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Renault Trucks Masters strengthen MC Kelly’s South West delivery fleet

Devon-based food supplier MC Kelly has added two new Renault Trucks Master vans to its fleet, supplied by Sparks Commercials, as part of a wider renewal programme.

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MC Kelly, the Devon-based catering butcher and fine food supplier, has expanded its refrigerated delivery fleet with the addition of two Renault Trucks Master Red Edition vans.

The new vehicles, supplied by Sparks Commercials, will support the company’s daily multi-drop operations across Devon, Cornwall and Somerset.

Operating from Elston Farm in Copplestone, MC Kelly supplies restaurant-quality meat and fine foods to a range of customers including pubs, restaurants, hotels, farm shops, schools and universities.

The two 3.5-tonne medium wheelbase vans join two identical Renault Trucks Masters already in use, and are part of an ongoing fleet renewal strategy focused on improving reliability and service.

Fred Morris, managing director at MC Kelly, said: “Our delivery vehicles are the backbone of our operation.

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“We’re sending out time-critical, perishable goods six days a week over long distances – Devon, Cornwall and Somerset – so reliability is non-negotiable.

“With our older vans frequently out of action, we knew we had to change. Since switching to Renault Trucks with Sparks, we haven’t looked back.”

All four Renault Trucks Master vans are fitted with high-performance fridge conversions by Dorset-based Icecraft. “Elliot at Sparks recommended Icecraft, and they’ve done a superb job,” said Morris. “The whole process—from order to delivery—has been smooth, honest and efficient, and the service from Sparks has been first-class.”

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Each van averages 200 miles a day and up to 50,000 miles per year, tackling routes that include Dartmoor and the South Hams. Morris added: “Some of those Cornwall roads are the last place you want to break down.

“We deliver to wedding venues who order Saturday morning for Saturday events – there’s no ‘get it the day before just in case’ mentality anymore.

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“Chefs don’t over-order or carry much stock, so what they order for today, they’re cooking today. Reliability and quality are critical for our business.”

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Morris said downtime has dropped significantly since making the switch. “Before, we experienced roughly one breakdown a week.

“Now, our vehicle downtime is virtually non-existent and our deliveries are on time, every time.”

Elliot Tratt, transport solution executive at Sparks Commercials, said: “It’s been a pleasure working with MC Kelly.

“Fred’s business depends on absolute reliability for fresh food deliveries across some challenging rural routes, and the Master 4 has proven perfect for their demanding multi-drop operation.

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“We’re delighted they’re planning to continue expanding their Renault Trucks fleet and look forward to supporting them with their fleet renewal programme.”