Lombard Vehicle Management has won another exclusive deal with a major housing group in one of the most comprehensive solutions it has ever created.
Lombard is providing Walsall Housing Group (whg) with around 210 Ford LCVs, ranging from Ford Connects to Transit Jumbos and Tippers, on a contract hire basis over 36 months, with the option for a further three years.
What makes the deal stand out, however, is the range of ancillary products and services chosen by whg and the level of bespoke specification provided. The vehicles are being prepared through Lombard’s unique Van Plus+ in-house build management service, with a remarkable 48 different specifications being produced according to precise user requirements. Parts of the vehicles’ racking has been recycled and refurbished, reducing costs and environmental impact – another unique Lombard offering.
The housing group is also trialling Lombard Fleet Tracker, which can improve service, reduce fuel consumption and emissions, and manage risk, and it has access to daily rental vehicles. In addition Lombard has been able to meet whg’s need for four 12-tonne heavy commercials.
The group’s fleet was previously spot-hired, and the dramatic change in policy underlines the powerful argument for leasing in the current economic climate. Darren Russell, whg’s Fleet Manager, says, “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Lombard, and are extremely impressed with both the range of services and the level of service, support and communication offered. Having a well maintained, green and efficient fleet of vehicles is an important way for us to provide an efficient and responsive service to customers. We are committed to continuous service improvement and these new vans fit in with our approach of making sure our assets are tailored to the needs of customers.”
The deal was handled by Lombard Vehicle Management Relationship Manager Richard Jones with support from the company’s award-winning Van Sales Unit, and is valued at around £4.5 million.
Walsall Housing Group includes five housing trusts, providing community-based services and 19,000 homes for rent in the Walsall community.
