How important has the 2025 purchase of Van Guard Accessories (VGA) been for bott?
This was a strategic acquisition enabling us to provide an important ‘one-stop-shop solution’ for our customers. The VGA business has seen tremendous growth in recent years, steadily expanding its market share across the UK. Now as part of the bott Group, VGA can leverage our global network to reach more customers. We have also committed to an extensive investment program in product development and infrastructure, which has the VGA team highly motivated to be part of the wider Group.
What can you tell us about bott’s new vehicle conversion centre in Exeter?
We are excited about this new investment enabling us to offer a full range of conversion services – racking, electrical systems, roof accessories, security, graphics and more – to customers in the South-West region. Growing our partner network alongside our own locations is a key part of ensuring we cover every customer segment across the UK, from individual tradespeople to larger fleets.
A localised facility not only allows for a more sustainable approach but ensures we are more connected with our customers. We are very much looking forward to hosting many open days and early morning breakfast events.
How important are training and apprenticeships to bott?
A strong testament to our commitment is reflected in our team today, where many senior positions are held by colleagues who began their careers through apprenticeships, including some with over 40 years of service. In recent years we have significantly increased our focus on training and apprenticeships, not only in engineering but across the organisation in support functions such as IT and finance.
Working closely with local education and training providers is vital. Manufacturing can sometimes be overlooked by younger generations, until they see the wide range of opportunities the sector offers, including digital, engineering & design, and marketing. It’s our responsibility to develop young talent to secure the future of our industry.
Which products are bott likely to be exhibiting at the Commercial Vehicle Show this year?
This year, we’re excited to show just how versatile our solutions are for every kind of commercial vehicle. Take our bott vario3 van racking system – it’s super flexible and can be tailored for all sorts of industries and vehicle types. Whether it’s a housing association vehicle, or even a motorsport support vehicle, bott vario3 adapts perfectly to fit the job.
With the addition of VGA, we can now cover everything inside and out, from roof storage and security systems. Put it together with bott vario3, and you’ve got a true one-stop shop solution for any vehicle. We’ve also got a brand-new product to reveal at the show, so be sure to visit us to see it in action.
Basically, whatever your vehicle challenge, we’ve got the flexibility, storage, and technology to make it work – showing just why bott is the partner businesses rely on across every sector.
Tell us about the importance of the CV Show for bott?
Such events are key opportunities to showcase our products and services to a wider audience. The CV Show is a ‘marque’ event in our calendar and therefore we plan well in advance to ensure our message is effectively conveyed to the audience. I personally value the fantastic opportunity to network, meet new customers, learn about industry developments and of course have some fun.
Nick Smith
Chief Executive Officer (UK) at bott Ltd
