Tool distributor Dormole has sealed a long-term sole supply partnership with JCT600 Vehicle Leasing Solutions (VLS) on the back of a significant transformation of its fleet.

Since first partnering in 2021, Dormole’s transition from outright vehicle purchase to leasing has proved a major success. A nine-month trial, no-obligation trial quickly demonstrated the value of outsourcing. Through hands-on support that has gone above the initial brief, the partnership has moved into a full sole supply agreement, with JCT600 VLS now managing and managing Dormole’s 143-strong company car, comprising a mix of essential business and perk vehicles.

JCT600 VLS has transformed Dormole’s fleet in line with its sustainability ambitions with 80% of the company’s car fleet now comprising battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). That’s a dramatic shift from the position at the outset of the relationship. The introduction of a whole-life cost (WLC) policy structure proved that Dormole could bring lower-emission vehicles onto its choice list without increasing overall fleet spend.

Throughout the partnership, JCT600 VLS has sought new ways to reduce costs and improve operational efficiency. These include proactive mileage monitoring and contract adjustments, a formal lease extension programme to lower per-vehicle costs on suitable low-mileage vehicles, and an end-of-contract returns process that consistently outperforms industry benchmarks on damage charges.

Maintenance spend, which was previously managed inconsistently on a branch-by-branch basis, has also been centralised under JCT600 VLS, bringing greater control and transparency across the business.

Beyond funding, JCT600 VLS has continuously expanded its support to match Dormole’s evolving needs. This includes daily rental, fleet administration, a no-quibble tyre solution, policy and choice list management, and downtime management.

George Strong, operations director at Dormole, said: “JCT600 VLS has been a trusted partner from day one, consistently adapting to our fleet requirements and delivering strong results. Their support has been integral to our transition towards a greener fleet, while keeping cost management firmly at the forefront. We are pleased to formalise this relationship through a new sole supply agreement as we move to a new era in our partnership.”

As part of the renewed partnership, JCT600 VLS will also implement its Origo driver portal, streamlining the vehicle ordering and management journey for both Dormole’s fleet managers and its drivers.

Ben Creswick, managing director at JCT600 VLS, said: “When we first started working with Dormole, leasing was a new concept for the business, and we’re incredibly proud of what we have built together over the past four years. Not only is Dormole’s car fleet now 80% electric with significant cost savings and a genuinely streamlined operation, but best of all, Dormole trusts us to keep delivering, year after year.

“In a challenging economic environment, our focus has always been on delivering tangible value for Dormole. We look forward to continuing to support Dormole’s growth and fleet ambitions for many years to come.”