In the latest instalment of our fleet industry executive interview series, we spoke to Tom Skinner, Fleet Sales Manager at Midlands Truck & Van, about overcoming constrained vehicle supply, helping partners to meet their Net Zero targets and the importance of customer service…
Tell us about your company, products and services.
Midlands Truck & Van. We retail, service and sell parts for Mercedes Benz Commercial Vehicles.
What have been the biggest challenges the Fleet Services industry has faced over the past 12 months?
Constrained vehicle supply which is thankfully improving to normal levels again.
And what have been the biggest opportunities?
The advent of zero emission vehicles and supporting our customers’ on their journey to net zero.
What is the biggest priority for the Fleet Services industry in 2025?
The integration of zero emission vehicles to UK fleets.
What are the main trends you are expecting to see in the market in 2025?
Fleet transition to zero emission vehicles. Next generation OEM vehicle telematics.
What technology is going to have the biggest impact on the market this year?
Electric vehicles and OEM telematics.
In 2026 we’ll all be talking about…?
Midlands Truck & Van and their commitment to delivering industry leading customer service.
Which person in, or associated with, the Fleet Services industry would you most like to meet?
Everyone that has a commercial vehicle requirement we may be able to support.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learnt about the Fleet Services sector?
I will alter this one just a little if I may. The “most important thing” in my opinion is to provide the highest levels of service to our customers.
You go to the bar at the Fleet Services Management Summit – what’s your tipple of choice?
Pint of bitter.
What’s the most exciting thing about your job?
Building relationships that support the best outcomes for our customers.
And what’s the most challenging?
Navigating legislative changes to our trading landscape.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Treat others as you would like to be treated.
Peaky Blinders or The Crown?
Peaky Blinders. I’m from Brum after all…
