Mercedes-Benz reliability means the world to Global Brands

Drinks manufacturer Global Brands has added another sparkling performer to its fleet of Mercedes-Benz delivery trucks, in the shape of its first New Actros tractor unit.

Working from Global Brands’ main distribution hub in Burton Upon Trent, the 6x2 New Actros 2545 has a flat-floored BigSpace cab and arrived via Mertrux, Derby. The same Dealer also supplied the operator’s four other tractor units and a 26-tonne rigid.

Global Brands supplies its range of alcoholic drinks to customers across the country, including wholesale outlets and brewery distribution centres.

“We’ve been a Mercedes-Benz customer for 15 years now,” says Transport Manager Kevin Hopkinson. “Its trucks have proved over that time to be very well engineered and extremely reliable, while they also have excellent cabs and are well-liked by our drivers.”

The Mercedes-Benz New Actros was last week (2 July) voted ‘Fleet Truck of the Year’ at the prestigious Motor Transport Awards 2014. Powered by a 330 kW (449 hp) six-cylinder engine, driving through a Mercedes PowerShift 3 automated transmission, Global Brands’ new vehicle wears an eye-catching livery that promotes the company’s award winning VK ready to drink beverages.

It is the subject of a CharterWay contract hire package from Mercedes-Benz Financial Services which includes full repair and maintenance cover – Mertrux also services the operator’s other vehicles under Mercedes-Benz Repair and Maintenance Contracts.

The Dealer’s workshop team conduct inspections and maintenance on Global Brands’ trucks, outside the operator’s normal business hours. “We typically drop off a vehicle on a Friday afternoon and pick it up again at 5.30am on Monday, so we rarely suffer any downtime,” says Mr Hopkinson. “We enjoy an excellent relationship with Mertrux, who are always very accommodating if we need a job doing at short notice.”

Purchasing Manager Catherine Roddis adds: “When choosing the supplier of our fleet trucks it’s imperative we secure a great service as well as the best price. Mertrux and Mercedes-Benz have proved themselves to offer excellent value for money year on year.”

One of the UK’s leading drinks brand development businesses and a renowned innovator, Global Brands owns, markets and distributes a range of products across the spirit, beer, RTD (pre-mixed) and energy drinks categories. In addition to VK – which is the only range offered in seven flavours, all mixed to 4% ABV – its portfolio includes Hooch, Kick Energy and Amigos Tequila Beer.

Global Brands was formed in 1997 and now exports to over 30 countries around the world including Germany, Spain and Africa. The company is currently expanding both its workforce and beverage portfolio.