Vanliners awarded 'special' status

Vanliners, in Raikes Lane Industrial estate, specialises in adapting vans for tradesman, motorway workers and emergency services and has been awarded accreditation to fit-out new, pre-registered vehicles.

This allows the firm to convert vehicles direct from manufacturers before they are sold to the public and given registration plates.

Janine Rees, the firm’s policy and procedures manager, said: “We are the only commercial vehicle conversion company in Bolton to have achieved this accreditation and, as far as we are aware, the only business of this nature in the North West to hold it.

“The accreditation was very difficult to achieve and the team at Vanliners, headed by Shaun Taylor, our sales manager, worked tirelessly to meet the stringent requirements set by VCA.

“We take pride in being part of the Bolton community and the majority of employees live here. Since gaining the award, we have seen our customer database rise significantly, allowing us to take on two extra full-time employees. Despite austerity measures and recession, we are investing time and money to improve our products and services.”

Mr Taylor, aged 58, from Farnworth, started with the firm when he was aged just 18 after he left Harper Green High School.

He said: “Many of our customers are small business-owners such as builders, plumbers and electricians. The vans are fitted out with shelving and act as mobile workshops. These vans save hours of travel and fuel expense in getting to trade suppliers. We also line the van interiors with plywood, which protects the value when they are later sold on.

“We also serve bigger utility, building and motorway firms with vehicles fitted with staff eating areas, microwaves, heating and toilets.

“These vans provide shelter and somewhere to rest for workers who can be out in all kinds of weather. We can also fit work lamps, slam-locks and rear steps.”

Van Liners also works closely with motor retailers in Bolton, such as Gordons Ford and Wilson & Co.

The firm has 30 staff and has recently taken on Mark Hollows, aged 24, and Sarah Thompson, aged 21.

Mrs Rees, from Westhoughton, said the firm placed great emphasis on staff development.

Declan Baites, aged 18, has been paired-up with Alan Mills to learn about using cutting machinery and turntable saws.

All staff are encouraged to obtain forklift truck driving licenses.

Production manager Paul Nenning, aged 31, from Little Hulton, said: “There are a lot of skills and experience invested in the firm. Whether it’s woodwork, electrics or welding, we look at each person’s interests and get them on courses that suit them.”

A £70,000 CNC cutting machine has been ordered, which will open up other opportunities.

The firm was founded by Dave Rees in 1993 who is now a joint managing director with Les Turner.

Mr Rees said: “The company has grown well and diversified over the years. We have never laid anyone off and have invested. We think it’s a great achievement, especially when we hear so much about the recession. The new accreditation and investment in machinery shows we have exciting plans for more expansion.”