Every business has been impacted by the COVID pandemic – some positively – more negatively. Mercedes-Benz tell us that they are well placed to continue meeting operators’ needs for R&M through every one of their dealerships – still ‘Open all hours’.
Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK Managing Director Wolfgang Theissen, said: “COVID-19 continues to affect our everyday lives, but we have adapted our working behaviours and are proud to say that every one of our 79 sites remains open to inspect, maintain and repair our customers’ trucks.”
Key Workers
With England in its third lockdown, and similar measures in force in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, Mercedes trucks are at work in the liveries of supermarkets, online retailers and parcels delivery specialists, others are delivering COVID-19 vaccines.
Leading commercial vehicle contract hire and leasing provider Asset Alliance, for example, owns 125 Actros which are in service with three high-profile operators from the pharmaceuticals sector – these tractor units are assigned to the task of vaccine distribution, and serviced within the Mercedes-Benz network.
“Of course, we’re keeping a close eye on these vehicles,” confirmed Wolfgang Theissen. “This means ensuring that their six-weekly inspections are arranged and undertaken as efficiently as possible, with optimum parts availability, so we can get them back on the road and performing their vital duties with the minimum of delay.
“However, we monitor every other truck we maintain too, because we recognise and appreciate the heroic roles that all of our customers are playing in keeping the country moving during these challenging times.”
Parts Availability
Latest figures from the manufacturer confirm that the ‘first pick’ parts availability level across its Dealer network remained stable last year, despite nationwide restrictions and lockdowns. Wolfgang pledged: “We are open for business – many of our workshops continue to operate on a round-the-clock basis, parts availability is good, and our Service24h roadside assistance teams stand ready to respond to breakdowns.”
Home Office Sales
Wolfgang said that following Government advice Mercedes-Benz Truck UK sales and head office teams were working from home wherever possible, and all business travel and non-essential face-to-face meetings had been cancelled. “The COVID-secure measures we and our franchised partners have implemented are designed to stem the spread of the virus and provide our teams with safe working environments,” he added.
“Operators can also be assured that we are still here for them. Whatever their role, be it delivering vaccines, food or home shopping consignments, or any one of the myriad other tasks in which Mercedes-Benz and FUSO trucks are employed, together with our network of Dealers and Authorised Repairers we remain totally committed to keeping our customers moving.”
