AKFS races ahead
29 July 2020
There might have been talk of declining vehicle sales in the wake of the pandemic, but try telling that to the conversion specialist AKFS. They really are motoring.
I have already reported how demand has been rising for the vehicle division operated by one national tool and plant hirer.
Now AKFS Sales Manager, Phil Simcox, tells me that his company has also had its foot to the floor since re-opening after the lockdown.
Extra production line
“We closed for six weeks until 4 May, and then we worked really quickly to adapt our factory at Clay Cross, Derbyshire, for social distancing requirements. We installed floor markings, hand sanitiser stations and a one-way system for personnel to follow. We also took a wall down to add an extra production line," says Phil.
“Managing Director Ian Knight, who lives in Andover, drove up and actually stayed several nights in the factory because there were simply no hotels open. He was able to use a Racetrack sleeper vehicle from a range that we adapt for enthusiasts attending track events.
Sales “through the roof”
“Sales have absolutely gone through the roof," Phil adds. "Traffic management companies are ordering more of our low-floor Drop & Go models because of social distancing needs. They can’t have as many people in each vehicle as before when undertaking tasks like laying and collecting road cones.
“For similar reasons, car dealerships are delivering new or serviced vehicles to the doors of customers who don’t want to go out and collect them. This is creating demand for our Ultra range of transporters.”
A-Z Hire takes delivery
Interest in the AKFS Plant & Go low-floor vehicle for transporting machinery and equipment is also revving up. The latest one to roll off the production line has been sold to A-Z Hire of Dublin.
Based on a Peugeot cab, it has been fitted with an assisted tailgate and fall arrest straps. AKFS states that the vehicle can be driven by anyone with a full standard licence.
Gavin Murphy, Owner of A-Z Hire, says," This vehicle will offer us improved efficiency and Health & Safety benefits when delivering plant and tools to our customers."
