Manbat has reported a 'fantastic' response from the aftermarket to its control of the Lucas battery brand.

Manbat was awarded the distribution contract following a tender invitation in the New Year and it became the only source of supply for the Lucas brand on 1st March. The agreement includes all Lucas automotive and commercial vehicle batteries for the UK and Eire.

Roger Pemberton, executive chairman of Manbat said: "The Lucas name has walked hand-in-hand with the development of the UK's automotive and commercial vehicle industry since the beginning of the twentieth century. With this degree of history, not only is Manbat excited to play a part n the next chapter of the story, but also mindful of the responsibility that it has with this much-revered brand. As a result Manbat will spend time and
resources to re-establish the Lucas battery brand as a quality product, worthy to carry the name."

During the first full month of the agreement Manbat supplied considerably more batteries across its entire branch network than it originally forecast. In addition, April sales look strong, with a month-on-month increase after only half a month of trading.