Mercedes-Benz dependability wins Hickmans’ seal of approval
The promise of outstanding reliability and first-class after sales support tempted family firm Hickmans of Kidderminster to invest in its first Mercedes-Benz trucks for 27 years.
The new arrivals are a pair of Actros 2546 tractor units, with range-topping, flat-floored MegaSpace cabs, supplied by local dealer Mudie-Bond Group.
Partner Lorraine Hickman, who runs the company with husband Andrew, said: “We’ve had Mercedes-Benz trucks in the past, and we keep a careful eye on the market and speak to other operators, so we know the Actros is a dependable and well-engineered vehicle.
“But equally important to us is the quality of service, and I’ve been very impressed by what I’ve seen at Mudie-Bond – their after sales set-up looks professional and well-organised and the team, like their sales colleagues, are extremely helpful and friendly.”
She continued: “As well as working across the UK we also send drivers to the Continent, and the knowledge that Mercedes-Benz breakdown and service cover is there wherever or whenever we might need it is a weight off our minds.
“As far as I’m concerned, buying the cheapest lorry available is a false economy if you’re left stranded the first time it breaks down. I need to have a good rapport with my suppliers and I have full confidence in Mudie-Bond and Mercedes-Benz. I see them as part of my business – we’re all links in the chain that supplies a top quality service to our customers, and it’s vital that we work as a team to maintain that.”
Hickmans of Kidderminster has a staff of 18, including three children and now two grandchildren of founders Andrew and Lorraine. The company runs a fleet of 10 trucks, a combination of articulated units and rigids.
As a member of the Palletforce network, Hickmans uses its vehicles to make local collections and deliveries and trunk to a hub depot in Burton-on-Trent. It also provides haulage and warehousing services to its own customers.
The new Actros are working on long-distance UK and European work, which is why Hickmans opted for the top-specification, flat-floored MegaSpace cab.
“The cab is superb with very high quality living accommodation and bags of space,” said Mrs Hickman. “Providing a comfortable place of work for our drivers is very important when we’re asking them to stay out all week, not just for their own convenience but in terms of safety too.
“Any truck is only as safe as its driver, which is why we are very serious about making sure they are relaxed, rested and alert when they are out on the road.”
