A BRADFORD-based international logistics company has invested millions of pounds in a new fleet of more than 50 top-of-the-range vehicles.

Advanced Supply Chain Group (ASCG), based on the Euroway Industrial Estate, has spent £5.7 million to bring in 56 new Mercedes-Benz Actro tractor units.

The major investment follows a strong first quarter for ASCG, which saw the company secure a number of new contracts, including with leading retailers such as BHS International, Urban Outfitters, and Decathlon.

The new vehicles, which are considered the ‘gold standard’ in long distance haulage vehicles, will provide drivers with more comfortable and relaxing driving conditions, as well as reducing annual CO2 production by three tonnes alongside improved performance.

ASCG has also worked with Hexagon Leasing to further improve the safety and driveability of each vehicle, including improved brake systems, lane assist and chassis modifications.

Each vehicle has also been fitted with an array of rear view, side, and forward facing cameras, to increase the driver’s view of the road and surroundings, to keep the lorry and other road users as safe as possible.

The company has also started the ‘King of the Road’ initiative for its drivers, with a black gloss unit boasting extras including a luxury bed and a fridge up for grabs for the driver who tops the rankings in customer service, driving style and fuel economy performance.

Glyn Rogan, chief financial officer at Advanced Supply Chain Group, said: “From an operational perspective, efficiency and reliability is always a key focus and maintaining a modern fleet is a central part of meeting our business goals.

“We do go above and beyond, particularly where our vehicles are concerned; the industry average for fleet renewal is every four to seven years – we’ve made this investment much sooner, just three years since we welcomed the last tranche of vehicles.

“We have an excellent safety record, and the spend is indicative of our commitment to providing clients with the very best service and delivering on our intelligent logistics promise.

“We’ve worked with Hexagon Leasing on our transport requirements for more than a decade; the flexibility they offer us means that we are able to respond to growth in our customer base and any new requirements swiftly and efficiently.

“We work with some of the most successful retailers in the UK and beyond, and are geared up to take on other new customers who are looking for the most reliable and intelligent logistics partner.”

Mark Fletcher, commercial director at Hexagon Leasing, added: “The new Mercedes fleet not only allows Advanced Supply Chain to maintain operational excellence and do justice to its customers’ brands, but is a real boon for its drivers, with the safest and most comfortable driving conditions. We’re looking forward to working with ASCG to ensure that the fleet continues to deliver the very best performance in the coming months and years.”