Personal touch gives tiny firm edge over its rivals

Jo Wallis, of Warnerbus Minibus Solutions, in Castle Hill Road, Totternhoe, was involved in an horrific car crash and had to spend time in a wheelchair.

“I was in a car crushed between two lorries,” said Jo, pictured, right. “The surgeons said there was a 10 per cent chance I would walk again.

“I was in such pain that it was a chance I had to take.” After a long recuperation, Jo understands the issues that need to be tackled as a part of the business.

Warnerbus creates bespoke minibuses that can be used by people with all kinds of physical and mental disabilities, under the leadership of production director Andrew Wallis.

“There are other minibus providers in the market but what sets us apart is that we provide bespoke solutions depending on the needs of the customers,” said Jo.

Warnerbus has such a great reputation in its industry that it can compete with much bigger manufacturers. It has recently been approved as a supplier for the Help The Heroes charity working with soldiers hurt in wars overseas.

“It’s really moving working with some of those people who have no arms or legs,” said Jo, who was hopeful of another big agreement soon.

Warnerbus also works with local charities and has a 24 hour a day, seven day a week commitment to its customers.

“If something goes wrong, as things do, then our users need to know we will be there to help them,” said Jo. “Our suppliers share this commitment.”

Warnerbus has been recognised many times in local awards, not least the Rising Stars Bedfordshire and Luton Business Excellence Awards.

It picked up the customer care excellence accolade and was highly commended in entrepreneur and small business categories.

See Natalee Hazelwood’s video profile by visiting www.lutontoday.co.uk/news/business