Some truck operators have their trucks standing idle – not so many others. One example is South Caernarfon Creameries (SCC) in North Wales. The company has just taken delivery of four new DAF trucks as the cheese and butter maker sees production volumes continue to increase year on year.
Three new DAF CF 450 8×2 rigids and an CF 480 6×2 tractor unit join the fleet through local DAF Dealer MOTUS Commercials in Wrexham.
Manoeuvrability is Key
The eight-wheelers feature DAF’s ‘FAX’ axle configuration comprising a steer-steer-drive-steer set-up to provide exceptional manoeuvrability; its turning circle is 10% smaller than a conventional 8×4 double-drive chassis, decreasing its kerb-to-kerb distance by a significant two-metres. The positively steered rear axle also reduces the risk of damage to yard surfaces often encountered by SCC on local farms. SCC also enjoys a payload boost with the new DAF 8x2s, with a 19,500-litre payload now achievable.
With its base in Pwllheli on the Llŷn Peninsula, SCC is an expanding, farmer-owned dairy cooperative. Utilising its truck fleet on a seven-days-a-week, 52-weeks-a-year operation, SCC brings in milk from member farms to its Rhydygwystl creamery, from where it delivers to the majority of the UK’s principal supermarket chains.
COVID-19 Sales Increase
With the coronavirus continuing to affect the road haulage industry, a number of operators in the food business have seen volumes continue, if not increase, during lockdown restrictions; as SCC Transport Manager, Dylan Owen, points out:
“Demand for our products from the retail sector has been high during this period and this has placed greater demands on our distribution activities. The new DAF units will help keep supermarket shelves stocked, while the new 8×2 chassis will certainly bring greater efficiencies on the road – manoeuvrability is greatly enhanced with the rear steer capability, and we get more product on-board.