Charity jump to raise hundreds for Children in Need

Players from Derby County Football Club are teaming up with a Mackworth business to help raise hundreds of pounds for this year’s Children in Need appeal.

Imperial Commercials, Derby’s dedicated Volkswagen commercial vehicle site, is inviting the members of the public to join its staff and Derby county players in a charity bungee jump fun day, taking place on Friday 18th November.

The Ashbourne Road van centre team will be plummeting 175 feet in a series of sponsored bungee jumps and welcomes visitors to take their own charity plunge to help raise funds for the annual children’s appeal.

The bungee jump will be erected in the Volkswagens forecourt and will take place between 10:30am and 4pm, refreshments will also be available.

The Derby County Football Club players will be available in the afternoon to greet fans and sign autographs.

Van drivers will also have the opportunity to get Derby County match day tickets as 20 pairs will be up for grabs to anyone who test drives a new Volkswagen vehicle on the day.

Matthew Lawrenson, regional director at Imperial Commercials, said: “This is a great opportunity for the business to help raise awareness and money for a worthy cause.

“Staff are busy fundraising for their bungee jumps and we hope that other members of the public take advantage of the 175 feet plunge and give generously.

“We are delighted that players from Derby County are joining us and hope the day is a huge success and lots of money is raised to support the vital work done by Children in Need.”

Further charity fundraising action will see three teams of Imperial Commercials staff compete in a “jailbreak” race on Friday 18th November. The teams will be dropped off ten miles from the van centre in fancy dress outfits, they will then have to race back to the site, blagging their way without using any money or mobile phones.

A suitable donation to Children in Need is requested for all bungee jumps by the general public, availability will be on a first come basis.

NATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR NEW BUSINESS

A Derby-based Volkswagen van centre is celebrating after receiving national recognition for its partnership with local businesses and community projects.

Imperial Commercials Volkswagen Van Centre on Ashbourne Road was awarded the ‘Most Valued Van Centre’ for its marketing strategy by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles UK at a glittering award ceremony in London’s Canary Wharf, hosted by Sir Trevor McDonald.

The Volkswagen van centre, which is only in its first year of business, has established strong relationships with Derby County Football Club and local radio stations by helping to support and raise the profile of the business’ charity and community work.

Earlier this year, the Ashbourne Road van centre provided Derby County FC’s mascot, Rammie, with a vehicle to support his growing number of local public appearances. It was the first time for such a sponsorship, and has helped to increase the number of school activities, charity events and local attractions that Rammie can now attend.

Speaking of the annual accolade, which saw the new Volkswagen business beat 71 other van centres, Matt Lawrenson, regional director of Imperial Commercials, said: “We are delighted to have received this award, especially with it being such a young business to the brand.’’

“We believe it is integral to our success to support local initiatives, businesses and charity projects that will ultimately benefit the community.”

Volkswagen Commercials Vehicles UK closely monitors all aspects of its van centres’ operations from customer satisfaction and aftersales through to sales and key business performance. Scores are collated throughout the year, accumulating in the annual result.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles UK director, Simon Elliot, who presented the award, added: “The Imperial Commercials team demonstrated a clear understanding of its community opportunities and surpassed its competitors with its past and ongoing marketing strategy.”

The Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle award ceremony took place at East Wintergarden in Canary Wharf, London which saw entertainment provided by X-Factor star and I’m a Celebrity’s ‘Queen of the Jungle’, Stacey Solomon.

For further information contact Sue Foster on 01902 714 957 or sue@connect-group.com.

RAMMIE GETS NEW CADDY

Derby County’s mascot, Rammie, visited a Volkswagen van centre on Ashbourne Road to accept an early Christmas present which will help support his growing number of public appearances.

Imperial Commercials Van Centre has given Rammie its first brand new Caddy van to replace his older model, as part of its two-year sponsorship with Derby County Football Club.

The brightly coloured van enables the Derby County star to attend a host of school, charity and local events throughout the year in addition to birthdays and weddings. The spacious new Caddy provides enough room to transport his inflatable goal and equipment.

Derby County CEO and president, Tom Glick, said: “This is the first time we have received such a sponsorship and the partnership with Imperial Commercials Volkswagen Van Centre has proved to be indispensable for Rammie.

“We were delighted with our previous Caddy but the new model certainly looks stylish and its new features make it even more enjoyable for Rammie to drive.

“We feel very privileged and proud to be one of the first new Caddy drivers on Derby roads.”

Matthew Lawrenson, regional director of Imperial Commercials said: “The new Volkswagen Caddy has had an exterior facelift and due its energy efficient BlueMotion technology it will signify reduced running costs.

“We are delighted to strengthen our support with Derby County and look forward to seeing the stylish new Rammie on the road.”

For further information please contact Sue Foster on 01902 714957 or email sue@connect-group.com.

FESTIVE OPENING FOR £500,000 BUSINESS

Families were treated to a festive wonderland experience over the weekend to mark the official opening of a new £500,000 van centre.

Imperial Commercials Volkswagen Van Centre in Stoke-on-Trent transformed its forecourt into a hive of wintery attractions including a 12 square metre ice rink, falconry display and over 20 Christmas market stalls.

The company has invested heavily in the state-of-the-art showroom, forecourt and 24-hour workshop and wanted to make its launch a memorable event for customers and their families.

Guests were also entertained by live band, Crysis, and a vintage vehicle display as they enjoyed mince pies and browsed the market stalls for Christmas gift ideas.

The younger generations got to grips with the bouncy castle, ice rink and penguin ice scooter, with some going home with their faces painted and temporary glitter tattoos.

Imperial Commercials, Executive Director, Geoff Haspell, said: “We are delighted with the success of the day.

“We wanted to make the opening a special family affair and given the time of the year we felt the wintery and festive attractions would add to the day’s enjoyment,”

“The investment and recent celebrations confirms our commitment to businesses and van operators in the area and “the introduction of the Volkswagen brand enables Imperial Commercials to enter new markets, where we are looking forward to meeting and working with new light commercial vehicle customers ” concluded Geoff.

The four acre site on Leek New Road has undergone a complete refurbishment to accommodate the new Volkswagen Van Centre. It sits alongside its existing DAF truck dealership, strengthening the commercial vehicle specialist’s presence in the area.

Imperial Commercials is the UK’s largest Independent Commercial Vehicle Dealer Group. It supplies both new and used trucks and vans including servicing and parts from its extensive network of franchises including Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, DAF Trucks, Ford Commercials, FIAT Professional, MAN Trucks, Renault Trucks, Nissan Commercial Vehicles, ISUZU Trucks and HINO Trucks.

For further information contact Sue Foster on 01902 714957 or email sue@connect-group.com.

DERBY BUSINESS LAUNCHES NEW TRAINEE PROGRAMME

A Derby business has launched the success of its new apprentice training programme.

Imperial Commercials Volkswagen Van Centre received over 250 applicants for the one position as a Volkswagen sales trainee.

The programme is designed to help encourage young new talent into the automotive industry.

Megan Stamp, from Alvaston, accepted the sales trainee role and now begins an 18-month intensive training programme, which will see her experience and learn all aspects of the business.

The 19-year-old successfully completed three interviews in which she faced various managers plus a panel of employees from the Derby team, before being offered the Volkswagen position.

As one of the UK’s largest truck dealership networks, Imperial Commercials presently operates a three year apprenticeship scheme for technicians in conjunction with Derby College and was named as a regional finalist in the National Apprenticeship Awards, earlier this year.

The company believes it is vitally important to invest in the future and it’s this commitment that has led to its latest role as Matthew Lawrenson, regional director of Imperial Commercials, explained.

“Our aim is to bring young new blood into the industry and therefore we feel there needs to be a clear framework to help nurture and develop the right skills for these individuals, after all these apprentices could be our future managers.

“The series of interviews enabled various team members to be instrumental in the recruitment process. We have received very positive feedback on this style of interviewing from both Megan and our team.

“This new apprentice training programme may be still in its infancy but we have been so pleased with the response and calibre of applicants that we plan to implement it across our network.”

For further information please contact Sue Foster on 01902 714957 or email sue@connect-group.com.

EARLY SUCCESS FOR NEW BUSINESS

A Stoke commercial vehicle business is celebrating its official opening after securing a £250,000 deal with a vehicle hire company.

Imperial Commercials Van Centre Stoke recently transformed its four acre site after investing £500,000 in to a new state-of-the-art Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle showroom.

The first company to benefit from the new Volkswagen van centre is Afford Rent-a-Car which has confirmed a fleet of 14 commercial vehicles to add to the 20 Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles purchased earlier this year.

The vehicles which include the Caddy, Transporter and Crafter models will be distributed across its four branches in Stoke, Stafford, Newcastle-under-Lyme and Crewe.

A strong residual value of the Volkswagen range, reliability and customer choice led to the recent acquisition as Afford director, Tony Dobson explained.

He said: “The Volkswagen Transporter is our most popular van with customers. We replace our commercial vehicles every 18 months to two years and presently have over 50 Volkswagens on our fleet. The excellent residual value, reliability and customers requests led to us increasing our Volkswagen fleet.

“We have been delighted with the service from the Imperial Commercials team; no job is too small for them.

“Their professional service has made the whole process effortless. We would like to wish Imperial all the success with their new business.”

Imperial Commercials, executive director, Geoff Haspell, said: “This has been a very exciting time for our business. This first deal confirms our commitment to van operators in our area.”

Imperial Commercials is the UK’s largest Independent Commercial Vehicle Dealer Group. It supplies both new and used trucks and vans including servicing and parts from its extensive network of franchises including Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, DAF Trucks, Ford Commercials, FIAT Professional, MAN Trucks, Renault Trucks, Nissan Commercial Vehicles, ISUZU Trucks and HINO Trucks. For further information please visit www.imperialcommercials.co.uk.

For further information contact Sue Foster on 01902 714957 or email sue@connect-group.com.

HALF MILLION POUND BUSINESS INVESTMENT FOR NORTH STAFFORDSHIRE

Imperial Commercials, the UK’s largest independent commercial vehicle group, has invested half a million pounds in a new state-of-the-art van centre which will see the return of the Volkswagen brand to The Potteries and South Cheshire area.

Imperial Commercials has transformed a four acre site on Leek New Road, Cobridge which will provide a 24 hour workshop, showroom and forecourt display for over 40 Volkswagen vehicles.

The redevelopment will expand the commercial vehicle specialist’s presence in Stoke and bring new jobs to the area.

The existing site has been home to Imperial Commercials DAF truck dealership for over 20 years and has been refurbished as part of the redevelopment programme and will remain at this location. The new Volkswagen Van Centre and showroom will be situated at the front of the building.

Imperial Commercials, Executive Director, Geoff Haspell, said: “We are delighted to bring the Volkswagen brand to the area. We now have two ‘world class’ franchise partners which will ensure that more customers will benefit from our commercial vehicle expertise.

“The highly regarded Volkswagen range continues to expand which will allow the van centre to enter new markets locally and provide a more comprehensive service for van operators.

“As part of the new development we’ve created new jobs and have a combined staffing level of 56 employees across the site with future growth expected as the new business division strengthens.

“Keeping a business fleet on the road is of paramount importance so our 24 hour opening will provide our customers with the facility to get their vehicles serviced overnight, so minimizing any downtime.”

The management team consists of Volkswagen Van Centre, Head of Business, Gareth Kaye, Sales Manager, Simon Jackson, Service Manager, Des Todd and Parts Manager, Rob Sherratt.

Imperial Commercials is the UK’s largest Independent Commercial Vehicle Dealer Group. It supplies both new and used trucks and vans including servicing and parts from its extensive network of franchises including Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, DAF Trucks, Ford Commercials, FIAT Professional, MAN Trucks, Renault Trucks, Nissan Commercial Vehicles, ISUZU Trucks and HINO Trucks.

For further information contact Sue Foster or Becki Oake on 01902 714957 or email sue@connect-group.com / becki@connect-group.com

OVER HALF A MILLION POUNDS INVESTED INTO A LOCAL BUSINESS CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF BUSINESS

A former LDV dealership is celebrating after being in business for 50 years in addition to completing it’s transformation into a new Ford Dealership.

Imperial Commercials on Park Road, Halesowen has been in business for 50 years and self generated £725,000 to refurbish their whole site to become a new Ford Commercial Vehicle dealership in the West Midlands.

The investment has seen Imperial Commercials transform their original showroom. The new showroom allows for three vans to be displayed in addition to the 25 vehicles outside.

The move to a Ford dealership has already reflected positively on half yearly sales, with Imperial Commercials smashing target in quarter one and quarter two looks to be just as successful.

Franchise manager, John Asbury said: “We’re moving forward from our days as an LDV dealer and looking towards the future. The investment to be a Ford Dealership, we hope, will continue to grow the business and improve the services available to commercial vehicle customers in the area.

“I believe Imperial Commercials success comes down to key business fundamentals which are promises on price, products, delivery and aftersales support. By exceeding these customer expectations we can expect another 50 years in business.”

The site which employs 130 people, offer customers 24 hour aftersales service, parts supply, bodywork, paint and accident repair.

To find out more about Imperial Commercials Halesowen call 01384 424 500

HOT NEW WHEELS FOR RAMMIE

Derby County FC mascot, Rammie, will take to the road in a brand new personalised vehicle, following a two year sponsorship deal with Imperial Commercials Van Centre.

The Derby-based Volkswagen dealer has supplied Rammie with a Caddy van to support his growing number of public appearances in the area.

It is the first time that Rammie has received such a sponsorship and the brightly coloured Caddy even gets an exclusive place next to the club directors in the West Stand car park.

Rammie is regularly asked to attend school activities, charity events and local attractions in addition to birthdays and weddings. The new vehicle will enable the Derby County star to safely transport his inflatable goal and equipment to future events.

Derby County CEO and President, Tom Glick, said: “We are very grateful to Imperial Commercials for their commitment and support. Previously Rammie had to struggle to get all of his gear to the events but now he can safely travel in style.

“The spacious Volkswagen Caddy will accommodate all Rammie’s equipment and the striking livery and alloy wheels will certainly make it easy for fans to spot him on the roads.”

Matt Lawrenson, regional director of Imperial Commercials, said: “We feel it’s important to support our local clubs and businesses and as big Derby County fans there is no better way to show our support?”

Picture Caption 01: L-r, Matthew Lawrenson , regional director of Imperial Commercials, Rammie, Matt Lee, Imperial Commercial sales manager and Nigel Clough, manager of Derby County FC.

For further information please contact Sue Foster on 01902 714957 or email suefoster@connect-group.com

IMPERIAL COMMERCIALS LOOKS FORDWARD WITH NEW SLOGAN

Imperial Commercials of Halesowen has revealed its new slogan thanks to imaginative kids at a local primary school.

Re-launched under the Ford brand name, the light commercial vehicle specialists will use the catchphrase ‘Looking Fordward’ as devised by pupils of St. James’s C of E Primary School in Stourbridge.

The competition was opened up to primary schools across the region with £500 awarded to the winning school.

Imperial Commercials of Halesowen opened up its doors to van operators across the region earlier this month having previously been hit by the collapse of the Birmingham van maker LDV.

John Asbury, franchise manager at Imperial Commercials Halesowen, said: “Our new slogan fits perfectly alongside our focused and professional approach, which makes us the first choice for commercial vehicle operators in the West Midlands.”

Based on Park Road, Imperial Commercials of Halesowen boasts two of the leading brands in the commercial vehicle sector. With a comprehensive range of Ford and DAF vehicles available, Imperial Commercial’s promises on price, products, delivery and aftersales support has underlined their professional service provision for nearly 50 years

To find out more about Imperial Commercials Halesowen call 01384 424 500

ENDS

News release issued by Connect PR.

For further information, please contact Lee Southen on 01902 714957 or email lee@connect-group.com.

NEW BEGINNING FOR FORMER LDV DEALER

A former LDV dealership will open its doors to van operators across the region by officially announcing its status as a Ford Commercial Vehicle dealer on July 1, 2009.

Imperial Commercials of Halesowen will celebrate the news with a four day opening event that gives customers the chance to view their wide choice of light commercial vehicles. The week will culminate with a fun day on Saturday for van drivers and their families.

The Deputy Lord Mayor of Dudley, representatives from Ford and existing customers will kick off the festivities at the Park Road dealership, which now boasts two of the leading brands in the commercial vehicle sector.

John Asbury, franchise manager at Imperial Commercials Halesowen, said: “We believe that our comprehensive range of Ford and DAF vehicles, alongside our focused and professional approach, make us the first choice for commercial vehicle operators in the West Midlands.

“We very much look forward to welcoming new and existing customers to our opening event. It’s at this time we can showcase our promises on price, products, delivery and aftersales support that has underlined our professional service provision for nearly 50 years.”

A bouncy castle, face painting, magicians and a host of interactive games will entertain families on Saturday July 4, 2009. Admission is free with doors opening from 10am – 4pm.

To find out more about Imperial Commercials Halesowen call 01384 424 500

ENDS

News release issued by Connect PR.

For further information, please contact Lee Southen on 01902 714957 or email lee@connect-group.com.