Taunton-based J&K Aquatics has netted another couple of prize specimens in the shape of two new Mercedes trucks.
The 18-tonne Axor 1833 and 12-tonne Atego 1224 arrived via the Exeter dealership of Mercedes-Benz dealer for the south- west, City West Commercials.
Both vehicles have sleeper cabs and are powered by low-emission BlueTec® Euro 5 engines. Their box bodies, which by Hills Bodyworks, of Exeter, are fitted with tuckaway tail-lifts.
J&K Aquatics runs an all-Mercedes fleet of 11 rigids – the line-up also comprises another two 18-tonners, four 12- tonners and three 7.5-tonners – as well as a pair of Sprinter vans.
All are on private registration plates and none is more than a year old – “Given the high mileages they cover we like to keep our vehicles up to date,” explains Managing Director Paul James
They are used to deliver J&K’s comprehensive range of aquariums, ponds and related products, as well as tropical and cold water fish, to retailers throughout the UK and Ireland.
James and his wife Judy founded J&K Aquatics in 1984. It is now a £10-million turnover business employing 73 people.
The firm trades from Bathpool, Taunton, but to meet increasing demand is planning a move to a new, £3-million purpose-built headquarters in North Petherton, Bridgwater, offering twice its current warehouse capacity.
“Business is good, and Mercedes-Benz continues to play an important part in the J&K success story,” confirms James. “We have been buying Mercedes trucks and vans since the mid and they have never let us down, while they’re also popular with our drivers.”
