W&H Leslie boosts fleet with high-spec DAF XG+

General haulier W&H Leslie (Aberdeen) has added a high-spec DAF XG+ 530 to its fleet in its first hire-purchase deal with Asset Alliance Group.

Based in Kintore, west of Aberdeen, the haulier’s trucks serve as a home away from home for its drivers as they undertake tramping work. DAF’s largest model has become a mainstay of the fleet, with a generous living space and creature comforts cited as key advantages.

Director Carole Mann said: “It’s our first deal with Asset Alliance Group and we’re very pleased with the truck. They sorted out the smart livery for us and were attentive throughout. We used them for finance too, which went very smoothly – all we really had to do was arrange for one of our drivers to collect it.”

The truck replaces an older asset and comes with a full manufacturer’s repair and maintenance (R&M) contract. Carole Mann ensures all new vehicles have R&M in place to mitigate the risk of a truck developing a significant and costly fault far from base.

“For us we have a simple monthly payment to make, and we don’t have to worry about recovery if a truck’s stranded south of the border,” she added.

“The dealer will cover that and get it back on the road, which leaves us to concentrate on the job at hand – ensuring customers’ goods get delivered.”

Moving ‘anything and everything’, the latest DAF will cover the breadth of the UK. It features full air suspension, alloy wheels, airhorns and a lightbar. Inside there is a premium sound system, electric relax bed, microwave, fridge and full leather interior. The truck will eventually be moved onto local work, supported by the mechanics in W&H Leslie’s workshop before eventual sale or trade-in.

The deal was facilitated by Asset Alliance Group sales manager John Scott.

In 2005, Alistair Henderson, alongside fellow directors Carole Mann and James Moir, acquired the assets of W & H Leslie Ltd and established W&H Leslie (Aberdeen). Today, the business operates a fleet of 30 vehicles, including rigid trucks, rigid Hiab vehicle, and articulated units. The company runs a mixed fleet of curtain-sided, flatbed, and chipliner trailers, and currently employs 35 people.