01 Nov Strong residual values are key to Gray & Adams’ appeal for Chiltern Cold Storage
One of the UK’s leading, privately-owned temperature-controlled logistics specialists has underlined its trust in the quality and durability of Gray & Adams equipment by commissioning four new semi-trailers.
Chiltern Cold Storage part-exchanged four trailers as part of the deal – all had given outstandingly reliable service and still looked good after six years on the road.
The fast-growing company operates 53 refrigerated trailers, 75% of which are by Gray & Adams. The line-up includes four lifting-deck variants and five with twin command steer axles for urban operation.
The latest additions to its fleet, however, are 13.6-metre single-deck trailers, with aerodynamically efficient panel cappings, and whisper quiet, low-emission Thermo King SLXi-300 multi-temperature refrigeration units.
All are working from Chiltern Cold Storage’s headquarters in Peterborough – the high-profile operator also has a base in Livingston and another in Highbridge, Somerset, which it opened last year.
Founded in 2003 by Managing Director Paul Jackson, Chiltern Cold Storage has established an enviable reputation for efficiency and integrated customer service. The company provides storage and distribution services to food businesses of all sizes throughout the UK and Europe, while its expertise in the handling of pharmaceuticals and medical products has underpinned much of its growth in recent years.
Gray & Adams, the UK’s leading manufacturer of temperature-controlled transport equipment, does not sell ‘off the shelf’ products, but tailors its vehicles to meet the specific requirements of its customers and their operations.
In line with this philosophy, Chiltern Cold Storage’s latest trailers were built to the ‘swan deck’ design favoured by Mr Jackson, and specified with features such as compression bumpers, stainless steel light pan infills and rugged, corrosion-resistant chequer-plate flooring.
“Gray & Adams will build me the exact trailer I want, and when it comes to options there aren’t many boxes we don’t tick,” confirms Paul Jackson.
He recalls: “Gray & Adams supplied my very first trailer, and I’ve been a loyal customer ever since. Its equipment leads the field in terms of reliability and longevity – its trailers still look good after six years on the road, and this is reflected in the terrific residual values which its products command.”
Mr Jackson continues: “Gray & Adams is also a very straightforward company to deal with. Joint Managing Director Peter Gray and Sales Manager Clive Horn know our business and understand what we require on a vehicle, which makes life easier for me.
“The manufacturer’s after sales service is first class, too. Parts availability is excellent and if we do need a repair it’s invariably undertaken quickly and efficiently.”