SMH Fleet Solutions is recruiting more than 130 technicians across the UK to meet the demand for its services as the market accelerates after lockdown.

The company is recruiting roles from apprentices to managers at its sites and its operations in Bedford, Gloucester, Worcester and St Helens are hiring workshop and bodyshop technicians, along with vehicle inspectors.

James Starling, chief commercial officer of SMH Fleet Solutions, said: "We have seen demand rise across the board as the market picks up after lockdown.

"Beyond the initial spike in demand for end of life services, we have also seen a change in the market dynamics with increased demand for in-life support as mobility as a service grows in popularity.

"We are recruiting in sites across the UK to increase our operational capacity and continue on our investment and growth plan."

SMH Fleet Solutions has recently invested in new technology platforms across the group to help drive operational efficiency and is speeding up the vehicle refurbishment process with a six-figure investment in new Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) recalibration equipment and training.

It said it has also restructured its commercial and IT operations to deliver faster and more flexible services to customers.

SMH Fleet Solutions appointed James Starling as new chief commercial officer (CCO), as part of the restructure.

The company also announced the roll-out of skills training at its sites to ensure technicians are qualified on the latest electric vehicle (EV) technologies. 

The training enables vehicle maintenance and repair technicians to continue to work safely on any electric and hybrid vehicle and offer the capability to work on any high voltage components and systems, said SMH Fleet Solutions.

SMH Fleet Solutions recently said it is aiming to build an “industry-leading” EV capability across its UK operations after partnering with Drax to develop the project.