Family-owned business Toolbank has integrated plug-in hybrids and fully electric vehicles onto its choice list at no additional cost with the help of JCT600 VLS.

Analysis by JCT600 VLS revealed that Toolbank could integrate PHEVs and electric vehicles onto its choice list at no additional cost by moving to a WLC policy structure

Toolbank, a leading distributor of tools, runs a 160-strong car fleet and has historically purchased all its fleet vehicles, but wanted to look at ‘greener’ options and manage costs.

JCT600 VLS worked in partnership with the tool manufacturer and wholesaler to provide a comparison of purchase versus lease, taking into account the whole-life cost (WLC) of the vehicles. The analysis revealed that a WLC policy structure would offset the switch to EVs.

As leasing was a new area for Toolbank, JCT600 VLS offered the company a nine-month trial of its services with no obligation at the end of the trial. This included fleet management on a selection of its current vehicles as well as ordering some new vehicles that needed replacing.

Following a successful trial, Toolbank has now established a long-term partnership with JCT600 VLS for fully outsourced fleet management. JCT600 VLS was also able to help Toolbank centralise and control its maintenance budget, which had previously been managed at a branch-by-branch level. And the leasing and fleet management specialist worked with Toolbank to review all operational processes, provide consultation on a new company car policy/handbook, and develop bespoke reporting methods to meet the business’ requirements.

George Strong, group contract manager at Toolbank, said: “Like most businesses we wanted to reduce our carbon footprint and manage costs without comprising the quality of the company car for our employees. JCT600 VLS worked with us every step of the way, showing all scenarios and solutions available. And they put their money where their mouth was by offering a trial, which really impressed us and instilled trust. By fully outsourcing our fleet management to JCT600 VLS, we have been able to take better control of our budget, reduce costs, introduce a greener fleet and keep our employees happy. We also really liked that they are family-owned like us and offer that personable, family feel.”

The scheme has now launched, and JCT600 VLS is currently working with the first group of drivers to place their orders under the new policy.

Ben Creswick, managing director at the leasing provider said: “We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach and work with our customers to develop tailored solutions for their business requirements. This has been a perfect example of this in action. We are so confident in our services that we were happy commit time and resources to demonstrate what it’s like to work with us.”