Ryder is supplying nine Mercedes-Benz vans and two DAF trucks to Molan, supporting the continued growth of the roofing products specialist.

Based in Lincolnshire, Molan began trading in 1993 and has since grown to become a market leader in the supply of multiwall polycarbonate and associated plastic sheet products.

The new Mercedes Sprinter delivery, which replaces an Iveco fleet, comprises seven 3.5-tonne box vans, one long-bodied 3.5-tonne dropside, plus a 5-tonne dropside downplated to 3.5-tonne.

Additionally, Ryder is providing Molan with two DAF curtainsided trucks, one 7.5-tonne and the other 12-tonne. Ryder is the sole supplier of contract hire vehicles to Molan with a 21-strong van and rigid fleet.

Wayne Lawson, operations director at Molan, said: "The Mercedes Sprinters have replaced our Iveco fleet which had reached the end of its operational life. The vans, along with the two new DAF curtainsiders Ryder is supplying, provide substantially, lower operating costs, and the reliability we require to ensure our delivery schedules are maintained. Ryder provides us with fixed operating costs, which means our transportation costs stay in budget.

"The upgraded fleet has also improved the service we are able to provide to our nationwide customers in the building, construction, and roofing industries. Versatility has been increased through Ryder’s recommendation that one of the vans should be fitted with extended body length, enabling larger and longer panels to be transported efficiently."

John Murray, sales and marketing director at Ryder, said: "Our goal is to become our customers’ preferred and most trusted fleet service partner, so we are very pleased to be providing Molan with such effective cost, operational, and reliability benefits.

"Molan is one of a large number of businesses that has turned away from owning vehicles and is instead enjoying the advantages that contract hire can provide. We look forward to a long and enjoyable strategic partnership with Molan in the years ahead."