Europe’s leading trailer manufacturer offers three specialised models for its UK & Ireland customers – the S.CS FIXED ROOF curtainsider semi-trailer, the S.CS FREEPOST ‘pillarless’ curtainsider semi-trailer, and the S.BO PACE dry freight box semi-trailer – which are all produced locally at its assembly facility in Manchester.
The plant will now be brought more closely into Schmitz Cargobull’s wider European production strategy, a move that underscores the importance of these two markets. This repositioning aims to boost efficiency and sustainability, ensuring the company can swiftly respond to the demands of its customers.
As part of the strategy, Frank Reppenhagen has been appointed managing director for the UK & Ireland from 1 April, extending his role as regional director for Western Europe. His leadership will support the company’s ambitions and strengthen its focus on customer-centric solutions.
Ralph Kleideiter, CSO of Schmitz Cargobull, said: “Since it opened in 2021, our Manchester plant has enabled us to cater specifically to the needs of operators in the UK & Ireland, offering tailored products that have been very well received. We are now aligning the site more closely with our European production strategies to better support our growth and the needs of our customers in these vital markets.”
Reppenhagen, who began his career at Schmitz Cargobull in 2001, has extensive experience in the region, having previously led the UK & Ireland team from 2012 to 2017.
His appointment follows the departure of Paul Avery, managing director of operations, and Colin Maher, managing director of sales and after sales, who have left the business by mutual agreement.
