, rental and leasing, was a recommendation from local Mercedes-Benz supplying dealer Western Commercials.
Alan Taylor, Managing Director at XS Transport, says: “Western Commercials suggested Asset Alliance finance the truck, and the company’s support has been fantastic. Contract hire works well for us as it takes away both the headache of fleet management, and the risks associated with purchasing outright – plus it means we can fix our costs for the duration of the contract.
“Under the contract hire agreement with Asset Alliance, we have the option of replacing the truck at the end of each term, giving us flexibility to offer our customers a diverse and modern fleet suited to their logistical requirements, whatever they may be.”
The Actros will operate from XS Transport’s headquarters in Denny, on both local and national deliveries. The new truck is expected to cover nearly 90,000 miles each year, working five days a week on a double-shift basis.
The new arrival joins a mixed fleet of 13 DAF, IVECO, MAN and Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles at XS Transport, ranging from 3.5-tonne curtainsided vans and 7.5-tonne rigid trucks up to tractors.
Asset Alliance will retain ownership of the truck under the agreement, and take on all of the associated costs – including full servicing, maintenance and repair, safety inspections, breakdown cover and tyre replacement.
At the end of the agreement XS Transport plans to replace the vehicle, and will simply return the truck to Asset Alliance, avoiding any of the stresses associated with used vehicle disposal.
Established five years ago with a single van, XS Transport has grown to offer both distribution and warehousing services.
The company operates a 5,000 square foot warehouse and employs approximately 20 staff, most of which are drivers. Services offered by XS Transport include tail-lift and two-man deliveries, pallet distribution and the transportation of dangerous goods.
ENDS
Note to editors:
Asset Alliance Group is redefining the way companies acquire commercial vehicles, through its brands Asset Alliance , ATE Truck and Trailer Sales , Forest Asset Finance and Total Reefer .
The Group occupies a unique position in the market, as it uses its own funds and significant buying power to supply multi-brand vehicles on any combination of contract hire, operating lease, finance lease or hire purchase. This flexibility, combined with a transparent and consultative approach, helps customers drive maximum efficiency from their fleets.
Asset Alliance Group also stands out for maintaining full control of residual risk through its retail arm ATE Truck and Trailer Sales, which protects customers from overly strict return conditions commonplace in the industry. Its modern workshop facilities also keep end-of-life costs to a minimum and provide the opportunity to refurbish vehicles in-house for an additional life in service.
The Group is headquartered in Wolverhampton and was founded in 2010 by Willie Paterson, former Director of Commercial Finance at Alliance & Leicester plc.
For further information, please contact:
Andy Hemphill or Beth Laws at Garnett Keeler PR
Tel: 020 8647 4467
Email: andy.hemphill@garnettkeeler.com or beth.laws@garnettkeeler.com
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