Tradesman get £5K boost from Volkswagen

A Newark van centre has presented a £5,000 financial boost to a local tradesman just for taking a test drive.

Kevin Burton, owner of K & B Installations which specialises in fitted kitchen and bathrooms, was awarded the cheque after being entered into a prize draw following the test of the Volkswagen Crafter at Gilder Van Centre, previously Heron Van Centre.

The competition was aimed at giving a financial boost to tradesmen and van drivers’ businesses while also showcasing the benefits, capabilities and versatility of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ largest vehicle, the Crafter.

The self-employed fitter, who has been in business for over 24 years, provides an all-inclusive service as he is a qualified plumber, electrician and plasterer. As an authorised fitter for B&Q, Kevin works within a 50 miles radius of Mansfield and has always enjoyed the independence of working for himself.

Speaking of his win, Kevin said: “I was completely shocked when I was told I had won. Gilder Van Centre had been really helpful when I tested the Crafter which I needed to meet my growing business demand. I filled in the entry form and never gave it a second thought.

“I’m a real advocate of the Volkswagen range, my last vehicle was a Transporter which I found very reliable, and even drove like a car. I simply needed a larger van and, with all of this in mind, the Crafter seemed the ideal choice.

“The money will go towards upgrading my tools as well as investing in new equipment which will help make my job easier.”

Julie Gwilliam, head of business at Gilder Van Centre Newark, said: “We are delighted that one of our customers won this national prize draw.

“It is even more pleasing to know that Kevin has already purchased a new Crafter based on his test drive experience.”

For further information on the Crafter and the other models in the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle range, call Gilder Van Centre Newark on 01636 673 691 or visit www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk

SALES MANAGER GRADUATES FROM EXCLUSIVE COURSE

A Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles sales manager from Newark is celebrating after becoming one of the first in the country to graduate from a new two year training programme.

Cass Attwood from Heron Van Centre recently completed the course which was designed by the Volkswagen Training Academy to help retain some of the industry’s top talent.

The Northern Road manager had to complete a series of tough exams in law, customer service, product knowledge, coaching and recruitment to gain the NVQ Level 4 equivalent qualification.

Cass, who has worked at the retailer for four years and manages a team of four van specialists, said: “I found the course to be very comprehensive and beneficial.

“The qualification has given me extra knowledge and experience to ensure my team has the correct skill set to provide our commercial vehicle customers with the best service.”

The culmination of the course, which was assessed by exams and interviews, was presented to a panel of Volkswagen directors.

Julie Gwilliam, head of business at Heron Van Centre, said: “We believe having knowledgeable staff is paramount to the success of our business.

“The course is designed to equip some of our senior staff with the very best skills to deal with customers’ enquiries and to pass on to other employees.”

Cass was presented with her certificate by Simon Elliott, director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles UK.

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