Travis Perkins in fleet deal with Ryder

Ryder has signed a deal to become vehicle leasing partner for Travis Perkins' fleet of 620 vehicles.

The agreement was finalised back in December of last year after its previous supplier, Gullivers, went into administration. However, the announcement was delayed until this month.

Commented Travis Perkins group fleet director Graham Bellman: “It was a hugely challenging time for us - and for Ryder. Within 48 hours of being contacted, Ryder had prepared and delivered a commercial proposal for 620 rigid trucks, tractor units, and trailers. After 48 hours, all contracts had been signed, and more importantly, there was no disruption to our operational business.”

Bellman identified Ryder’s financial and operational capability as the key drivers that helped get the deal over the line.

“It became clear very quickly that Ryder was the only company that had the foresight and financial capacity to take on these assets," he explained. "What we needed from our service provider was the right vehicles, competitively priced, and fully compliant with additional short-term rental support for seasonal peaks. Ryder delivered on all of these requirements when we needed them the most.”

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Added Ryder finance director Stephen King: “This was an extremely complex negotiation due to the involvement of multiple vehicle funders – Ryder had to deliver on its promises to buy these vehicles and execute the deal quickly and confidently to support the operational commitments of Travis Perkins. With our financial standing and the full support of our US parent, we were able to do this like no other provider, and all without taking undue risk.”

Ryder revealed that a team of 26 people were engaged on the deal.

“To see the company kick in and make this happen was quite something,” said John Robinson, Ryder’s director – fleet sales. “The pace at which everyone was working on administering the deal – from the initial valuation of all 620 assets, through to pricing, our UK legal counsel approving all legal documents together with the Travis Perkins legal team within three days, and finally the actual purchase – was phenomenal.”

Pictured (left to right): Graham Bellman, Travis Perkins; and John Robinson, Ryder.