WALON PROVIDE SINGLE SOLUTION FOR FIAT’S ROYAL MAIL FLEET
21 August 2006
For the first time in its history, the Royal Mail has introduced 350 award winning Fiat Doblò Cargo vans into its delivery fleet, which have been prepared, enhanced and delivered for Fiat by automotive logistics specialist Walon UK.
The special edition ‘Royal Mail red’ Fiat Doblò Cargo vans are imported into the UK through Portbury Dock in Bristol where Walon has a flag-ship operation. Walon’s dedicated technical services team then carries out the preparation and enhancement of the vehicles which are tailored specifically to the varying requirements of the Royal Mail operations in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Walon provide Fiat with a single solution for the contract from the PDI, valet and registration through to a number of key enhancements specified by the Royal Mail which includes fitting a lightweight plastic lining to the inside of the vehicle and the application of the Royal Mail livery. In addition, Walon also manages the storage and handling and onward delivery of the vans to Royal Mail depots throughout the UK and Northern Ireland.
The Royal Mail selected the Fiat Doblò vans due to the projected whole life costs of the vehicles and also due to the comfort and safety for their drivers. The vans also offer twin side opening which is ideal for urban delivery work and the rear door 60/40 split provides flexibility for opening in tight spaces.
Fiat’s National Fleet Manager -Commercial Vehicles, Paul Knowlson said, “This is a highly prestigious contract as it is the first time Fiat has worked with the Royal Mail. Walon won the tender for the enhancement contract as their specialist team were able to offer us a high quality seamless solution from the storage, PDI and enhancement of the Vans right through to their final delivery to the customer.”
Walon’s Technical Services Managing Director Steve Berry said, “We have had a partnership with Fiat for over 10 years and we were therefore delighted to be able to support them with this major new contract with Royal Mail.
“Commercial Vehicle enhancement is a growing market for Walon and due to our extensive resources in technical and distribution services we are able to offer customers, such as the major utility companies, with a cost effective and highly efficient one-stop service.”