Vauxhall has established a UK-wide network of specialist LCV Business Centres as part of its plans to double its share of the van market to around 15% over the next two years.

The brand said that it has appointed the network of Van Business Centres as it looks to drive growth in the sector by “providing the highest standards of customer service in sales, aftersales and workshop services”.

Vauxhall’s managing director, Stephen Norman, spelled out his ambition to grow the brand’s presence in the commercial vehicle sector in a recent interview with AM.

“It’s a 350,000 vehicles market come rain or shine. That’s bigger than the Dutch car market and the same as Belgium’s, but few people even talk about vans. And we’re taking a miserly share of it, so that’s where the opportunity lies,” said Norman.

In 2017’s 362,149 registration LCV market Vauxhall took a 7.8% share (28,368 units), placing it fifth in the sector behind Ford, Volkswagen, Peugeot and Mercedes-Benz.

Norman believes there is potential for the Luton-built Vivaro panel van to more than double its current sales.

While all Vauxhall retailers can sell LCVs, the new Business Centres are further empowered to chase fleet business and must meet certain CI requirements.

Each Van Business Centre will display Vauxhall’s full LCV range, and have available for test-drive the all-new Combo Cargo – 2019’s International Van of the Year – the British-built Vivaro, and the Movano large van.

All 65 Van Business Centres also employ dedicated LCV sales consultants, who are highly-trained to provide a personal response in line with the customer’s business requirements.

Vauxhall-trained technicians will fit only genuine Vauxhall parts, with a one-year warranty. Courtesy vehicles will be available in the event of a customer’s vehicle being immobilised, so that they can keep their business moving.

For added convenience for business users, Van Business Centres will all offer overnight drop off and pick up availability.

When pre-booked, 90 minute express servicing is also available. Customers can book their vehicle in online, 24 hours a days, seven days a week.

Derek Wilson, Vauxhall’s LCV director, said: “This important change demonstrates our commitment to looking after the needs of our LCV customers, by delivering a service level that matches up to our outstanding product range, that helps carry British business.

“This programme brings industry-leading customer experience to Vauxhall LCV customers, with comprehensive geographical coverage across the UK.

“Our nationwide network of van experts will deliver the highest standards of skills and expertise whilst also helping business users save time and money.”