Wren Kitchens has struck a new partnership with Mercedes-Benz Trucks and Rygor Commercials.

The business has taken delivery of 12 new vehicles, with a further 31 set to be delivered before the end of summer.

A pair of Actros tractor units and 10 fully air-suspended Antos 18-tonners with demountable box bodies are already in service.

They will be joined by 10 Fuso Canters and 21 more 18-tonne Antos.

“We undertook an evaluation process, trialled various demonstrators and met everyone we wanted to speak to. The candidates for our business were gradually whittled down and we ended up with Mercedes-Benz and Rygor Commercials.

“Ultimately, it was Mercedes-Benz Trucks’ leadership in the field of safety that really swung it for us. Nothing is more important to Wren Kitchens than the protection of our employees and, indeed, of other vulnerable road users. We were particularly impressed, therefore, with the Active Brake Assist 4 system’s ability to intervene and prevent an accident in the event that a pedestrian steps in front of the truck,” said Lee Holmes, vice-president of transport at Wren Kitchens.

The company has a fleet of 152 vehicles, mainly from French and Japenese brands. As part of its expansion, Holmes said it was time to “review existing arrangements”.

While the tractors came as standard with Mercedes-Benz Safety Packs, Wren Kitchens ticked the options box to specify these on its 18-tonne rigids as well. The Safety Pack comprises Active Brake Assist 4 emergency braking technology with pioneering pedestrian recognition capability, as well as the Proximity Control Assist system and a driver’s airbag.