Phil Ewbank, Managing Director, CCE, looks back at Commercial Contract Engineers’ anniversary year:

"A great deal has happened at CCE since we last published our newsletter at the beginning of 2007.

"Our year started with a 'bang' with the Winter Wonderland celebration – a tremendous event and a big thank you to our friends – our families, our staff and our customers, for their commitment and support.

"Once our heads had cleared, we were back to work with a renewed vigour, demonstrated by the fact that the second quarter of the financial year showed a record turnover in our company’s history.

"By Easter, plans were well underway on our 2007 Bodyshop Magazine Award nomination and submission, which led to CCE being shortlisted as a finalist in the 'Commercial Vehicle Bodyshop of the Year' category.

"Early spring saw further investment in equipment as we work towards PAS accreditation, the new quality/repair method endorsed by the British Standards Institute.

"Staff training continues to be high on our agenda, as we work towards launching the 'CCE Academy' and an increased emphasis on Senior Management Team Development.

"In June, CCE was able to announce its partnership with Nightfreight, to deliver a brand new livery/refurbishment programme to Jungeheirich, the leading Fork Lift manufacturers. This project alone is worth £150,000, and will be delivered over a nine month period.

"CCE joined the A&R Accident Solutions Network in September. This is an exciting time for all parties, as they launched the network after 12 months of planning, with DHL as the first client to sign!

"Great news from the year to date, giving us sound reasons to be optimistic about the future."

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"In 2008 we plan to raise our profile and promote our philosophy of delivering quality service and repairs to our customers and clients.

"CCE recognises that there are more cases of large and small fleets becoming increasingly dissatisfied by their existing suppliers, the insurers, brokers or accident management centres. We seek to work increasingly closely with fleets of all sizes who are reaping the double rewards of lower accident repair costs and reduced downtime.”

Having expanded an already impressive fleet, Phil continued: “This was the right decision, as we have become more focused on reducing both the total repair costs and controlling heavy recovery costs, both of which can play a significant part in the full repair cost of an accident damaged vehicle.

"The more sophisticated insurance brokers and insurance companies are aware of the escalating costs and are slowly beginning to see the benefits in developing a controlled recovery network with a set, agreed menu of costs and directing the vehicle towards a reputable, high profile, repairer.

"This approach will ensure total control from the moment the accident happens and will deliver on the bottom line in respect to average repair costs, and increase customer retention, a matter of concern to the leading insurers, striving to achieve value for money.

"In my opinion, markets follow trends - we have all experienced the total loss/big salvage figure quoted by some engineers. But here at CCE, we are in a position to offer an attractive alternative.

"We have proved on countless occasions that many vehicles ARE repairable and should be if that is what the client wishes.

"CCE is also working closely with other AMCs as they develop their client bases. They seek quality, and that is what we offer.

"We expect to increase turnover again in 2008 and are determined to reduce costs wherever possible."

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2007 marked not only the 200th anniversary of the Liverpool-based Bibby Line Group, and also Bibby Distribution’s first year with Commercial Contract Engineers.

Bibby Distribution operates over 70 depots throughout the UK. The Group diversified into the distribution and warehousing business in 1985, following a long and established period as a successful, internationally recognised shipping company which continues to this day.

Bibby Distribution has developed a close working relationship with CCE at five Northern area depots, from Liverpool to Leeds, for the repair of its accident damaged vehicles.

Karan Evans, the Insurance Administrator at Bibby Distribution, Liverpool, commented on the first year with CCE: "Commercial Contract Engineers was recommended to us by Zurich Insurance and we are pleased to say that Phil’s team now carries out nearly all the accident repair work for the majority of our Northern depots.

"CCE has certainly developed a reputation here at Bibby Distribution as an organisation that goes out of its way to provide an excellent service, more than willing to collect and recover a vehicle wherever an incident took place. They are always highly responsive and the level of communication CCE provides, in terms of regular updates and information on a particular job, is outstanding.

"We are confident in the CCE operation and whenever we are looking at prospective insurers, we always recommend that CCE is included in their supplier lists. But the most important aspect from my point of view, is that Phil and CCE take the hassle out of what can sometimes be a very frustrating job."

Phil Ewbank added: “Bibby Distribution has a strong reputation in the market and we are pleased the operation has recognised our commitment to service. One of our key USP’s is our dedication to communicate with our clients throughout the job. This is clearly of benefit to an organisation such as Bibby Distribution, where it is vital that vehicles are off the road for the absolute minimum duration.

"We look forward to a long term relationship between our two organisations."

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Nightfreight, the major nationwide parcels carrier, with its head office based in Willenhall, West Midlands, has developed a successful relationship with CCE over the past three years.

The company, which focuses on transporting freight of irregular weights and sizes and also runs large contracts providing specialist transport for logistics companies is committed to customer service, including servicing the B to C market.

Nightfreight has been in operation for 20 years and was keen to work with an accident and repair facility to maintain its fleet of over 150 vehicles, covering the region from Northern Cheshire to South Cumbria.

Commercial Contract Engineers came into the equation just under three years ago following a speculative approach by Phil Ewbank. The relationship has proved to be beneficial to both parties; Robert Fraser, Fleet Engineer at Nightfreight commented: “Phil and his team at Commercial Contract Engineers have delivered what they promised – they made themselves known to us as a commercial vehicle repairer capable of both minor and major repairs to CVs and trailers.

"We have found CCE to be very friendly and co-operative, providing an exceptional level of communication and service at a competitive price. We are delighted to have CCE as one of our key suppliers." Phil Ewbank added: "Nightfreight is one of our major clients and we are pleased that the relationship is progressing successfully. We look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship over the long term."

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Commercial Contract Engineers has been named the Commercial Vehicle Bodyshop of the Year at the prestigious Bodyshop Magazine Industry Event Awards Ceremony held in Birmingham.

CCE was praised for the personal development of its staff and its consistent high standard of quality customer service.

In 2006, CCE were runners up.

"Receiving the award this year is a testament to the company’s ambition to aim as high as possible and a concerted effort by the team," said Phil Ewbank.

Phil continued: “We are absolutely delighted to receive this award and I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone at Commercial Contract Engineers for their dedication, commitment and hard work. I am particularly pleased that we have received recognition for our attention to the personal development of our staff – our most valuable and important asset.

"I have always praised my staff for the loyalty they continue to display and I have always shown respect for our competitors, saying that if we can be considered to be consistently rated in the top four CV repairers in the UK, that is some achievement.

"And to win in the year of our silver anniversary, I couldn’t have asked for more!

"We will strive to carry this award with pride, honour and professionalism throughout the coming year and beyond."

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On 1st December 2006 CCE celebrated 25 years of business – a major milestone and a tremendous mark of achievement, following a record financial year in 2006, having achieved an annual turnover of £3.4 million. The company is now in the top four accident repair and vehicle maintenance specialists in the country for commercial vehicles, trailers, vans, 4X4s and cars.

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“…Thank you for asking us to join you and your family and friends in your 25th Anniversary Celebrations”

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CCE has gained an enviable reputation for its varied training programmes, recognising the essential need to continuously develop its number one asset - its people.

A snapshot of current training activity includes the following:

• PowerPoint and Advanced Excel
• Audatex Estimating
• First Aid and Fire Marshall Training Course
• Air conditioning
• Miracle Puller Training
• NVQ Storage and Warehousing
• NVQ Experience Booster training for new HGV and LGV Drivers

Management training

Previously, CCE has focused their training attention on new equipment and new skills, such as repair methods for the shopfloor and apprentices.

However, in 2006, a tragic incident caused this philosophy to change. A senior member of staff died suddenly, creating a huge void both functionally and personally. The knowledge that was so sadly lost was immense and not something that could be replaced easily. Neither was there a course that would supply this information.

This situation led to a re-assessment of the remaining staff, both as a group and as individuals. Over the weeks and months the staff were able to demonstrate something positive from a real tragedy.

The company engaged the training company, ‘Knowledge Link’, to further develop the management team and their own personal profiles.

This allows CCE to better understand its staff and their views on the business and communicate the way forward, highlighting how everyone has an important role to play.

The programme is called ‘The Rising Stars’, and is aimed at broadening the manager’s experience, to develop an appreciation of the real world environment across business and commerce, with a depth of self knowledge grounded in best practice.

The programme has not only developed CCE’s management skills but also enhanced the company’s willingness to adapt to new challenges and ideas – particularly through the work shadowing scheme with other senior managers in other industries.

The company has benefited from the increased level of training; its staff are more confident and their inherent skills are brought to the surface.

Training and development continues to play a key part in CCE’s long term strategy.

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The Fix Auto Network " The idea behind the Network is to work together to accomplish what you cannot achieve alone" and having the commitment and believe to take our industry forward and deliver a quality product that is desperately needed in this country.

CCE have joined forces with the UK’s second largest Network of Independent Repairers, Fix Auto UK, in order to develop the passenger car side of its business.

Fix Auto was founded in Canada 15 years ago in order to harness the resource of individual family oriented body repairers and form a National Network of the very highest standard. This unique repairer proposition is then marketed to the insurer community at the most senior level, which is where all decisions are now made regarding who is chosen as an approved repair facility.

As one of the most forward thinking and proactive businesses of its kind, CCE were hand picked by the Fix Auto UK team to join the Network and provide both passenger car and commercial coverage in the North West.

Commenting on the move, Phil Ewbank, Managing Director of CCE, said “we recognise the rapid changes in the motor claims industry and despite our high standards of quality and customer care, this no longer enough to ensure CCE is part of the insurer thinking in the long term. We need to join forces with other like minded businesses and make sure we are at the negotiating table when these decisions are made. Fix Auto takes responsibility for this on our behalf and having met the rest of the Network, I am confident that we are in good company”

John Matthews, UK Business Manager for Fix Auto, added “we are seeking a certain type of individual to build the Fix Auto Network. We look for high personal standards, integrity and real vision as well as well kept, well run shop. CCE met our criteria in every sense and the contribution Phil has made so far to the development of group as a whole has been remarkable. We plan to grow the Network to over 200 shops in the UK and deliver long term profitable work to the shops but it all starts with right people at the helm. I am proud to represent CCE at the insurer table.”

Fix Auto UK, now just two years old, has 20 locations across the country and a contract with Fortis Insurance as well as several other negotiations underway. The goal is 30 locations by the end of 2006 and 50 by the end of 2007, offering a real alternative and National coverage to insures.

Gary Birch (Panel Beater), Lee Whittaker (Technician) and also Lee Ewbank, our son, (Panel Beater) is now developing his role as an Estimator as well as Panel Beater, Lee recently completed a course on Audatex Enterprise Estimating System.

Michelle Walker our daughter has recently been promoted to Sales Administration Manager. Michelle worked closely along side Nicky for 3 years in Sales administration.

We wish all the staff well in their new Positions with us. 

July - CCE have gained a place through to the CV Bodyshop of the year Bodyshop Magazine Awards  in September.

Phil says, they are thrilled to be through to the finals again.

June 2006
JJC Take delivery of 2 New RSeries Scania's to increase there fleet size CCE Paint all JJC's vehicles to a very high spec to compliment the Quality of the vehicle & the accessories each truck is personalised to their own specification.

The Manchester-based haulage business, JJC Logistics, has recently had two of their two top of the range, high specification, Scania R Series Topliners V8 580’s, fully painted in its striking blue livery by Commercial Contract Engineers.

The company recognises the importance of a strong, professional and consistent image and sees its vehicles as its best marketing tool.

Nick Light, Transport Manager at JJC Logistics said: “We use the advanced paintshop facilities at CCE for over 90% of our fleet’s requirements, both for new vehicles and accident repair. We operate the full range of vehicles from Sprinter Vans to articulated lorries and we use CCE because it is able to accommodate them all.

“We have developed a good relationship with Phil and his team; they understand our needs and the nature of our business. Distribution is a time critical industry, a point very much appreciated by CCE. They display a rare pride in their work and their level of quality and attention to detail speaks for itself.”

With over 30 vehicles, high profile clients such as Tesco and Allports and servicing the demanding air freight industry, the maintenance and quality of JJC Logistics’ fleet is paramount.

Phil Ewbank, Managing Director of CCE said: “The high visibility of the JJC Logistics fleet gives us the opportunity to demonstrate our excellent paint work skills. We have the facilities and experience to paint the full range of vehicles to a very exacting standard. We are proud of our work with JJC Logistics and we look forward to a successful, long term relationship.”

Nick concludes: “CCE always delivers on their promises – if they say a vehicle will be ready on Friday, we can guarantee that’s when we can collect. This is of key importance to our business. If you haven’t seen our vehicles on the road, why not visit our website at www.jjclogistics.co.uk”

June 2006
Barnes Logistics increase the vehicles maintained with CCE to 9 Renault Premiums tractor units, this contract as grown steadily from March this year.

As a relative newcomer to the services of Commercial Contract Engineers, Barnes Logistics is well-placed to contrast their delivery with that of the competition.

Mark Leigh, Transport Manager at Barnes Logistics, commented on the decision to transfer the majority of their fleet to Commercial Contract Engineers: “We have been with CCE for approximately two months after looking around for a new service provider – with the current repairer not coming up to the mark.

Mark described his impression of CCE: “We visited the facility at Rochdale, which looked clean and professional; the whole package looked good. I can honestly say they are like that advert: ‘They do what it says on the tin!’ As a great believer in communications, with three points of contact, Phil Ewbank and his team provide us with absolutely consistent first rate information, right form the person who answers the phone. Nothing is ever any bother.”

Phil Ewbank, Managing Director, Commercial Contract Engineers, said of the process: “Barnes Logistics approached us last year to discuss the issues of maintenance and costs. A follow up meeting took place in January this year with a view to taking on two trucks and if this was a success they would look to move more trucks across from their established agents.”

At the second meeting in March, Chris Barnes, Managing Director of Barnes Logistics, expressed his concerns with his agent and described what he required from CCE. “They wanted all inspection sheets required by VOSA to be completed on time, reported defects to be attended to, vehicles to be returned clean and a far superior level of communication. We believed we could meet these requirements, but wanted to prove our level of commitment and not fall into the same trap,” explained Phil.

Mark is delighted with the level of response: “One of our vehicles was sent to our previous service provider with an electrical fault and took three weeks to return – we took another vehicle to CCE with a similar fault and it was returned in two and a half hours!”

Barnes Logistics has key clients that supply to the automotive sector. This is, of course, a very time sensitive industry, where heavy penalties can be incurred if the allocated time slot is not met. Barnes Logistics needs the reliability of a company of a service provider like CCE to operate successfully.

“There have even been occasions when we are exceptionally busy and someone from CCE has turned up to our site to return one of our vehicles. This really does exceed our expectations. With CCE, the customer really is king!” Mark added.

Phil concluded: “We are delighted to be working with Barnes Logistics and to demonstrate our skills and quality service. We look forward to a long term relationship.”

The Barnes Logistics fleet consists of 18 tractor units and one rigid and are planning to increase this to 30. Nine are now with CCE, and they are in the process of transferring the balance.

April 2006
CCE website goes 'Live'!

On launching the all new CCE website Phil said: "This site went live in April 2006. We are delighted with the result and we hope you are impressed with this snapshot of our company. A big thank you to everyone involved, in the design and development of what I hope will be a very useful tool for CCE and its new and existing customers alike.

"If you would like to contact me about the site, or would like to get in touch with CCE for any reason please click here.

"Do search us out again in the near future as commercialcontract.co.uk will be updated regularly. Thank you for visiting and welcome to the world of CCE!"

March 2006
Industry Overview
"Planned maintenance is key to keeping vehicle fleets moving and in good working order whilst at the same time reducing operating costs and downtime." Says CCE’s Phil Ewbank.

"Planned or scheduled maintenance not only offers the operator the ability to control his costs through a fixed maintenance agreement for example on vehicles of 3.5 tonnes over between three and five years dependant on the customer’s requirements, it also minimises downtime on repairs," commented Phil.

"Furthermore it avoids any unexpected costs as the vehicle gets older which can be further compounded with replacement vehicle hire costs which could have so easily been avoided.

"Additionally, planned maintenance adds value to the full life costs thus maximising the residual value – a factor which is often overlooked."

February 2006
The first draft on the new website is completed - As planned, the first draft of the all new CCE website is completed for February.

Phil Ewbank commented on meeting the website schedule: “CCE has state of the art facilities and delivers a state of the art service. This must be matched with the latest technology in our administration, information, estimating and ordering systems.

“Earlier this year, I engaged the services of the website design company, Viccari Wheele, who have now developed the first draft of a very attractive package; straightforward to use and navigate, providing information from ordering to employment and from services to a photo gallery, which presents a very positive image of our business to new and existing clients.

“We expect the website to go fully ‘live’ in April, with the address commercialcontract.co.uk – but one thing I am committed to is never letting it grow stale. So, if you have any news that you might like to include – let me know, so we can keep the site updated regularly.”

The website is part of Phil’s Strategic Plan for 2006, the objective being to ensure that everyone is aware of the service and professionalism that CCE has to offer.

February 2006
CCE Invests in new equipment
CCE invests more than £160,000 in state of the art equipment.

Investments include:
• 3 new Courtesy Tractor units - over £100,000 investment.
• Cellette 5mtr Bench Jig for LDV and 4x4’s - £24,000 investment.
• Audatex Enterprise (New Estimating System) to enable further development of the car accident repair business.
• Alesco Induction Heater purchased for improved efficiency on chassis repairs - £13,000
• An additional L.G.V. Recovery vehicle to the company fleet to accommodate the growth in the business - £25,000.

Phil Ewbank, Managing Director of Commercial Contract Engineers commented: "We continually re-invest our profits in new equipment in order to keep pace with technology and to ensure we offer our customers the very highest levels of service."

February 2006
Quality service - The key to success
Commercial Contract Engineers is a recognised supplier to the major insurance companies, backed up by accreditation to BS5750.

CCE’s proud slogan is 'The difference is in the quality and service' and that claim is supported by industry awards as well as regular customer testimonials praising its service.

Phil Ewbank says: "CCE may be a family owned operation but I regard our employees as our extended family. Customers who come here are impressed by the genuine welcome they receive and this detailed attention to customer service runs right through the operation from the offices to the workshop."

Quality control is rigorously carried out throughout all operations undertaken by CCE’s highly skilled workforce, and to help with the environment all emissions are filtered and cleaned until totally eco friendly which is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to a cleaner and more stable world.

January 2006
As part of its Strategic Plan for 2006, Phil Ewbank has engaged the services of Midlands based national public relations agency, Century PR.

Phil said: "2006 is an important milestone year for CCE; not only have we again succeeded in achieving a record turnover, we will be celebrating the 25th anniversary of the business. We have a great deal to be proud of.

"In addition, we want CCE to grow steadily in terms of our customer base and our reputation. With this in mind, we believe the services of Century PR would add value; promoting our services to the national media and trade press and producing literature for new and existing clients.

"We are now one of the top four repair and maintenance specialists in the country and we have the potential to reach higher. We also think it is appropriate for the whole team at CCE to know they are an essential part to our success - so be prepared for a photograph!"

John Clarke, Chief Executive of Century PR added: "We are delighted to be engaged as the PR agency for CCE. We have a tremendous wealth of experience in the transport and distribution sectors and we understand how to maximise the outstanding skills, knowledge and service that CCE has to offer. We look forward to a long term, mutually beneficial relationship. Good luck to Phil and everyone at CCE for your anniversary year!"