Bandvulc recently hosted a Key Partner Conference for its service providers, those dealers who form the backbone (some 80%) of Bandvulc Plus+ fleet coverage to its end-users. Bandvulc’s relationship with many of its KP members has developed over many years but, always looking to grow and expand its fleet business, the Group was also pleased to engage with new members at the event. Now consisting of some 25 members nationally its coverage across the UK and N. Ireland is 100% and enables Bandvulc’s sales team to propose and deliver comprehensive and bespoke fleet management solutions.
The conference was hosted at Bandvulc’s head office in Ivybridge and saw the dealers have an indepth facility tour, including BVMixing, Production, Warehouse and BVPlus+. The BVPlus+ element covered many new projects and ground breaking innovations, including Sword2. This is Galahad’s fleet inspection software which enables BVPlus+ service providers to enter their fleet inspections using a mobile device which is uploaded directly into Galahad. This new version of Sword allows fitters to view previous inspections and tread depths when inspecting vehicles. There is now also the facility to email a full inspection report from the phone directly to the end user at the end of the inspection.
Another aspect discussed was Bandvulc’s Express Allocation which is being rolled out to all its service providers. This means that any jobs passed to them will just need a 20 second call to see whether the fitter is available, has a tyre and can do the job – if ‘yes’ we can “express allocate” and the job will be automatically emailed to the depot contacts – no more having to highlight specific notes or instructions to them. This and many more topics form Project Engage – part of Bandvulc’s strategy to improve, plan, grow and develop by working ever closer with its partners.
Following the factory visit dealers were transported to the Vue Cinema in Plymouth where the key messages and business plans were delivered. Starting with the usual cinema format of adverts and trailers prior to the main event, these were specially designed with the usual Bandvulc twist and humour. There followed an address by Patrick O’Connell, BV Group MD, whose family started the company in 1971 and for whom the acquisition was a major event. This was followed by a video welcome message from Nikolai Setzer, Member of the Executive Board – Tire Division, Continental. In it Nikolai explained the rationale behind Continental’s acquisition of Bandvulc and stressed the important role the Key Partners play in the company’s day-to-day business. The conference continued with Phil West, Group Commercial Director BV, enlarging on Project Engage and the company’s focus on constantly moving forward to remain at the forefront of tyre management with added value. In seeing changes as opportunities both Bandvulc and Continental are able to combine strengths and expertise to take the business forward in great strides and its Key Partners will all enjoy the success that this will bring.