Smart new front

A timely visit by Western Commercial truck sales trainee Joseph Tome was instrumental in convincing Edinburgh-based facades specialist Charles Henshaw and Sons to order its first Mercedes-Benz truck.

The 7.5-tonne Atego has a ClassicSpace S-cab, and is powered by a fuel-efficient 5.1-litre engine which produces 115 kW (156 hp) and is paired with a six-speed Mercedes PowerShift 3 transmission. Supplied from stock, the truck is fitted with a 20ft aluminium dropside body by DPH, of Bathgate.

Henshaw had previously been leasing a 7.5-tonne truck, but production manager James Gallon and his colleagues were weighing up their options when Joseph called to introduce himself and the dealer he represents.

“The timing was just right, as the three-year contract on our last vehicle was coming to an end,” James said. “We were mulling over what to do about replacing it, and may well have ended up taking out another lease.

“Instead, Joseph made a persuasive case for the benefits of purchasing a vehicle, then backing it with a service contract. The sums certainly added up – outright acquisition should prove a more cost-effective solution over the longer-term.

“We work with internationally recognised brands, and were also attracted to the reputation of Mercedes-Benz. The three-pointed star’s image of quality and prestige can only reflect positively on our own company in the eyes of our customers.”

The Atego is now working alongside another commercial vehicle that Henshaw operates, delivering products throughout the UK. It will be maintained at Western Commercial’s Broxburn workshop.

Charles Henshaw and Sons’ order was the first that Joseph has won. He joined Western Commercial last autumn, having previously graduated from Edinburgh Napier University with a Financial Services Degree.