DAF Trucks is witnessing an ‘epic response’ to the coronavirus outbreak from right across the DAF Dealer network. The market leader reports that, despite operating under hugely difficult circumstances, all 134 of its dealer locations are performing at, or very close to, normal service levels.
“We’re seeing nothing short of an epic response from the DAF Dealer network,” says DAF Trucks Managing Director, Laurence Drake, “the collective effort from DAF Technicians on the frontline of operations has been awe-inspiring, while the speedy transition to home-working from the office staff has been remarkable, too. The whole network has pulled together for its customers,” he says, “and my management team owes a debt of gratitude for the heroic resolve shown by all aspects of the business.”
Reports from a number of DAF Dealers describe a large-scale effort on the frontline of operations with workshop and DAFaid Technicians repeatedly going the extra mile for truck operators.
With many of its vehicles required for critical oxygen deliveries to hospitals, BOC Group has expressed its gratitude to Evans Halshaw DAF in Sheffield for completing essential repairs in double-quick time. “In this challenging period,” says Evans Halshaw National Franchise Director, Lester Freakley, “it’s paramount to keep supply chains operational. I’m extremely proud of how the truck teams across all our locations continue to deliver first-class customer service in unprecedented circumstances.”
Richard Crump, Managing Director at Pelican DAF in Castleford, says, “It’s an interesting reminder that our dealerships across the country have a vital role to play in keeping the food and NHS supply chain open. I have given everyone an extra week’s holiday next financial year to thank them for their huge effort,” says Crump, “I see many of my people overcoming their personal fears to keep the wheels rolling.”
Motus Commercials, one of DAF Trucks’ largest dealer groups, has also responded in impressive fashion. “Where employees can work from home, they are, and where they do need to come to the dealerships, we are following government guidelines,” says Commercial Director, Alan Ellison, “including social distancing and increased regular cleaning to ensure their safety. We have also created an internal ‘Not All Heroes Wear Capes’ poster campaign to help boost morale for the employees still working at our dealerships.”
“Our workshops are all open, and DAFaid Technicians are working. We are very much here to support the national effort against coronavirus.” he says, “Our employees have approached the situation with a can-do attitude and have all pulled together as a team. It’s working well.”
With families of its employees in mind, Motus Commercials has also created a ‘paint a rainbow’ competition for children.