press release

SSL Electrical is first to switch on to Vanaways and Toolstation partnership

Vanaways
Vanaways
16th Mar 2023
SSL Electrical is first to switch on to Vanaways and Toolstation partnership

Launched in December last year, the ground-breaking link between the two companies means Toolstation customers can now pick up not just a drill or some screws – but also order new van, via promotions running in stores and online.

Specialist contractor SSL Electrical, of Wootton Bassett, near Swindon, is one such operator – and has now taken delivery of its latest vehicles, ordered from Vanaways through the dedicated website toolstation.vanaways.co.uk  .

Joint Managing Directors Lawrence Cantelow and Martin Bevan are already enjoying their Ford Ranger Wildtrack pickup trucks, and have a crew-cabbed Transit Custom van on order for delivery in the next couple of weeks.

“As commercial and domestic electricians we use our local Toolstation branch a lot, for tools and other bits and pieces,” said Mr Cantelow.

“I never expected to buy a van there but when I saw the promotion display in the store it was perfect timing, as we were ready to replace some vehicles we’d had on contract hire.

“I contacted Vanaways’ Robert Clements, who quickly put together a package to supply exactly what we wanted, at an excellent price and to a tight timeframe. The transaction was completed online but I could just as easily have done the whole thing over the phone, it was that simple.”

He continued: “The process was very quick and easy, which meant it only took up a minimal amount of our time and allowed Martin and I to remain focused on running our business, which is exactly as it should be. The customer service we’ve received from Vanaways has been exemplary.”

The partnership between Toolstation and Vanaways is designed to give trade customers, home improvers and self-builders access to vans of virtually any make or model at highly competitive prices, with the absolute minimum of hassle.

Matt Kent, Category Manager at Toolstation, said: “This arrangement is part of our increased effort to support tradespeople. The range of vans available is a welcome expansion to our offer of tools and more for any task, and we look forward to helping tradespeople find their ideal vehicle.”    

“Bringing our two brands together makes perfect sense,” added Vanaways Managing Director Chris Jakeways. “Toolstation’s customers are exactly the type of people who will benefit most from the quick, simple and trouble-free deals we can offer to get their businesses on the road to success.”

The arrangement sees Vanaways’ services marketed directly through Toolstation’s web presence, online to registered customers, and at the retailer’s network of more than 550 stores nationwide.

Vanaways, meanwhile, has set up a special team in its new Bristol head office to deal with Toolstation customers from point of enquiry, through to delivery and beyond. As well as the website – toolstation.vanaways.co.uk – there’s a dedicated phone number, 0117 235 6000, through which customers can order a vehicle from home or work, then sit back and wait for it to be delivered direct to their premises.

Partners in progress: SSL Directors Andy Kilburn, left, and Martin Bevan, right, with Vanaways Brand Manager Robert Clements

Positive reaction: from left, Robert Clements of Vanaways with SSL Directors Martin Bevan and Andy Kilburn

Vanaways Reviews

   
John Owens

John Owens

17 October 2025

"Fantastic service from start to finish. Liam took the time to listen to the vehicle that I wanted. Within 2 weeks the right vehicle was sourced and delivered Joe was on point with work out the logistics and taking care of my part ex with exception customer service Thank you both"

Sarah Ward

Sarah Ward

01 September 2025

"We have used Vanaways on two occasions now and the customer service has always been great. I contacted them as our team grew and withing 2 weeks we had the vans in our yard. Quick and efficient service all round. Tyler in the delivery department kept me up to date throughout the process. Would certainly recommend."

Charlie B

Charlie B

28 May 2025

"I recently bought a new Ranger Platinum from Vanaways. I dealt with Chris Baxter who helped make the whole process really straight forward and kept me up to date. I would highly recommend and look forward to further business! Many thanks"

Michael Orimogunje

Michael Orimogunje

03 October 2025

"Vanaways is really great, from contacting them up to the delivery can't be smoother than it was. These guys are professionals and I believe the best in the industry. Thanks to Philip Jones, Ross Davies, Jihad Khan and one or two individuals I had contact with throughout the process. I recommend Vanaways and will use them again."

Kimberley Harkins

Kimberley Harkins

30 June 2025

"Very happy with our Vanaways transaction! We needed three new vans quickly for our company and Vanaways didn't disappoint. Hannah and Abbie were on hand every step of the way and provided extremely good prices which suited our business. Customer service is a priority for them and it shows with every phone call and email! When I need a few more, they will be my first port of call. Thankyou guys!"

4.8 out of 5 from 471 reviews
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