The Farmers Mart Summer 2017 - Issue 51 | Page 108

Thornton Breakers
COMMENTS FROM THORNTON BREAKERS CUSTOMERS
GEORGE PINDER – FAIRLEIGH FARM
Navara Engine fitted “ Couldn ’ t fault them . Superb job in excellent time ”.
JAMES WINKFIELD – ROCKWOOD FARM
Ranger Engine Fitted and Body work done “ I was initially unsure about having my vehicle picked up by someone I didn ’ t know . However , they were spot on – great job and it was done within the week ”.
JOHN SMITH – COMMON LANE FARM
Ranger engine fitted “ I was very impressed . The dealer had avoided the warranty so I needed a good deal and the job doing quickly . Thornton breakers service was Quick and Prompt , excellent ”
ANDREW NEAL – SOWDENS FARM
L200 Engine fitted “ No complaints at all , they were very helpful , fitted in a couple of days , it goes like a dream ”
Quality is key , says Peter , as you only have to let someone down once and they won ’ t deal with you again . So , every single part no matter how small or large is fully cleaned and tested before use and carries a minimum twomonth warranty . Going forward there are plans to move the workshop elsewhere in the yard to create more storage space for stripped parts , enabling an even quicker service to customers when they ring or email for a part .
The service side is where Peter keeps a constant eye and ensures that everyone only promises a customer what they know they can deliver . If a vehicle is taken in with multiple or unknown problems , the customer will be kept informed at all times on progress . This coupled with the fast parts delivery service has kept many loyal customers and creates countless new ones . The biggest day to date saw 31 parcels being despatched and eight pallets !
Having a good business is one thing but in this day and age communicating your message is as important as the service you deliver . Hollie has done a lot of work with Peter on the company ’ s marketing which has created a fantastic website , eBay shop , Facebook and Twitter along with
selective advertising in quality trade magazines and journals .
They attend numerous agricultural and equestrian shows as well as livestock and auction marts , always with a display of their liveried vehicles , parts displays and giveaways , manned by Peter and his team with their friendly , down-to-earth and helpful approach .
I asked Peter what had been the biggest success . He quickly replied : “ Specialising in 4x4 ’ s and pickups - there are more of these than Landrovers .”
And his biggest challenge ? “ Maintaining the growth and always moving forward but keeping the same level of service .”
I think one of the biggest assets to the company is Peter ’ s knowledge and enthusiasm . Everyone works extremely hard and Peter is always making sure his staff are OK and above all he enjoys himself which filters down to the staff . He trusts and expects everyone to get on with their jobs but is always available for help or advice . He prides himself on the knowledge of his team which is good thing as most days the phones are red hot with enquiries . A normal day will see 15 to 20 parcels and five pallets going out . Again , the team of fitters is top notch and
very reliable keeping customers on the move .
Thornton breakers has been built on service and hard work . However , Peter is always mindful that his many customers place the company where it is now and for that he is grateful , and as a token of that gratitude , he supports many charities and events . The farming community also comes under that banner and during the recent floods that near ruined many farming operations , Peter and the team were regularly donating loads of all important hay and straw across the country to the worst affected areas .
I asked Peter about the future . He said : “ We want to take more parts in and offer a bigger same day service . There are plans to improve the layout of the yard to get much more racking in and further improve the workshop area . You have to keep up with all the latest models and technology and the internet business just continues to sophisticate and grow .”
Thornton Breakers continues to thrive and should Peter ever retire he can be safe in the knowledge that Cam and Hollie will continue that success .
108 Summer 2017 www . farmers-mart . co . uk