En Route takes flight with first new vehicle from Vanaways and CoolKit

The first temperature-controlled van to be supplied under a new partnership between independent vehicle supply specialist Vanaways and leading convertor CoolKit has gone to En Route International – a global food service and supply chain partner to many of the world’s leading airlines and airline catering organisations.

The Windsor-based operator’s new Peugeot Boxer is now hard at work visiting customers and suppliers nationwide, supporting the company’s sales, technical, design and new product teams.

Myles Brown, Head of Contracts Management at En Route, commented: “When the time came for our business to start looking for a new van, to replace our previous vehicle, the team at Vanaways were instrumental in their expertise and guidance.

“We were very impressed with the impartial advice and input from Business Development Director Liam Nicholas. His help was invaluable.”

The Boxer, with the longest-available L4 body and highest H3 roof, was sourced by Vanaways from its extensive supply network before being sent to CoolKit’s workshop in Burnley for conversion. Fitted with Coolkit’s own proprietary insulation, including a ‘slab’ side door, and a GAH Super Rapier refrigeration unit, the cargo area is capable of maintaining temperatures as low as -20oC. It also has a sliding bulkhead, which allows the interior to be split into two compartments as required, with one for frozen items and the other carrying chilled goods.

“Once we’d decided on a vehicle model the whole process was very quick and simple,” said Mr Brown.

“The partnership between Vanaways and Coolkit meant we didn’t have to deal with two separate suppliers, we were kept fully informed throughout and the van arrived in perfect condition well inside the agreed timescale.

“The conversion work is top-quality too. The adjustable bulkhead makes the van extremely adaptable to a range of uses, and the in-built temperature monitoring system allows us to offer customers a printed guarantee that cold chain integrity has been maintained throughout any journey.”

Launched earlier this year, the agreement between Vanaways and CoolKit means customers can now take advantage of the former’s speedy, simple ordering system – in conjunction, if required, with the bodybuilder’s online configurator – to create their perfect refrigerated van.

“The partnership is yet another extension of our service to busy van operators,” said Liam Nicholas. “By working closely with CoolKit we aim to make the acquisition process for these specialist vehicles as quick and easy as possible, while ensuring that conversion work is carried out to a guaranteed high standard.

“Our two companies share a very strong customer service ethos and we’re determined to show our customers that the best way to get a first-class chilled van on the road fast, is to order through Vanaways and CoolKit.”

CoolKit Chief Executive Rupert Gatty added: “Like Vanaways we pride ourselves on being an innovative, dynamic business. We’re both fully focused on quality, customer care and making the purchasing process as easy it can be. Our recently launched online configurator, accessible through our website, is a perfect example of this ground-breaking approach.”

Impressed: That’s En Route Head of Contracts Management Myles Brown, with his new Citroen Boxer from Vanaways