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BOTT LIMITED

PRESS RELEASES 2008

BOT08/16: NEW INCIDENT COMMAND UNIT FOR WEST SUSSEX (20 October 2008)

BOT08/15: CLASSIC HONDAS RACE BETTER WITH HELP FROM BOTT (22 September 2008)

BOT08/14: BOTT AND PHVC SUPPLY SOUND ADVICE (8 September 2008)

BOT08/13: NEW VEHICLES BUT SAME BOTT RACKING FOR TK CURTAIN REPAIRS (17 July 2008)

BOT08/11: LOUGHBOROUGH FORKLIFTS CHOOSES BOTT AGAIN (30 June 2008)

BOT08/10: BOTT WINS BUSINESS AWARD FOR INNOVATION (30 May 2008)

BOT08/09: BOTT WINS ITM AWARD AGAIN (15 May 2008)

BOT08/08: INFINIS RENEWS VEHICLE FLEET WITH BOTT ENHANCEMENT DIVISION (23 April 2008)

BOT08/04: BOTT SELECTED BY SELECTA (11 March 2008)

BOT08/03: PRIDE, PASSION, PEOPLE: BOTT AT CV SHOW 2008 (29 February 2008)

BOT08/02: STONE HARDY SPRINTERS BETTER WITH BOTT (13 February 2008)

BOT08/01: BOTT MODULO: SMALL VAN STORAGE ENHANCED (10 January 2008)

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

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PRESS INFORMATION (TOP)

Issue Date: 20 October 2008
Ref: BOT08/16

NEW INCIDENT COMMAND UNIT FOR WEST SUSSEX

A new Mobile Incident Command Unit based on a Ford 4.25T GVW Transit Jumbo has been prepared for West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (WSF&RS) by commercial vehicle enhancement specialist Bott. The vehicle will be used by WSF&RS to co-ordinate the activities of emergency vehicles and personnel at incidents in the area. To the exterior Bott installed an awning complete with removable front and side panels that effectively doubles the size of the available accommodation.

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A new Mobile Incident Command Unit based on a Ford 4.25T GVW Transit Jumbo has been prepared for West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (WSF&RS) by commercial vehicle enhancement specialist Bott. The vehicle will be used by WSF&RS to co-ordinate the activities of emergency vehicles and personnel at incidents in the area. Bott managed the overall conversion process and worked with specialist equipment providers to ensure the project was completed on time to provide WSF&RS with a single point of contact.

“This replaces our existing Incident Command Unit with an upgraded vehicle with better facilities to help us co-ordinate activities at local incidents,” says Tim Smart, Resource & Development Manager, West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service. “We worked with Bott because they had delivered good service to other emergency services in our transport officers group. They have been really helpful throughout the project and delivered a vehicle which is suited to its purpose.”

Bott attended a briefing with representatives of WSF&RS and Ford Special Vehicle Preparations, which supplied the basic vehicle with emergency service lights, to agree a detailed specification. The multi-tasking role of the vehicle required a range of facilities to support officers’ ability to respond rapidly and co-ordinate actions of emergency vehicles and personnel at incidents. This included electronic, communications and computing equipment that enables the Rescue Service to receive, process and view images and information from multiple sources.

Power for the on-board services is initially provided by an integrated onboard generator system driven by the vehicle’s own engine but a separate generator is used after the first 20 minutes. To avoid the risk of electrical interference with sensitive equipment the generator must ideally be positioned away from the vehicle. Bott devised and installed a plinth that slides out from the vehicle and presents the generator at the right position for safe handling to a suitable location. The vehicle can also connect to a nearby mains supply, if one is available, via an on-board transformer.

The interior of the vehicle includes workstations and seating for three officers and a commander. Bott also installed lighting, air-conditioning and specialist storage equipment including drawer units from its standard Normline range and special bespoke units that it created for TV, computing and radio equipment. One of the biggest challenges during the enhancement was to install the numerous electrical circuits and sockets needed to power the various pieces of equipment.

To the exterior Bott installed an awning complete with removable front and side panels that effectively doubles the size of the available accommodation. It also fitted stabiliser legs that are interlocked with the ignition to prevent the vehicle being moved until they are safely retracted. The company sourced additional specialist equipment for WSF&RS including special thermal imaging systems with remote viewing capabilities.

Bott co-ordinated with the computer and radio suppliers to arrange a suitable time for them to visit and install their own equipment. For example, separate radio systems are required for WSF&RS to communicate with its own sites and vehicles as well as those based in neighbouring counties. Additional equipment installed by third parties when visiting Ashby included flat panel screens that allow officers to view images and maps showing the location of appliances.

All of the enhancement work was completed at Bott’s facility in Ashby. Regular meetings between the various parties ensured the specification was reviewed and modified right up to the point when the vehicle was ready for delivery. In this way Bott provided a single point of contact for the customer that simplified the overall project management and supply of the vehicle.

“Bott took on board our suggestions at every stage and couldn’t have been more helpful,” says Tim Smart. “The build quality was really good and they delivered a vehicle which is matched to our requirement.”

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PRESS INFORMATION (TOP)

Issue Date: 22 September 2008
Ref: BOT08/15

(Caption Left: John Davies with a 500cc Honda motorcycle.)

(Caption Right: John Davies with a 500cc Honda motorcycle.)

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Classic motor cycle race team Davies Motorsport has been enjoying a successful season during 2008 thanks to support from workshop and in-vehicle storage specialist Bott. The team has competed in 15 races around the country, including the famous Manx TT on the Isle of Man, and won two championships organised by the Classic Racing Motorcycle Club. As part of its overall sponsorship Bott has paid the team’s race entry fees, supplied specialist storage equipment used at the team’s race-preparation workshop, provided high quality graphics for use on the bikes and offered technical advice.

“The support from Bott is important because it helps us to be well organised in the workshop and competitive on the track,” says John Davies. “We also need to look and act like professionals and having the right graphics on the bikes and vehicles is a big help.”

John Davies founded the team in 2004 following a successful 20 year career in modern day racing. Based in Swadlincote, Derbyshire, the team specialises in classic racing with its Hondas, two 500cc and three 350cc, based on the 1972 models. The racing surprisingly competitive and the team does its own development work to improve the performance of the machines. Certain aspects of the original bikes must be retained but modifications to improve the power of the engines, for example, are allowed within the rules. This means that the 2008 bikes are faster than the 1970s originals. In addition to its own bikes the team prepares machines for sale to other riders and teams and has supplied over 15 in the past year.

Although the team was established to have fun on the race days there is an underlying commitment to competitiveness that is evidenced by the way the bikes are prepared. The workshop is immaculate with all tools, components and equipment stored neatly and tidily.

“You cannot do without the racking and storage,” says John Davies. “Every team has to have proper equipment such as shelving to be organised.”

The relationship with Bott started following a chance meeting between John Davies and Stephen Turner, the company’s Special Vehicles Operations Director, in a local pub. Bott initially offered to help by preparing and applying some high quality graphics on to the team’s van to give it a more professional appearance. As the relationship developed the company supplied a special workbench with built-in storage drawers and some shelving and racking for use at the race preparation workshop. Most of this was either donated or supplied at a big discount.

During the 2008 season Bott has prepared all of the decals for the race bikes using its in-house graphics facility in Ashby. In addition to its own logos, which are applied in a prominent position on the bikes, Bott can create decals using digital images of other sponsors’ logos. This is the same process the company uses to prepare and apply the all-round body wraps for its business customers’ fleet vehicles. The company has recently applied some additional graphics to the team van to illustrate some of its own workshop and storage products.

“The bikes look absolutely fantastic,” says John Davies. “The graphics not only look great but also help us sell additional space on the bike to other potential sponsors.”

Bott also offers practical advice that helps the team in other ways. For example, with its excellent national and local contacts in the automotive and engineering industry the company can often help the team to identify or source some specialist equipment or materials for use for preparing the bikes.

In return for its sponsorship Bott enjoys association with one of the most successful classic racing teams around. The company can take employees and customers to any of the events where the Hondas are racing to see the bikes in action, meet the riders and discuss all the ins and outs of the day with John Davies. One of the attractions of this type of racing for competitors and spectators is that everyone can get close to the action and feel as though they are part of the event.

“We have been pleased to support to John and his team, the majority of whom are locally based enthusiasts,” says Stephen Turner, Special Vehicles Operations Director at Bott. “As the team has enjoyed more and more success many Bott employees have taken a keen interest in its progress with several attending race meetings. It is very uplifting to see so many people offering encouragement and support and I am delighted that the team has made such good use of our workbenches and storage systems.”

The team has participated in a number of races during 2008 including the Manx TT, held every August on the famous road circuit around the Isle of Man. The team won the national championship series organised by the Classic Racing Motorcycle Club in the 350cc and 500cc classifications.

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PRESS INFORMATION (TOP)

Issue Date: 8 September 2008
Ref: BOT08/14

BOTT AND PHVC SUPPLY SOUND ADVICE

The interior of the new Sound Advice vehicles includes all of the equipment needed to carry out on-site health checks. Starting with the basic long wheelbase Iveco box van Bott installed a range of in-vehicle specialist equipment to the specification provided by Sound Advice.

(Caption Left: The interior of the new Sound Advice vehicles includes all of the equipment needed to carry out on-site health checks.)

(Caption Right: Starting with the basic long wheelbase Iveco box van Bott installed a range of in-vehicle specialist equipment to the specification provided by Sound Advice.)

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Two new mobile medical vehicles for Cheshire-based health and safety specialist Sound Advice Safety & Health Limited have been prepared by vehicle enhancement specialist Bott in conjunction with leasing company PHVC Limited. The new vehicles have been equipped with in-vehicle storage, specialist medical equipment and a sound-proof booth and will visit Sound Advice’s customers throughout the UK to provide employee health checks in a private setting and without the need to allocate special rooms on site.

“We wanted the new vehicles to present a professional image and allow us to complete the health checks in the best possible way for our customers,” says Joan Blease, Managing Director of Sound Advice Safety & Health Limited. “Working with specialist suppliers such as Bott and PHVC was the most sensible route to go. The new vehicles are absolutely fantastic and we are really pleased with the specification.”

Sound Advice Safety & Health Limited was established in 1990 and provides a comprehensive on site range of safety and health related services to industry. By visiting its customers’ premises the company ensures that employee downtime is kept to a minimum and there is no need to find a “quiet room” for the health checks to take place. The use of mobile medical vehicles ensures that the company can provide a private and confidential occupational health support service in line with HSE guidance. The company had previously purchased a chassis and managed its own conversions but when it needed to replace the existing units it recognised the potential benefits of working with a specialist vehicle enhancer such as Bott. Public sector leasing specialist PHVC arranged the supply and financing of the vehicles and managed the overall process.

“We looked for an alternative to purchasing a complete panel van and kitting it out ourselves,” says Joan Blease. “Bott has the experience and facilities to enhance the vehicles to our precise specification using their own in-vehicle storage products as well as specialist equipment supplied by us.”

Starting with the basic long wheelbase Iveco box van Bott installed a range of in-vehicle specialist equipment to the specification provided by Sound Advice. This included lockers and storage equipment for small items as well as a self-contained sound-proof booth that is used for carrying out hearing tests. Bott also ensured the correct ancillary services such as auxiliary power and hand-washing facilities were available inside the vehicle and applied exterior graphics using its in-house design and print team working to Sound Advice’s specification.

“We have been working closely with Bott over recent years to build a relationship that allows us to offer a one-stop-shop solution to our public sector customers whether they need one or a hundred new vehicles,” says Kevin Martin, National Key Account Manager at PHVC. “Working with Bott we take the hassle away from the customer.”

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PRESS INFORMATION (TOP)

Issue Date: 17 July 2008
Ref: BOT08/13

NEW VEHICLES BUT SAME BOTT RACKING FOR TK CURTAIN REPAIRS

When TK Curtain Repairs replaced its old vans with the latest Mercedes Sprinters model earlier this year it simply transferred its existing in-vehicle storage and racking from Bott to the new vans. The company has used the same in-vehicle equipment for 11 years and these are the third generation of vehicles the company has operated during that time.

(Caption: Two new Mercedes Sprinters prepared for TK Curtain Repairs by Bott)

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When TK Curtain Repairs replaced its old vans with the latest Mercedes Sprinters model earlier this year it simply transferred its existing in-vehicle storage and racking from Bott to the new vans. The company has used the same in-vehicle equipment for 11 years and these are the third generation of vehicles the company has operated during that time.

“It’s unbelievable how it’s lasted all these years,” says Stuart Taylor, owner of TK Curtain Repairs. “We simply took it out of the old vans and put it in the new ones.”

TK Curtain Repairs offers a mobile on-site fitting and repair service for commercial vehicle trailer curtains. The company was founded in the 1980s and now serves customers within a 100 mile radius of its base in Leicestershire using two vans. It first installed in-vehicle storage equipment 11 years ago and transferred the original items into replacement vehicles four or five years ago. The careful design and installation of in-vehicle storage and workshop equipment helps to ensure tools and other items are stored neatly, safely and securely when the vehicle is in motion but are readily available when needed.

When TK Curtain Repairs ordered two of the new Mercedes 518 vehicles earlier this year it decided to transfer the existing storage and racking from the old vans yet again. Bott completed basic new vehicle preparation tasks, applied vehicle wrap graphics using the in-house design and print workshop at its facility in Ashby and ensured the vehicles were delivered on time at the beginning of April. TK Curtain Repairs then completed the transfer of the storage and racking equipment to ensure its vehicles were off the road for the minimum amount of time.

“We did the work ourselves because we could not afford to have vehicles off the road,” says Stuart Taylor. “It was easy to do and I simply marked out the positions inside the vehicle, drilled the appropriate holes and bolted the equipment into place.”

The wide range of standard Bott modular products includes shelving, drawer stacks, service cases, lockers, bulkheads, worktops and accessories that can be installed in any of the leading commercial vehicle models. All units are manufactured using heavy-duty steel and aluminium to ensure they are robust and durable to protect stored items in the most arduous applications. The range also includes portable storage boxes and service cases so that parts and tools can be transferred easily from the vehicle to the workplace.

“With Bott’s help we achieved what we wanted to do on time by the beginning of April,” says Stuart Taylor.

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PRESS INFORMATION (TOP)

Issue Date: 30 June 2008
Ref: BOT08/11

LOUGHBOROUGH FORKLIFTS CHOOSES BOTT AGAIN

Dean James, Loughborough Forklifts, with Gemma Yeomans, Internal Sales Engineer at Bott.

(Caption: Dean James, Loughborough Forklifts, with Gemma Yeomans, Internal Sales Engineer at Bott.)

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When Loughborough Forklifts needed to buy another van for its growing business it had no hesitation in once again handing the important task of preparation and installation of in-vehicle racking, storage and other equipment to commercial vehicle enhancement specialist Bott. The company has always asked Bott to enhance its new vehicles because it recognises the benefit of working with a specialist who understands how to get the best possible efficiency and use from the available space.

“When we set up the business we wanted something to set us apart from other operations,” says Dean James, founder and managing director of Loughborough Forklifts. “Image plays a part of this. If the van is set up correctly you are ready to go forward and be successful. Bott storage and racking helps with the day-to-day running of the business and working from the vans.”

Loughborough Forklifts is an independent lift truck company that was established in 2003 to sell, service and hire mechanical handling equipment to customers throughout the midlands. Bott originally enhanced the company’s first van by installing in-vehicle racking and storage equipment to allow the safe and efficient transportation of spares, tools and equipment needed to service and repair lift trucks. Prior to making his original choice Dean James had some experience of racking and storage systems from other companies but according to him these were not as reliable or durable as the equipment designed, manufactured and installed by Bott. The original vehicle was replaced after three years but the Bott equipment proved to be resilient enough to be used in its replacement. Bott simply took it out of the old van, carried out some basic refurbishment work and installed it in the new vehicle.

“The Bott equipment is very durable and we are still using the racking from first vehicle in its replacement and, even though it is five years old, it has stood the test of time admirably,” says Dean James. “We aim to change our vans every three years but the racking is transferable. The initial outlay may be slightly higher but there is no reason why the racking cannot last which spreads the cost out very effectively.”

A second van purchased in 2006 was also enhanced by Bott and the latest vehicle brings the total fleet to three. For the new vehicle Bott recommended a configuration of racking and storage equipment designed to make the best possible use of the available space inside the vehicle. In addition to the storage equipment the company installed a slide-out vice that allows service engineers to work on maintenance tasks at the rear of the vehicle on sites that often do not have their own workshop facilities. This enables Loughborough Forklifts to provide an enhanced service and complete calls more quickly.

Bott also supplied and installed fire extinguishers and first aid kits to ensure the vehicles comply with the latest health and safety rules and regulations. All of the work was completed at Bott’s enhancement facility in Ashby. The two companies worked together to agree a schedule required by Loughborough Forklifts to minimise lost working time.

“With this order the time taken from the phone call to get a quote and placing the order was one week,” says Dean James. “It took just four weeks from the order to getting the kit fitted and the work was completed in just one day. This time they were fantastic.”

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PRESS INFORMATION (TOP)

Issue Date: 30 May 2008
Ref: BOT08/10

BOTT WINS BUSINESS AWARD FOR INNOVATION

Kevin Woodward (left), Managing Director of Bott, receives the Enterprise Through Innovation Award.

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Commercial vehicle enhancement specialist Bott has won the prestigious Enterprise Through Innovation category at the Leicestershire Business Awards 2008. The company, which has its main vehicle enhancement facility at Ashby in the county, was also runner up for overall Business of the Year. The Enterprise Through Innovation prize was awarded in recognition of the growth in turnover and profits that Bott has achieved at Ashby. The company has invested a significant amount at the site to develop a full range of facilities that enable it to offer a complete in-vehicle storage and enhancement service that covers every aspect of commercial vehicle sourcing, preparation and delivery.

“This award symbolises the pride and passion that all of us feel for our business and the service we provide to our customers,” says Kevin Woodward, Managing Director of Bott. “I am immensely proud of the growth we have achieved and the employment opportunities we have created.”

Bott had a turnover of £21 million during 2007 and counts BT Fleet, Caterpillar and Coca Cola among its impressive list of clients. The company employs 140 staff at its Ashby operation and a further 160 at its manufacturing plant in Cornwall.

The annual Leicestershire Business Awards were presented at a special event held at Leicester’s De Montfort Hall on Friday 18 April.

"When Bott was announced as category winner I was stunned and delighted,” says Kevin Woodhead. “To reach the Business of the Year shortlist was absolutely incredible.”

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PRESS INFORMATION (TOP)

Issue Date: 15 May 2008
Ref: BOT08/09

BOTT WINS ITM AWARD AGAIN

Bott has been named “In Vehicle Storage Solutions Company 2008” by the Institute of Transport Management. This is the second year in a row that the company has won this prestigious award from one of the motor industry’s leading independent organisations. According to the ITM this is a true indicator of the continuing progress and impact the company is making on the CV market.

“Bott has emerged as one of the UK’s leading companies in the arena of in-vehicle storage equipment, especially for light commercial vehicles, handling manufacture and supply, and enjoying a fine reputation for high product quality and excellent service,” says Patrick Sheedy, Media & PR Director for the Institute of Transport Management. “The ITM is pleased to recognise a truly progressive, positive company like Bott.”

Before announcing the winners of the award the ITM identified a number of areas on which to judge each company's performance. These included range of services, growth and achievement, third party capture, service delivery, and IT and Innovation. Having assessed Bott on each of these the award committee recognised that an outstanding in-vehicle enhancement service separates the company from its competitors. Bott offers complete end-to-end commercial vehicle enhancement solutions that enable small and large fleet operators to achieve maximum performance, value for money and return on investment. Commercial vehicles enhanced by Bott help operators to optimise in-vehicle amenities for productive, efficient and safe working while complying with their health and safety and duty of care obligations.

“It is apparent from our research that the company has worked hard to achieve what it has set out to do and as such is a deserving recipient of this accolade for the second occasion,” says Patrick Sheedy.

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PRESS INFORMATION (TOP)

Issue Date: 23 April 2008
Ref: BOT08/08

INFINIS RENEWS VEHICLE FLEET WITH BOTT ENHANCEMENT DIVISION

Renewable energy provider Infinis Limited has taken delivery of 14 new Vauxhall Vivaro vans, prepared and enhanced by Bott, for use by the Engine Technicians who maintain its network of landfill gas power stations. Renewable energy provider Infinis Limited has taken delivery of 14 new Vauxhall Vivaro vans, prepared and enhanced by Bott, for use by the Engine Technicians who maintain its network of landfill gas power stations. Renewable energy provider Infinis Limited has taken delivery of 14 new Vauxhall Vivaro vans, prepared and enhanced by Bott, for use by the Engine Technicians who maintain its network of landfill gas power stations.

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Renewable energy provider Infinis Limited has taken delivery of 14 new Vauxhall Vivaro vans, prepared and enhanced by Bott, for use by the Engine Technicians who maintain its network of landfill gas power stations. Working to a specification agreed with Infinis, Bott managed the overall enhancement process and prepared the vans to create highly versatile and efficient workspaces for the Infinis engineers. A further 20 vans with the same overall specification will be delivered later in 2008.

“Vehicles are very important to the business,” says Wayne Henderson, Director of Strategy at Infinis. “We have a mobile field force and they need to go when and where they are needed. The vehicles prepared by Bott help us to do this.”

Infinis is the UK’s largest independent renewable energy business, operating 80 power stations generating electricity from gases emitted from landfill sites. Installed capacity is currently around 260 megawatts and the company is developing a number of new renewable energy streams to grow its business. Engineers from Infinis need to visit power stations regularly to maintain and service the generating equipment. Bott had prepared the previous van fleet in 2005 and when these were scheduled for renewal in 2008 Infinis recognised the overall specification had not been reviewed for some time.

“The old vehicles had a relatively simple specification that included basic storage equipment,” says Chris Moore, Fleet Coordinator at Infinis. “The business has evolved rapidly over the past three years and we were now looking to maximise the efficiency and use of the vans.”

Infinis wanted a configuration that met current legislation, supported best practice and allowed engineers to move and store parts, tools and equipment including some relatively large items such as generator spares. The lead time on the Vauxhall Vivaro vans selected by Infinis provided a window to agree the overall specification. Chris Moore worked with regional engineering managers to identify the new requirement for a standardised configuration across the fleet. A team then visited Bott to discuss and agree a final specification for the vehicles.

Bott suggested using in-vehicle storage equipment from its lightweight Vario line to help to minimise overall vehicle weights and running costs. The use of overhead storage units with pull-down compartments provided additional storage capacity to make better use of the available space than the previous vehicles. Items can be held safely and securely when the vehicle is moving and found quickly when required. Larger items can be secured inside the vehicle for safe transportation.

Other in-vehicle facilities suggested by Bott included lighting and a fully-extendable vice that allows engineers to work on maintenance tasks more easily at locations that generally do not have workshops. Wash basins, fire extinguishers and other ancillary items were included to help create self-contained mobile workshops for the engineers.

“The vice was an excellent idea and an important addition that allows engineers to complete work on site more easily,” says Chris Moore. “The hand wash eradicated any issues with health and safety provision.”

Bott provided a complete end-to-end project management service to provide Infinis with a single point of contact. This removed the need for Infinis to co-ordinate with over ten different participants in the supply chain. Bott managed vehicle logistics by working with the manufacturer and the dealer. Vehicles were delivered direct from the manufacturer to the Bott facility where PDI checks were completed before the enhancement work commenced. In addition to fitting the equipment and ancillary services defined in the specification Bott also fitted tracking devices used by Infinis for vehicle security and service scheduling. Using its own in-house facilities the company also prepared and applied full body wrap graphics using logos and technical specification provided by the marketing team at Infinis. Bott also supplies the lightweight and streamlined KRS roof rack system. This has been made available to any Infinis engineer who requires one for their vehicle and has been added to the vehicle specification as an optional item.

Once the vehicles were ready Bott liaised with the dealer to arrange delivery to various Infinis sites. This allowed all of the parties involved to minimise vehicle movements and mileage to streamline the overall supply chain process.

“It’s handy to have all the work done in the same place,” says Chris Moore. “It takes a lot of hassle out of the chain to know the vehicle, livery and tracking are being done by one supplier. It was a good working process that went very smoothly.”

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PRESS INFORMATION (TOP)

Issue Date: 11 March 2008
Ref: BOT08/04

BOTT SELECTED BY SELECTA

The entire fleet of 217 new Ford Transits chosen by vending services company Selecta to support its operations in the UK and Ireland is being prepared by vehicle enhancement specialist Bott. The entire fleet of 217 new Ford Transits chosen by vending services company Selecta to support its operations in the UK and Ireland is being prepared by vehicle enhancement specialist Bott. The entire fleet of 217 new Ford Transits chosen by vending services company Selecta to support its operations in the UK and Ireland is being prepared by vehicle enhancement specialist Bott.

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The entire fleet of 217 new Ford Transits chosen by vending services company Selecta to support its operations in the UK and Ireland is being prepared by vehicle enhancement specialist Bott. The contract includes installation of in-vehicle equipment and on-board ancillaries, and management of supply logistics to ensure deliveries meet Selecta’s schedules.

“All items not in the standard vehicle specification were installed by Bott,” says Neil Taylor, Selecta’s General Manager for Product Logistics for UK & Ireland. “We approached a number of suppliers but none was as big, responsive and professional as Bott.”

Selecta, recently acquired by Alliance Capital Partners, is the largest vending services company in Europe. In the UK Selecta serves over one million items to consumers every day from equipment installed in premises including offices, factories, schools and railway stations. The company operates over 20,000 machines and services a similar number of additional items for independent customers.

The service vehicles are used by the company’s agents and “merchandisers” who visit customer sites to refill machines and carry out maintenance tasks. For a variety of reasons the old fleet comprised many vehicle models that had been fitted with a range of non-standard equipment by different independent suppliers.

“The company has grown and the old ‘one man band’ approach was not enough,” says Neil Taylor. “For the new fleet we had complete freedom to choose and specify what we wanted.”

Working with its leasing company Selecta chose to standardise on the 2.4 litre diesel Ford Transit. Each vehicle is designed to carry enough stock so that it only needs to visit one of the company’s depots once a week which means safety and security are major considerations. In addition to this important role the vehicles are branded to promote Selecta’s corporate image.

“We looked at making the basic vehicle more operator friendly for users with the right solution to include racking and security,” says Neil Taylor.

The company originally approached Bott after some of its operators in Scotland decided they wanted to improve their old vehicles. They asked Bott’s depot in Cumbernauld to propose some simple enhancements which formed the basis of the new fleet specification after being picked up by Selecta’s head office team. Some of the work on the new fleet has been undertaken in Cumbernauld with the bulk completed at Bott’s main facility in Ashby.

Bott takes the basic vehicle and installs a range of in-vehicle storage equipment and ancillary services to create an environment matched to Selecta’s unique requirement. This covers everything from new flooring, an additional bulkhead, lockable shelving and cabinets to secure and store consumables as well as a range of other safety and security measures including a Thatcham-compliant alarm/immobiliser, vehicle tracker, speed limiter and slam locks on the rear doors to prevent unauthorised access.

Attention to detail was important. For example, Bott fitted a number of signs such as those now required following changes in laws affecting smoking and use of mobile phones. This involved taking into account different specifications which apply in England and Scotland. Bott also applied high visibility dots on the wing mirrors so that other drivers are more likely to see them protruding when the vehicles were coming towards them on narrow roads. This is expected to reduce the amount of accidental damage significantly with a consequent saving in repair bills. Finally, Bott applied exterior graphics supplied by Selecta’s design agency but in future the plan is to use its own in-house facilities to design, print and apply the distinctive fully body wraps.

Bott co-ordinated vehicle supply logistics with Ford and leasing company Lex to ensure that deliveries were made on schedule. The company also managed the return of Selecta’s old vehicles by arranging collection and carrying out checks and valeting before delivering them to the original leasing company.

“The logistics were quite complicated with four companies involved but Bott has done an excellent job,” says Neil Taylor. “We have a good working relationship and they are very professional.”

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PRESS INFORMATION (TOP)

Issue Date: 29 February 2008
Ref: BOT08/03

PRIDE, PASSION, PEOPLE: BOTT AT CV SHOW 2008

Bott (Stand 10-030 & 11-218) introduces Pride, Passion and People at CV Show to highlight how its complete end-to-end commercial vehicle enhancement solutions enable small and large fleet operators to achieve maximum performance, value for money and return on investment. Commercial vehicles enhanced by Bott help operators to optimise in-vehicle amenities for productive, efficient and safe working while complying with their health and safety and duty of care obligations.

A comprehensive range of capabilities enables Bott to manage the total commercial vehicle lifecycle for customers. Consulting and design services from Bott help customers to define and achieve the best possible solution to their requirements and includes advice and information about the latest legislation and duty of care issues. The company then sources the most appropriate equipment, including its own in-vehicle storage systems, from leading suppliers and installs them in its dedicated facilities to enhance the basic vehicle. It manages all supply chain issues by liaising with vehicle and equipment manufacturers, dealers and distributors, finance houses and transport companies to ensure timely and efficient deliveries. Dedicated account managers and business and technical specialists provide after sales support to help customers address their ongoing requirements. When vehicles reach the end of their scheduled lifetime Bott manages returns and, in many cases, recycles and refurbishes existing in-vehicle storage equipment to deliver savings of up to 45 per cent on replacements.

Bott’s manufacturing and enhancement facilities work to the ISO9001 manufacturing and ISO14001 environmental standards to provide customers with complete peace of mind that their vehicles are prepared to the highest quality levels.

The company’s display at CV Show includes vehicles fitted with Bott’s in-vehicle enhancement solutions. Employees featured in Bott’s current Pride, Passion, People advertising campaign will be present on stand.

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PRESS INFORMATION (TOP)

Issue Date: 13 February 2008
Ref: BOT08/02

STONE HARDY SPRINTERS BETTER WITH BOTT

Twenty three new support vehicles operated by Stone Hardy, which provides nationwide service and repair of tail-lifts and shutters for commercial and passenger vehicles, have been prepared by vehicle enhancement specialist Bott. Twenty three new support vehicles operated by Stone Hardy, which provides nationwide service and repair of tail-lifts and shutters for commercial and passenger vehicles, have been prepared by vehicle enhancement specialist Bott.

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Twenty three new support vehicles operated by Stone Hardy, which provides nationwide service and repair of tail-lifts and shutters for commercial and passenger vehicles, have been prepared by vehicle enhancement specialist Bott. The new vehicles, medium wheelbase Mercedes Sprinters, have been equipped with a range of in-vehicle storage, tools and related equipment to create high performance mobile workshops that will visit Stone Hardy’s customers throughout the UK. The contract extends a relationship between Stone Hardy and Bott that started in the mid-1990s.

“We have changed over the years and Bott has changed with us,” says Paul Clark, Managing Director at Stone Hardy. “They have always been flexible to what we want and come up with good solutions to our requirements.”

The Mercedes Sprinter vans were selected by Stone Hardy as scheduled replacements for part of a 65 vehicle fleet that, with its network of seven sales and service centres, enables the company to provide 24/7 customer support. Working to Stone Hardy’s brief, Bott agreed a specification that included in-vehicle storage from its Normline range. This enables tools and spare parts to be stored safely, efficiently and securely when the vehicles are moving. The specification also included installation of on-board 24V power, facilities for gas and electric welding, retractable vice, and other tools and equipment to create highly efficient mobile workshops. Bott also installed specialist ladders chosen by Stone Hardy to allow engineers to work safely at height.

Some of the Normline storage equipment from the decommissioned vehicles was refurbished by Bott and reinstalled in the new vehicles. The durable all-steel construction of the Normline modules ensures that initial investment can often be extended over the life of a second vehicle. The company also prepared and applied full body graphics working to Stone Hardy’s design brief.

The work was completed at Bott’s dedicated vehicle enhancement facility in Ashby. The company co-ordinated vehicle supply logistics with leasing company Lex to ensure prompt delivery to the customer.

“We are great believers in working with loyal suppliers,” says Paul Clark. “There are other companies supplying this equipment, however Bott fulfils our requirements so why change?”

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PRESS INFORMATION (TOP)

Issue Date: 10 January 2008
Ref: BOT08/01

BOTT MODULO: SMALL VAN STORAGE ENHANCED

The new Bott Modulo range is designed to enhance small vans or small box vans to provide drivers with highly efficient storage that helps them make maximum productive use of the available space. The new Bott Modulo range is designed to enhance small vans or small box vans to provide drivers with highly efficient storage that helps them make maximum productive use of the available space.

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The new Bott Modulo range is designed to enhance small vans or small box vans to provide drivers with highly efficient storage that helps them make maximum productive use of the available space. Bott has created a number of standard packages for the leading small van models in the current ranges of all major manufacturers. These can be delivered in seven working days to customers for self assembly and fitting, or can be installed by Bott, to provide highly economical vehicle enhancements to the same high quality standards as Bott’s existing product lines. The range is likely to be popular with small and independent traders who want to match the safety, efficiency and professional image of their larger counterparts at an affordable price.

The standard Bott Modulo packages range from a basic starter package for the light user up to an advanced package, all competitively priced to suit all budgets for all leading small van models from major manufacturers. Depending on the choice, each package comprises in-vehicle equipment including storage shelves, tilt bins, plastic service cases, tool box with secure mounting tray, perforated panel complete with tool clips, metal locker, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, phenol floor covering and hi visibility interior door panels. Optional extras include interior lights, roof rack with plastic tube, external livery, roof beacon, and rear window laminate film blanking. Items are installed on frames mounted on either side and at the front of the load space. The standard configurations are designed to leave a generous clear floor space for carrying larger items and loads.

All Bott Modulo products are available with flat-pack delivery direct to the customer within seven working days of the order. The equipment is easy to install and requires no or minimal drilling to the existing chassis. This promotes simplicity and allows busy independent businesses and self employed people to complete vehicle enhancement in their own time. The kits also help protect the residual value of the vehicle for cost-conscious owner-operators. All equipment is supplied with full assembly and installation instructions. For customers who prefer to have their vehicles enhanced by a specialist, or who require non-standard configurations, Bott offers a complete range of services at its enhancement centres in Ashby, Cumbernauld and Bude.

All steel construction for the framework, shelves and toolbox holders ensures strength, robustness and reliability. The new range has been crash tested by Bott at MIRA to ensure that it complies with the stringent EU ECE/R17 standard. The results proved that the integrity of the installation exceeded the required standard.

The careful design and installation of in-vehicle storage equipment helps ensure tools and other items are stored neatly, safely and securely when the vehicle is in motion but are readily available when needed. This promotes productivity because less time is spent locating items and reduces costly damage to tools and equipment during transit. It also helps users comply with health and safety regulations and guidelines for the stowage and transportation of equipment when working from a vehicle.

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BACKGROUND INFORMATION (TOP)

Bott Ltd is the UK’s leading manufacturer and installer of in-vehicle storage equipment. The ever popular second generation Normline storage system including shelving units, drawer service case units and lockers is available ex-stock. Other accessories can be supplied including bulkheads, floors and linings and graphics designed and produced by the company’s in-house department.

The company employs 300 people in the UK and provides extensive fleet installation, conversion and preparation services at its enhancement centres in the South West, Midlands and Scotland. Products are manufactured in an advanced fabrication facility in Cornwall where the company is certified to the internationally recognised ISO9001 quality and ISO14001 environmental standards. Bott has operated in the UK for more than 30 years and is part of the German-owned international Bott Group which has further manufacturing facilities in Germany and Hungary.

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For further press information, please contact (TOP):

Mike Graham
Marketing Assistant
Bott Limited
T: 01530 410600
W: www.bottltd.co.uk 

Keith Wootton
Public Relations Consultant
T: 01327 830675
bott@keithwootton.co.uk

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Keith Wootton - Public Relations Consultant
7 Church Lane, Cold Higham, Towcester, Northamptonshire NN12 8LS
Tel: 01327 830675 - Fax: 0871 750 1406 - Mob: 07778 315966
Email: pr@keithwootton.co.uk - Web: www.keithwootton.co.uk