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Nella Cutlery Services, which describes itself as the UK’s leading knife sharpening specialist, has invested in an integrated Webfleet telematics, driver safety and camera solution for its van fleet, the company said. The family-owned business supplies and sharpens professional knives for chefs, butchers and food manufacturers across the UK, and is marking its 125th anniversary this year.
Francesco Bondonno, Director of Operations at Nella, said: “Our vehicles are central to the service we provide, so keeping them on the road and our drivers safe is critical.” He said Webfleet gives the business much better visibility across the fleet, allowing it to understand driver performance, monitor vehicle conditions and build a clearer picture of what happened when incidents occur.
Driver monitoring and maintenance
The solution includes Webfleet’s OptiDrive 360 in-cab driver feedback tool, which the company said is helping it encourage safer and more efficient driving by tracking behaviours including speeding, harsh braking and driver distraction. Nella said its reporting also makes it easier to identify drivers who might benefit from extra coaching or guidance.
Vehicle data from the solution is also being used to spot potential mechanical problems before they worsen, according to the company. Alerts covering issues such as gearbox or clutch wear allow Nella to intervene early, supporting what the company called a more proactive approach to maintenance and helping keep vans on the road.
Cameras and emissions reporting
The solution’s forward- and driver-facing cameras are helping to streamline insurance claims, Nella said, with video footage and crash data accessible instantly through the Webfleet interface. The company said this gives it a clearer understanding of incidents and provides evidence to support claims and drivers who may have been unfairly accused of dangerous driving.
Webfleet’s CO2 reporting tool is also giving Nella greater visibility of emissions, letting the fleet team identify driving behaviours that may be increasing fuel use and emissions, according to the company. Nella said sustainability runs through the business, which also resurfaces and refurbishes chopping boards supplied to professional kitchens so they can be reused rather than discarded.
Alex Crane-Robinson, Regional Director UK & Ireland at Webfleet, said: “Connected fleet technology gives operators the information they need to coach drivers, investigate incidents quickly and spot potential vehicle issues earlier, rather than waiting until they result in an accident or a van being taken off the road.”