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British manufacturers deserved more loyalty when we had them
Page 30
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I READ WITH some amusement of Tony Hughes' rage at the way he feels his preferred European supplier is not returning his loyal support (CM 30 August). I've spent all my working life involved with two British truck manufacturers and their dealer networks in various sales and service positions, and like many in the industry T am saddened by their demise.
However, it has to be admitted that while our American engine and driveline suppliers' products were far superior to our European competitors with regard to reliability, durability and whole-life costs. the same could not he said for our general fit and finish.
It was not all bad by any means, and thanks to a small band of loyal customers we had some very good years. However, rapid product improvement was difficult as design, research and development had to operate on very tight budgets. The reason? Operators in our main home markets were too eager to spend their money supporting our European rivals, some with their pricing heavily subsidised by their taxpayers, regardless of how well we supported them and their home-grown trucks in the aftermarket.
If we had received a bit more loyalty when the chequebook was out, our products would have improved more rapidly and matched if not surpassed our European competitors. Some of the British manufacturers might have survived and operators likeTony would now be in a position where those manufacturers would be giving their home market priority, as they always did. and supporting them with the personal touch for which they were renowned.
With regard to being continually kicked in the teeth, it's been a long time coming and I don't wish to gloat but welcome to the club.
Mike Davies Waterloovil le, Hants