A rapidly-expanding North West utilities contractor, CKR Utilities, based in Heywood, Greater Manchester, has recently chosen Vanaways as its vehicle provider to support its ongoing growth journey. The company has purchased seven Iveco Daily MWB vans, marking a shift from its previous practice of hiring all 52 fleet vehicles. With a significant increase in turnover from £5m to £8m in 2024, CKR is now looking to expand its services by establishing a traffic management division while maintaining cost-effectiveness in its operations, including vehicle expenditure.
Fleet manager Darren Wheatcroft of CKR Utilities connected with Hannah Pearson, Vanaways’ regional business development manager for the North and the Midlands, on LinkedIn. Pearson suggested a bespoke funding method for vehicle purchases that would result in significant cost savings for CKR. Wheatcroft expressed that the company’s ratio of purchased to hired vehicles is likely to increase over the coming years, as they aim to optimize availability and long-term cost efficiency.
Wheatcroft emphasized the importance of balancing the company’s vehicle fleet with its fluctuating workload, ensuring they do not acquire more vehicles than necessary. However, he acknowledged the advantages of owning vehicles in terms of availability and cost-effectiveness, making it a logical and financially sound decision for CKR. The company’s specific requirements, such as the ability to tow 3.5 tonnes and a 7 tonne gross train weight, necessitate a reliable partner like Vanaways that understands their business needs.
CKR Utilities was founded by director Craig Broadhurst in 2009 with a two-man team working on a private leakage contract. Over the years, the company has expanded to a team of 96 staff members working on various contracts across the North West region. Their diverse portfolio includes private leakage, plumbing works, repair and maintenance on the North West water network, developer services, fibre installation, electricity network maintenance, civil projects, and traffic light installation.
Vanaways, the chosen vehicle provider for CKR Utilities, is experiencing significant growth as well. The company recently relocated to new offices in Ham Green near the M5 at Bristol and has seen a substantial increase in turnover in 2023. With projections to deliver sales on over 6,000 vehicles in 2024, Vanaways prides itself on a vast network of suppliers across the UK, offering free delivery and a digitalized sales process for quick fulfillment of fleet needs.
Ms. Pearson highlighted the value of bringing a range of deals and suppliers to companies like CKR Utilities, customizing solutions that best suit their requirements. She emphasized the opportunities available for companies willing to explore alternatives such as electric vehicles over diesel and various finance packages. Vanaways aims to support growing businesses like CKR in their vehicle needs, understanding the crucial role vehicles play in their operations.
Subheadings:
The Growth Journey of CKR Utilities
Strategic Partnership with Vanaways
The Future of Fleet Management for CKR Utilities
CKR Utilities’ growth trajectory has been remarkable, with a significant increase in turnover and expansion into new services. The strategic partnership with Vanaways reflects the company’s commitment to efficiency and cost-effectiveness in its operations. As CKR continues to evolve and expand its fleet, the collaboration with Vanaways is poised to support their growth journey effectively.