Surface finishing specialist Farécla has launched a £250,000 free mobile training scheme which it hopes will save its 400 UK distributors time and money.

The programme launches with a fleet of three Mercedes-Benz Sprinter training vans, each operated by an NVQ-qualified vehicle painter and equipped to demonstrate the full range of Farécla products.

These will visit bodyshops to teach best methods to employees. Training in third party products used by the company will also be available from the vans.

The company claims the scheme will save its UK distributors several million pounds by minimising wasted time and materials. Most importantly, it avoids having to lose staff for off-site training, which Farécla claims can be off-putting for its clients.

Jason Payne, head of marketing, said: “It is all very well sending someone a brochure or DVD, but there is no substitute for face-to-face advice and a first-hand demonstration of how everything works.

“In an era where the common answer to many problems is ‘have you visited our website?’ we believe that by offering this personal touch, our customers will get the best from our products and the customer will get an even better quality of service.”

Farécla, which already operates an in-house training facility at its head quarters in Ware, recently renewed its IMI accreditation as an approved training establishment.

All training carried out through the support vans will count towards professional training and continuous professional development.