Mercedes-Benz CharterWay has renewed its non-cancellable
contract hire deal with bathroom supplier Qualitex over five years
with maintenance.

The addition of six new Atego 816 Luton Box vehicles to the
Kent-based company takes its fleet to 28, and underlines the
advantages of contract hire in the current economic climate,
according to Rael Winetroube, general manager contract hire at
Mercedes-Benz CharterWay.

“In the last five years the sector has recorded continual
growth,” Winetroube pointed out. “However, we’re seeing a slowdown,
but the level of activity has remained stable for us and we haven’t
had to revise our underwriting criteria. As a captive manufacturer,
maintenance and re-seller, we can continue to offer attractive
rates and liquidity to our clients. This, in turn, enables our
clients to run their businesses efficiently.”

The growing fleet means distribution costs need to be carefully
controlled, said Duncan Andrews, Qualitex MD. “This relationship
means we can do that,” he added.