Why a tatty van could cost you business

7th November 2013

Two thirds of consumers say the condition of a tradesperson’s 
vehicle would influence their decision to use them, new research has found.

According to the study of 2,000 consumers, conducted by Populus for Vanarama:

• 63% of respondents said the condition of a tradesman’s business vehicle was important in giving them confidence in their work.
• Nearly half (49%) said the age of vehicle was important as well.
• And for nearly two thirds (59%), being able to see a company logo on a vehicle gives confidence in the quality of work to be done.
• 70% said that how the tradesperson was dressed when they visited their property was important.
• 93% said the ability to show evidence of certified technical skills was important to give them confidence in the work to be undertaken.

“With the economic outlook in the construction sector and related trades particularly good at the moment, it would be easy for tradespeople to think they don’t need to worry about the condition of the van they drive,” Vanarama’s Andy Alderson said.  “But the research highlights that having the best tools for the job – including a smart and up to date van – will pay dividends. 



“It is equivalent to wearing a smart shirt and tie when going for an interview for an office job in making a good first impression.”

More than half (51%) of respondents said they would worry about how good a tradesperson was if they couldn’t afford to drive a decent work vehicle.  And over a third (39%) said they would be concerned about their reliability.