Truck body builder goes for growth on integration

£20 million JCP, the Aldridge West Midlands-based box van and curtain-sided truck bodies manufacturer, is due to go live with an Exel Efacs ERP system in January. It’s part of a major investment programme that also sees new machines and robotics and multi-site reorganisation. Efacs will replace the company’s Opera system, adding integrated production management. It will also link directly to JCP’s Solid Edge CAD system, while downstream, automated shop floor data capture systems are being added. JCP CEO Nigel Maris expects the new system to speed everything from estimating and quoting to production flow of custom builds down its refitted four-lane fabrication workshop. “Efacs will integrate and manage the whole process, from design to build to laying down the base, to bulkhead and sides, rear frame, roof, electrics, and interior fit to rear closure, to finally putting the body onto the chassis.” Steve Tandy, financial director, adds that JCP has increased output by 20%, now producing over 6,000 truck bodies a year, and is looking for another 20% next year from its investments. “Along with our investment in a bespoke robotics system, Efacs … will underpin that growth.” The company assembles one-off bodies as well as high volume orders, and the new system will be expected to cope with all product variables. It will also need to manage JCP’s same-day delivery service, which covers design, build and finish of custom vehicles.