Dover-based GK Friend Haulage has enhanced its longstanding ties with Fruehauf after adding two stepframe bathtub tipping trailers to its fleet to support business growth.
The 70 cubic yard capacity rib sided bathtubs become the fourth and fifth Fruehauf trailers to join the fleet in the past 12 months, with a further four due for delivery in August.
These latest arrivals join the company’s 35-strong trailer fleet and will be used to transport grain, cereal products, animal feed and aggregates.
Nearly all of the company’s trailers have been supplied by Fruehauf, in a relationship that spans more than three decades.
Matthew Friend, Managing Director of GK Friend Haulage, says he and his father Graham, who founded the company in 1978, are repeat Fruehauf customers for several reasons.
“The durability and performance of the trailers is second to none and the build quality is excellent. They’re more spacious than some of our other trailers, allowing us to increase the payload for bulkier products and improve the efficiency of the business,” he says.
“The payload capacity is a big advantage for our long-distance haulage work, while the thicker floors are ideal for transporting aggregates. In my view, the paint finish is also superior to any comparable product on the market.”
Built at Fruehauf’s extensive manufacturing facility in Grantham, Lincolnshire, the bathtubs are specified with reverse and internal cameras to aid load security and driver safety. They also include an air-operated tailgate, smartphone-enabled weigher and a Dawbarn Hydroclear electric sheeting system. Operating with 6×2 tractor units, they are each expected to cover around 120,000 km per year.
“An added bonus is the drivers appreciate their ease of tipping and that they require little cleaning after unloading,” Friend says.
“Fruehauf Business Development Manager, Karl Spooner, has certainly gone the extra mile to look after our business needs, ensuring we have the best tipping trailers. He epitomises great customer service and is a big part of why we continue to buy from Fruehauf.”
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Note to editors:
Leading specialist truck and applications dealer MV Commercial completed a multi-million pound deal to acquire Fruehauf out of administration in October 2021. The deal saw MV provide a secure future for the well known brand as well as protecting 120 jobs. An immediate cash injection and commitment to further investment over the next three years make up part of the deal alongside a modernisation of Fruehauf’s Grantham site.
For further information, please contact:
Mike Keeler or Mark Bisson at Garnett Keeler PR
Tel: 020 8647 4467
Email: mike.keeler@garnettkeeler.com | mark.bisson@garnettkeeler.com
MVF/009/23
