Ciceley Commercials enjoyed a sensational night at Mercedes-Benz Vans’ latest celebration of franchisee excellence, winning no fewer than three of the six prizes that were up for grabs, including the most coveted of all, for Retailer of the Year.
A founding member of the Mercedes-Benz Dealer Network, the family-owned company represents the three-pointed star in Lancashire and Cumbria, as well as parts of Greater Manchester and south-west Scotland.
Ciceley’s success in winning the Retailer of the Year crown reflects a magnificent performance throughout 2018 by the 200-plus colleagues who work at its headquarters and dealership in Blackburn, and other sales and service facilities in Bolton, Carlisle and Dumfries.
Staged at the Celtic Manor Resort, in Newport, South Wales, the Mercedes-Benz Van Stars event was hosted by sports and music radio and television presenter Colin Murray.
Ciceley Commercials also claimed Mercedes-Benz Vans’ top accolade in 2015, the first year in which it was presented. And just as he did four years ago, a delighted Dealer Principal Mike Lewis again stepped up to receive the prestigious trophy.
“Given the tough competition from other members of this network, to be recognised for any award is special – but to win three is utterly amazing,” said Mike. “Every member of the company team has played a part in our success, and I’m extremely proud that we’ve been recognised by Mercedes-Benz Vans as the best in the business.”
Ciceley Commercials sells and supports Sprinter, Vito and Citan van models, as well as X-Class pickups. Mike pointed out that “not only do we sell to many ‘blue chip’ national companies, but we also do a fabulous job for retail customers who want just one vehicle”.
He continued: “There were challenges during 2018, of course, but we came through them with flying colours. It was a year in which we over-achieved on sales of both new and used vans, and activated more connected vehicles than any other Mercedes-Benz Vans Retailer. On aftersales, meanwhile, we posted record workshop labour and parts sales, and exceeded all our service contract targets.”
Mercedes-Benz Vans Managing Director Steve Bridge, added: “In this evolving world it is important that our Retailers not only sell and mend well, but also that we react quickly to customer requests, and embrace all available technology to enable them to be more efficient and to beat their competition.
“Our Retailer of the Year award has traditionally focused on just two areas of our businesses, Sales and Customer Services. Now, though, we include other factors such as the management of customer relationships and enquiry response times, together with activations of our Mercedes PRO connect vehicle management technology, and the way it is being applied for the benefit of customers.
“Ciceley Commercials has excelled in all of these areas and is a worthy winner of the Mercedes-Benz Vans Retailer of the Year award.”
