Trucking company set to grow African footprint

European trucking company DAF intends to challenge the status quo of current African market share and grow its footprint in the southern African region, said national sales director, Mark Gavin. He told FTW that the African market was looking for innovation and that he believed DAF trucks offered this. “They are low on fuel consumption and therefore cost-effective to run. In addition they offer a low costof- ownership and the trucks are designed for long-distance travel and bulk haulage,” noted Gavin. He added that these characteristics made the 6x4 truck tractors ideal for operating in the African mining and coal commodity sectors. He said that while the DAF trucks featured European efficiency, safety, comfort and reliability, the vehicles were modified to suit unique African conditions and challenges – such as the need for low cost-of-ownership and easy maintenance. To meet the objective of growing market share, Gavin plans to consolidate existing strengths in sales and aftersales service. “Babcock, as the sole importer and distributor of DAF trucks in the South African market, offers strong after-sales service, including driver training, which helps fleet owners get optimised operational and efficient performance out of their vehicles,” he said. Gavin said that Babcock was currently f lexible enough in the region to make a big difference. “However, we haven’t set hugely over-ambitious goals. Instead, we will focus on steady, sustainable growth within the region.” Babcock conducts truck sales and support through an extensive regional network, which is made up of Babcock-owned and independent dealerships, service centres and breakdown support points throughout the southern African region. The company also represents Paccar parts, guaranteeing parts availability and supply for DAF vehicles throughout the region. CAPTION Mark Gavin with one of the DAF 6x4 tractor trucks.