Parfetts signs up Ryder to support wholesale expansion

Wholesaler AG Parfett & Sons has signed a new deal with Ryder for 26 DAF LF230 18t trucks.

The move will support continued expansion at the company, which owns the Go Local store brand.

The new trucks will operate from five of the seven Parfetts depots: Somercotes, Aintree, Sheffield, Middlesbrough and Stockport.

Parfetts' other two depots are at Anfield and Halifax. On average, the trucks will make between eight and nine drops a day to customers, delivering a mixture of food, drink and tobacco.

Increased volumes have been driven by its next day service and longer-range operations. The Somercotes depot is now delivering as far south as Birmingham, while the Aintree depot has customers in north Wales.

"We looked at a number of suppliers and Ryder had the best maintenance package," explained Parfetts supply chain manager Craig Johnson. "We know the DAF dealers, managed by Ryder, will give us a quality service - and that’s really important. And in our experience, DAF trucks are reliable.

"The swiftness with which we receive the preventative maintenance inspection reports from Ryder is notable."

The trucks are fitted with cameras giving 360 degree coverage: “Our deliveries are to local stores, sometimes on tight roads and in tight loading bays, so the cameras provide the evidence to help us with insurance claims and to protect our drivers," added Johnson.

Ryder key account director Phil Ashton said: "It’s great to be supporting an expanding business. Our focus on vehicle up-time was key in Parfetts’ decision to partner with us: we know how important it is not only to manage high quality maintenance, but also to keep our customers informed of scheduled maintenance and its outcomes in a timely fashion. With our Ryder-approved FleetCare service locations, we were able to support Parfetts’ needs, ensuring they can service their expanding customer base."