While the Cold Meece logistics centre is often described as the jewel in the grs crown, the Staffordshire site is also home to a hidden gem - the company's transport service which ensures vehicles reach retailer forecourts without delay.
"As a company we're focused on making it easy for retailers to buy trade vehicles," says Andy Bourne, Logistics Co-ordinator. "However, that extends beyond the actual purchase to include delivery as well. Once retailers have purchased their vehicles, naturally they want to get them on sale as soon as they can. That's where we come in."
The transport team aims to have delivered vehicles within two working days following receipt of cleared funds to any destination on the UK mainland - from Land's End to John O'Groats.
Three vehicles or fewer tend to be driven under trade plates, while four or more will normally be sent by transporter. The total cost depends on the distance, worked out on a system of 25-mile zones, while the team will provide a bespoke quote for distances of more than 300 miles.
As well as being cost-competitive, the service also takes all the hassle out of the process. "Retailers are busy people and most don't want to collect vehicles themselves, as it takes them away from what really matters - running their businesses," says Andy.
"When we take care of the transport, we really take care of it," he continues. "We take all the stress away and in the unlikely event of any damage occurring to vehicles en-route, we'll take care of that too."
Despite the transport service being an essential 'back office' function, the trade plate and transporter drivers play an important front-of-house role, particularly when handing over vehicle keys. "We choose our drivers very carefully and only work with the best," explains Andy. "They have to be professional, smart and trustworthy as they're important ambassadors for grs."
This view is endorsed by Antony Timmis who runs a fleet of transporters based at Cold Meece. "Any business is based on trust and we've built great relationships with many retailers who rely on us to get their vehicles to them quickly," he says.
"Although it can often take several weeks to receive something you buy on the internet, we aim to get cars and commercial vehicles to retailers across the country within two working days, whatever the weather throws at us. That's something I'm proud of."
For more information on the grs transport service please contact Andy Bourne on
