JJ Foodservice adds 20 new Isuzu Grafters to fleet
National food and drink wholesaler JJ Foodservice has taken delivery of 20 new 3.5-tonne Isuzu N35.125 Grafters with automatic transmission, supporting the continued expansion of its nationwide delivery operations.
The latest order strengthens a relationship between JJ Foodservice and Isuzu Truck UK that stretches back three decades. The wholesaler was among Isuzu Truck UK’s first customers and now operates a 155-strong commercial vehicle fleet supplied entirely by Isuzu, including 7.5-tonne and 13.5-tonne models.
The new Grafters have been equipped with insulated box bodies supplied by Solomon Commercials. Each body incorporates ambient, chilled and frozen compartments, enabling JJ Foodservice to transport a wider range of products while maintaining the required temperature controls.
Kaan Hendekli, Chief Operating Officer at JJ Foodservice, says: “We continue to choose Isuzu because of the reliability and robust qualities of its vehicles, combined with the excellent aftersales support we receive, and of course, positive feedback from our drivers.
“As our operations have evolved, so has our relationship with the brand, with a shift away from the heavier models towards the Grafter, which has become an increasingly important part of our fleet. They are well suited to deliveries for our domestic customers, giving us the flexibility we need as the business continues to expand.”
Growing role for 3.5-tonne trucks
JJ Foodservice first introduced the 3.5-tonne Isuzu Grafter to its fleet in 2022 and has progressively increased its use as the number of domestic deliveries has grown.
The compact 3.5-tonne chassis is particularly suited to urban delivery work, giving the wholesaler greater flexibility when operating in built-up areas while helping it maintain the level of service expected by customers.
The latest vehicles will be maintained in-house by JJ Foodservice and are expected to remain in operation for at least 10 years. The planned service life reflects the company’s confidence in the durability and reliability of the Isuzu Grafter.
The vehicles are also covered by Isuzu Truck UK’s three-year unlimited mileage manufacturer warranty. The package includes 24/7 roadside assistance, access to the Isuzu Truck UK Customer CARE Team and support from the company’s nationwide dealer network.
Nationwide foodservice delivery operation
JJ Foodservice operates from 13 depots across the UK, supplying more than 100,000 foodservice and home customers. Its product range includes fresh, frozen, chilled and ambient food, making flexible temperature-controlled distribution an important part of its transport operation.
The move towards more 3.5-tonne vehicles reflects the changing requirements of the wholesaler’s delivery network, particularly as it expands its direct-to-home operation. For fleet operators working in urban environments, the Grafter’s compact dimensions, automatic transmission and multi-temperature body configuration provide a combination of manoeuvrability, driver usability and operational flexibility.
With the latest order taking the JJ Foodservice fleet to 155 vehicles, and the company continuing to favour Isuzu across its commercial vehicle operation, the long-standing partnership looks set to remain an important part of its transport strategy.
