Following a detailed customer review, Manheim revealed it will move from the current monthly HGV online auction to a hybrid weekly programme, with alternating physical and online auctions.

The first physical auction will take place on May 23 at Bruntingthorpe Proving Ground in Leicestershire, alongside plans to launch four additional HGV de-fleet hubs at its Shotts, Washington, Gloucester and Colchester auction centres.

The strategic move will allow Manheim to meet customer demand in the HGV market for a flexible service that helps vendors maximise sale returns, minimise movement costs, and split duplicate model volume, it says.

Manheim’s managing director Peter Bell (pictured) explained: “Since taking up the role of MD at Manheim in 2018 I have been listening to our customers.

"We know that our HGV vendors trust in our ability to offer the optimum route to market to maximise returns, and their major need is for de-fleet and storage facilities that complement our remarketing services.

“This year we have been selling 100% of our HGVs and close to 50% of our LCVs online. Our new physical de-fleet and storage hub footprint across the UK ensures we deliver a scalable solution that meets our customers’ needs and underpins our long-term growth.”

This strategic announcement follows a decision taken in Q4 2017 to move the HGV business to an online only model.

Bell added: “There is no doubt that the retail and wholesale sectors will face significant digital disruption in the years ahead. It is key that we take decisive action that ensures we remain relevant to our industry.

"Manheim’s revised strategy gives its customers a real choice and our investment demonstrates our commitment to this important part of the CV sector.”