Irish operator Henderson Foodservice is progressing its fleet replacement scheme with a £1.9m investment in Renault Trucks.

As a result, 18 vehicles from the French manufacturer’s range will join the foods provider.

For example, the order will include four 26-tonne D Wide 6x2s.

In addition, Henderson will take delivery of 14 standard 18 tonne D 4x2s.

All of the trucks will have refrigerated box bodies and also be equipped with chill and frozen dual compartments.

Supplied by Diamond Trucks, the Renaults will also have tail lifts fitted.

Like many others in the sector, the operator is continuing it’s post-pandemic recovery.

Therefore the invesment in the fleet replacement scheme is seen as a big boost.

Gavin Hamill, logistics manager at Henderson Foodservice said the news was very positive in light of increasing sales.

Continuing, he explained higher delivery volumes were in response to consumer demands for products.

On average, the Henderson Foodservice fleet completes 7,500 drops a week.

Customers include the hospitality sector, but also schools and convenience stores.

In total, the vehicles cover over 90,000km a week.

“The first two Renault trucks have already gone on the road and they look great,” revealed Hamill.

“Both are wrapped in the bright blue livery of Northern Ireland’s biggest coffee brand, Barista Bar.”

However, the rest of the order, rolled out over the next few months, are Henderson Foodservice-branded.

Meanwhile, Hamill explained the excellent manoeuvrability was partly why the D model were chosen.

“Drivers also comment on the ergonomics, they like that all the controls are easy to find and easy to access.”

The D26 Wide 280s are powered by Renault Trucks’ 8-litre DTi engine.

Inside the cabs are spec’d for comfort, with air-suspended ‘Comfort’ driver’s seat and lumbar support.

Furthermore, for extra comfort, the seat backs and bases are heated.