Ale & Beer Sprinters are getting around

DRINKS wholesaler Ale & Beer Supplies has rid itself of the unpleasant ‘hangover’ of unreliable transport by switching to Mercedes-Benz Sprinters.

The St Helens-based company had previously relied on vehicles by a rival manufacturer, as they were the cheapest on offer.

“That proved to be a false economy,” recalled managing director Chris Lawler. “They were terrible – something was always going wrong.

“Not only were we were paying a fortune to keep them on the road, but it was also a huge job to meet our delivery schedule, and live up to the dependable service promise we make to customers.”

Their replacements, a trio of Long-bodied Mercedes-Benz Sprinters, arrived via the Warrington branch of dealer Roanza Truck & Van, and have been nothing short of a revelation.

“The Sprinters are so much better, in every way,” enthused Mr Lawler. “The price difference was negligible and they’re proving far more cost-effective to operate, as well as promising the long-term reliability for which Mercedes-Benz is renowned.”

Ale & Beer Supplies delivers alcoholic and soft drinks to pubs, clubs, restaurants and hotels across the North-West. Thanks to its direct partnerships with leading manufacturers it offers customers not only a comprehensive product range, but also full brand technical support.

The company’s new vans are 20^th Anniversary Special Edition Sprinter 313 CDIs, introduced to mark the two decades that have passed since the all-conquering van’s launch.

Just 1,200 vehicles benefited from ‘Sprinter 20’ badging on the front wing and a unique option bundle including air conditioning, satellite navigation, a driver’s Comfort seat with arm rest, wheel trims and a chrome grille – this package was worth over £2,000, but put just £750 on the retail cost of the vehicle.

Sprinters ‘Right decision’ says MD Chris Lawler

They are the subject of a competitively-priced hire purchase agreement with Mercedes-Benz Financial Services, and are being maintained under a Service Care plan that covers all labour costs and parts required for scheduled servicing.

“I did my homework before we invested in these Sprinters,” continued Mr Lawler. “We spoke to other wholesalers and the consensus was clear – Mercedes-Benz vehicles are by far the most reliable and therefore the most cost-effective to run. We knew they had that reputation, of course, but this feedback confirmed it.

“Having had them on the road for six months, our decision has been vindicated. They are far better built than our previous vans, and are popular with staff too – as well as appreciating the fact that their vehicles no longer break down, they also tell me the Sprinters are comfortable and great to drive.

“The Service Care package means our routine maintenance costs are fixed so budgeting is much easier, while Roanza have also been extremely attentive, not only while we were ordering the vans, but also since we took delivery. We definitely made the right decision.”