Fergusons marks a century with new MAN TGX Flagship
The new centenary TGX 26.520, built on the MAN 6×2 chassis with the GX cab
Cramlington, Northumberland-based haulier Fergusons Transport Ltd is marking its 100th anniversary this year with the introduction of a new MAN TGX Flagship vehicle.
Fergusons Transport was founded in 1926 by Matthew Ferguson as a one‑man operation transporting goods between Blyth and Newcastle. Now led by third‑generation family member Alan Ferguson OBE, the business operates a fleet of 130 vehicles – 75 per cent of them MAN models – and a wide range of trailers incorporating curtain-siders, armoured curtain-siders, stepped-frame trailers, flatbeds and specialist units.
The centenary truck, a TGX 26.520 6×2 with the GX cab, carries a commemorative ‘100 Years on the Road’ livery to mark the milestone. The vehicle is powered by MAN’s D26 engine, delivering 520 hp and 2,400 Nm, paired with a 12‑speed MAN TipMatic automated transmission designed to optimise gear selection based on load and terrain.
Alongside the anniversary model, the company has also taken delivery of 10 new TGX 26.480 6×2 tractors, each equipped with the GX cab and the same 12.4‑litre D26 engine, rated at 480 hp.
Michael Arkle, transport director at Fergusons Transport Ltd, said: “100 years is a significant milestone in the company’s history, and something we are all incredibly proud of. To help us celebrate and mark this considerable achievement, we wanted a vehicle that would represent the company and stand out while on the road delivering our customers’ goods.”
He added: “Our centenary vehicle, as it is special, has a slight uplift in power and a few extra features for the driver, which I’m sure will be appreciated. On a daily basis, it will join the main fleet operating from our Washington depot traveling across the country delivering customer goods.”
Arkle said continued fleet investment remains central to the company’s strategy.
“It is essential that we provide our customers with an efficient, cost-effective, and reliable road transport solution and to ensure we fulfil this steadfast commitment, we are continually investing in and modernising our fleet.”
He noted that vehicles typically cover around 120,000 km per year and are replaced after nine years.
The MAN centenary truck and 1926 Bean truck
“This approach ensures that we operate the latest generation of vehicles and at the same time look after our drivers, providing them with a comfortable home from home environment and the latest levels of safety and driver assistance systems.”
All 11 new vehicles are supplied with a five‑year comprehensive warranty.
Stephen Maddison, MAN Truck & Bus sales executive, said: “Fergusons Transport Ltd has been a much-valued customer for 20 years now, and I’d like to thank Alan Ferguson (OBE), Michael Arkle and the wider team for their business. Having a close relationship means we have a firm understanding of the Fergusons operation and how our high level of service, across the board, adds value.
“The centenary vehicle is impressive, as are all the vehicles, and I am confident they will satisfy both Fergusons and their drivers for years to come. We look forward to continuing this partnership.”
While national haulage remains its core activity, Fergusons also provides warehousing, logistics, removals and self‑storage services. Its eight warehouses offer a combined 430,000 sq ft of space, with additional bonded warehousing and customs brokerage facilities totalling 150,000 sq ft.
The company also maintains a historic 1926 Bean truck, the model that launched the business. Built by Harper Sons & Bean, the 25 cwt chassis features a 13.9 hp engine and four‑speed gearbox.
The new vehicles were prepared and inspected by MAN Truck & Bus in Gateshead, which will also handle servicing. MAN’s UK dealer network provides extended‑hours support, and all vehicles are covered by the Mobile24 roadside assistance service, available across Europe year‑round.
