Ken Thomas Classic

VOLVO RESTORATION FOR KEN THOMAS!

Derbyshire based promotional model vehicle specialists, Search Impex, are delighted to announce the release of a 1:50 scale Volvo F10 (4×2) tractor unit and tri-axle, classic curtain trailer, customised in the well-known livery of Cambridgeshire-based haulier, Ken Thomas.

The models have been produced as a non-exclusive, open release, in conjunction with WSI as part of the UK Classics 200 series of models. Each model comes complete with a WSI certificate stating that the model is limited to a maximum run of 200 pieces worldwide.

The original business was founded back in 1948 by Ken Thomas who, with only two vehicles, started to transport produce from local farms & packhouses to markets in London and Birmingham. In the 1960’s the first warehouse was built and used for storage for local food companies. The early 1980’s saw significant growth in transport service and nationwide distribution was provided. Continued expansion in the mid 1980’s saw investment in quality insulated warehouses to keep up with the demand. Ken’s son, John, took over the running of the business in the early 1980’s and oversaw further significant growth of both the truck & trailer fleet, as well as embarking on another large expansion of storage facilities to cope with their growing customer base.

In 2004, John took a break from the business but was never far from the haulage and logistics sector. Indeed, such was the allure of the transport and warehousing industry, John couldn’t keep away and so, in 2012, he went back to full-time. Today’s Company continues to trade under the well-known name of Ken Thomas and with a major focus on storage and warehousing operates around 600,000 sq ft of storage space across two sites. Much of the transport work involves distribution of ambient food products and food packaging throughout the UK.

The Ken Thomas fleet of modern trucks (predominantly Scania) have attractively up-dated and refreshed graphics, but continue to be liveried in the traditional green, cream & red colourscheme of the Company, thus making them instantly recognisable. As for trailers, the fleet comprises primarily curtainsiders but also some low loaders which, as well as being used for general haulage work, are also used to transport a growing fleet of beautifully restored classic trucks to truck shows and events. With a passion for restoring the trucks and trailers of yester-year, John used to undertake projects for other businesses and individuals. He has, however, scaled back this line of work and now only undertakes restoration projects for his own truck collection – which now numbers 18 classic trucks. The Volvo F10 unit on which the model is to be based is the latest restoration project (completed in early 2022) which, along with the classic curtain trailer is proudly on show at every suitable opportunity.

Models, available from Search Impex, are priced at £156 each (including UK delivery & VAT). For details of availability of this and other models, collectors can visit the Search Impex website at www.search-impex.co.uk or call on 01332 873555.