Anston re-energised

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A good mix of used coaches. Seen from left to right are: a former Weardale Plaxton Panther-bodied Volvo B9R, an ex-Rover Mercedes-Benz Tourino, a former Hodgson of Barnard Castle Indcar Next-bodied Mercedes-Benz and an ex-Moffatt & Williamson Plaxton Elite. GARETH EVANS

Gareth Evans reports on last week’s Alexander Dennis Limited / Plaxton sales event at its Anston dealership

More than 60 visitors attended Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL) / Plaxton’s Spring Open Days event last Wednesday and Thursday (April 4 and 5) at its Anston dealership in South Yorkshire.

The firm said the event generated sales in the region of £400,000 and multiple new leads. Fresh cuisine was served by a friendly local butcher – bacon rolls in the morning, followed by pie and peas for dinner. £1,120 was raised in aid of the nearby Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice from visitor donations as well as a charity raffle.

Alongside a healthy selection of new and used coaches and buses, among other highlights the event provided the opportunity to look at what is believed to be the inaugural 93-seater 15m Plaxton Panther, recently upseated by Ashall’s Coaches of Greater Manchester.

Plaxton roundup

“From an owner operator to a fleet, everyone’s had some experience of a Plaxton,” enthused Richard Matthews, Retail Sales Director.

“We’re trying to tap into that. That’s part of the role of my team – not to re-invent, but to refresh. This event is part of that – not just a used vehicle focus, but an event about Anston. We’ve got new stock across the range, including buses and coaches.

“The Enviro400 high spec 10,000th two-axle, low-floor double deck bus is present at this event. Demand from coach operators for high-spec buses has continued on from last year. It’s about moving people in a bit of style.”

Asked whether it’s fair to say Anston is being re-energised, Richard replied: “Yes. We want the focus of Anston to be a sales centre – not just ‘you can come and buy a used Plaxton.’

“We’ll carry stock or you can get access to new bus products, new coaches, Cheetah and of course, a full range of used, which is predominantly Plaxton. Anyone can come here, look at our product portfolio and take the vehicles for test drive.” […]

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