BEATING the opposition into submission – that would appear to be on Ford’s agenda at the moment.
Not only is it far and away the UK’s most popular CV brand when it comes to new van sales, with an excellent range of new models, but they’ve now turned their attention to the dealer network with the announcement of the new Transit24 scheme and the roll-out of impressive new Transit Centres.
Sure the investment will need to be substantial but if Ford gets this right it will only serve to strengthen its grip on the UK CV market. The Blue Oval’s roll-out of 100 enhanced van sales and servicing centres over the coming months and years goes much further and deeper than new carpets and a lick of paint.
‘If Ford gets this right it will only serve to strengthen its grip on the UK CV market’
Recognising the importance in today’s fast paced work environment of flexibility, the benefits of the new Transit Centres’s extended opening hours and improved service levels remains to be seen.
But Ford is promising priority for urgent repairs, while-you-wait servicing and an improved recalls programme.
You can argue that nothing Ford is planning to do is out of the ordinary but that would be missing the point.
The UK’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer has recognised that it needs to operate on a united front – regardless of location – and by setting, confirming and reaffirming certain commitments, it is saying to customers old and new that you can rely on them to minimise your downtime and control costs.
Even with the economy beginning an upwards trajectory these are still key messages for businesses, both large and small.
