DIRTY: Consumers influenced by fleet
Two-thirds of consumers claim the condition of a tradesman’s vehicle would influence their decision to use them, a Vanarama study has found.
Research by the leading van specialist discovered the state of a van is vital in making a good first impression and instil customer confidence.
Overall, 63% of respondents said the condition of a tradesman’s business vehicle was important in giving them confidence in their work.
More than half (51%) of respondents said they would worry the tradesman’s ability if they could not afford to drive a decent work vehicle.
Meanwhile, 39% said they would be concerned about their reliability.
For 49%, the age of a tradesman’s vehicle is also important, while 59% claim being able to see a company logo on a vehicle gives confidence.
Andy Alderson, Managing Director of Vanarama, said he believes it is the equivalent to wearing a smart shirt and tie when going for an office job interview.
“From both our own experience of using tradesmen, as well as hearing anecdotal feedback from our customers, we instinctively knew that a van in poor condition could create the wrong impression about a tradesman, potentially impacting the amount of work received, the price charged and ultimately their business reputation,” he said.
“Our recent research of consumer perceptions not only confirmed this but crystallised just how important a tradesman’s vehicle is in winning new customers.
“Of course, some businesses may be wary of replacing an older vehicle because of concerns about future income.
“But we believe this could be a false economy.
“At Vanarama, through the volume related discounts we can obtain, we make it very affordable for a tradesman to drive a new van.
“Leasing payments on a brand new van can very often be cheaper than buying an old van on hire purchase.
“Plus, the reduced running costs of a new van with a more economic engine and no previous wear and tear which means lower maintenance costs, means that it can make better financial sense than running a cheaper used van, particularly considering the impact an older van can have on future income, as highlighted by our research.”
The Vanarama research also underlined the importance of tradesmen being able to show evidence of certified technical skills.
A whopping 93% of respondents said this was important to give them confidence in the work to be undertaken.
Meanwhile, 70% said that how the tradesman was dressed when they visited their property was important.
Image courtesy of KOREPhotos, with thanks.