Mercedes-Benz van sales trainee Kuldip Mann knocked at the firm’s door while visiting prospective customers on an industrial estate in south-east London.
Niblock Electrical director Gary Goble said: “He was in the right place at the right time. We weren’t happy with our previous transport arrangements so we asked him in for a chat.
“He returned the following day with senior colleague Dan Brunning, who was able to outline the Mercedes-Benz offer in more detail, and from there on it was a ‘no brainer’ – we placed our first Citan orders shortly afterwards and haven’t looked back since.”
Niblock initially commissioned two Extra-long Citan 109 CDI Extra-long models with 90hp engines, and a pair of 110hp Citan 111 CDIs, a Long and an Extra-long variant. It has since taken delivery of four more 109 CDI Extra-longs and has just ordered another two.
All eight vehicles were specified with optional Drivers Packs, which add air conditioning and an ultrasonic rear parking aid, as well as electric folding mirrors and a centre armrest with stowage compartment.
The vans have been assigned to the firm’s engineers, who install and maintain systems for domestic, commercial and industrial clients throughout the South-East.
“Our engineers love their new vans,” said Goble. “I’ve driven one myself and with the air conditioning and all-round comfort the experience at the wheel is more like a high-end car than a van.
“The guys are definitely making fewer visits to the filling station than they did previously, while the Citans look great too – the three-pointed star on the front is recognised as a badge of quality and can only enhance our own image.”
The new vans have been supplied under CharterWay contract hire agreements from Mercedes-Benz Financial Services, under which they will be maintained at Sparshatts’ Dartford workshop.
Goble added: “Sparshatts are commercial vehicle specialists and offer overnight and weekend servicing. This suits us down to the ground, because it means our vans will always be available for work when we need them.”
