HINO Australia is addressing the national shortage of skilled heavy vehicle mechanics by recruiting 15 experienced technicians from the Philippines, while also commencing a second round of international recruitment to support its 65 dealerships and specialist service centres around the country.

The plan is paying off as continued development of the local branch of the business places Hino Australia at the forefront worldwide with global leadership in parts and service. The effort has again been recognised by Hino Motors Limited in Japan.

This is the 14th consecutive year that Hino Australia has won the Parts Department of the Year Award, while also claiming the Service Department of the Year Award for the 11th straight occasion.

“To once again be recognised with these two awards, plus the Parts Excellence Award, is thanks to the outstanding people we have working to support Hino customers here in Australia,” said Hino Australia vice president – product support Greg Bleasel.

“The last couple of years have been a challenge for all of Australia, but the hard work and dedication of the Hino dealer network, plus head office, continues to shine through.

“Despite lockdowns, our dealerships continued to provide essential preventative maintenance and breakdown repairs via flexible service options including courtesy drop-off and pick-ups, extending workshop hours and providing remote servicing options.

“Our commitment to our capped price service program continues to give certainty to Hino owners, who can forecast costs over the life of their trucks.”

In late 2019, Hino Australia initiated its first international recruitment drive, which resulted in the employment of 20 skilled technicians, whose arrival was ultimately delayed by pandemic-related border closures.

“We currently have 15 of the 20 technicians working in dealerships around the country, with the remainder due to arrive in coming months,” said  Hino Australia general manager – service and customer support Gus Belanszky.

“The enthusiasm, knowledge and skills of the technicians has been impressive so far, and they will all undergo extensive training at Hino Australia’s headquarters to provide them with all the expertise necessary to meet our exacting standards.”

Another cornerstone to Hino Australia’s success has been the recent revitalisation of the company’s distribution channels.

“Reinforcing our commitment to our customers, during 2021 we opened a new state-of-the-art Parts Distribution Centre (PDC), essentially doubling capacity, which has improved all facets of the supply chain,” said Mr Bleasel.

“With its expanded capacity, enhanced storage solutions and improved warehouse efficiencies, the PDC is a driving force behind improved parts delivery to all dealers nationwide.

“This new PDC facility demonstrates our commitment to supporting customer expectations and future business growth – we have seen record-breaking parts sales growth year-on-year of 12 per cent.

“We are proud of these awards, and we are committed to continuing to improve our service to both our dealerships and customers.”

By Peter Barnwell