Coach and bus parts specialist Imperial Engineering has readied itself for the end of the Brexit transition period on 31 December by increasing its stock levels by over 30%.
The move was made after Imperial’s assessment of the potential ramifications of a ‘no deal’ end to negotiations. The supplier says it is now in a “state of readiness”. That will allow it to continue to support customers over the coming months in the event of border delays.
Explains Sales Director John Dwight: “2020 has already been the most challenging year for the coach and bus industry. We took the decision to increase our stockholding on a number of product lines to mitigate against risks to the supply chain, as well as potential tariffs.”
Mr Dwight adds that a no-deal conclusion to the transition period would inevitably lead to price rises on imported parts.
Certain failures – especially within electrical systems – are more likely to occur in winter months owing to harsher operating conditions, he says. Because of that, Imperial Engineering recommends that additional checks are carried out on those components, in addition to mandatory inspections of other vehicle systems.
The air system, and particularly the air dryer, should also be in full working order if difficulties are to be avoided. Fuel tanks should be kept as full as possible to prevent condensation formation on tank walls, the supplier adds.
Imperial Engineering is based in Hertfordshire. It is a primary distributor of Bosch, Dana, Haldex, Knorr-Bremse, Meritor, PSS, TMD Friction, Wabco and ZF products.
