The 8m aluminium curtainsider body with flush rear doors from Aire Truck Bodies can accommodate more than 270 full/430 empty 9gal firkins stacked four high, including the clearance needed for the hydraulic loading clamp used to secure them to the deck prior to shipping.  In addition, a wrap around restraint net hung from an inboard rail augments the concealed buckle curtains.

Supplied in time for the World Cup by Mercedes dealer Mudie-Bond at Oxford, the Mercedes chassis, a 2528 LLNR Lowliner 6x2 rigid, has a positive steer rear axle, air suspension and a running platform height of just 1m. The suspension can be lifted/lowered by 200mm/90mm, respectively, for dock levelling and to ease loading/unloading on site. The vehicle is plated for operation at 25tonnes gvw
 
In particular, the brewery wanted to increase fleet carrying capacity without adding to vehicle numbers while, at the same time, adding the flexibility to handle more efficiently a mix of trunking to wholesaler RDCs and ‘local’ deliveries to pubs, clubs and retail outlets where greater manoeuvrability would speed access. 

Greater manoeuvrability was also required to aid access to the brewery, built in the days of the horse and cart, the more so as a town centre location means that a clear approach/exit is often impeded by parked cars.

Speaking on delivery of the vehicle, David Russell, Wychwood Brewery’s warehouse manager, said: ‘This is the first time the brewery has opted for a dray tailored to meet its requirements, exactly.  The new vehicle certainly ticks all of the boxes.  It scores on manoeuvrability compared to the 18tonner - especially noticeable when moving in and out of the brewery; payload is increased by more than 50%; the vehicle takes the mix of trunking and ‘local’ delivery easily in its stride; and safety plus ease of loading/unloading have certainly been enhanced.’

For further information contact: Trevor Longcroft. Tel: 01564 775078.  Mob: 07831 572429