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Vanaways has released its latest podcast episode featuring Paul Hickman, Co-Director of Fastfit Nationwide Ltd, in a wide ranging conversation exploring the transformation of vehicle conversions, fleet solutions, and the fast moving landscape of the LCV sector.
Hosted by Marketing Executive Hannah Hill, the episode offers a behind the scenes look at FastFit’s journey from its origins as a windscreen repair business in the 1990s to a nationwide provider of specialist vehicle conversions, fleet fit outs, and security solutions. Today, the business operates across multiple departments with around 50 employees, with teams largely self sufficient and focused on delivering consistent, high quality output.
From windscreen repairs to full fleet solutions
Paul Hickman explains how FastFit’s evolution was shaped both by opportunity and necessity. While the company originally focused on automotive glass replacement, it gradually expanded into accessories such as tow bars, alarms, and in car technology. A major turning point came during the 2009 to 2010 recession, when the business pivoted more heavily into fleet work after a significant work provider liquidation created a gap in revenue.
That shift led FastFit to actively grow relationships with dealers, lease companies, brokers, and fleet operators, including large organisations managing extensive van fleets. The result was a more stable and scalable model that continues to underpin the business today.
Partnership working and communication
A key theme throughout the discussion is the importance of collaboration, particularly between FastFit and Vanaways. Paul emphasises that strong partnerships rely on communication and honesty, especially when delivering complex vehicle builds with multiple stakeholders involved.
He explains that much of the work happens behind the scenes, from gathering detailed operational requirements to ensuring final vehicle specifications match real world use. According to Paul, breakdowns in communication are often where supplier relationships fall short, while transparency helps prevent issues before they escalate.
Real world vehicle challenges
The conversation also highlights the common disconnect between what customers request and what they actually need in day to day operations. Paul notes that many businesses are not fully clear on their requirements at the point of ordering, which makes early collaboration essential.
One example shared involved a large energy sector contract where incorrect base vehicles had been purchased before the conversion specification was finalised. FastFit worked closely with the client and Vanaways to resolve the issue, adapting the build and creating a long term improvement in the planning process for future orders.
Security pressures and rising theft
Vehicle and tool theft remains a major concern across the UK LCV sector. Paul describes it as increasingly organised and opportunistic, with incidents occurring even in public, daytime locations such as supermarket car parks.
As a result, many vehicles now require enhanced security measures as standard, including deadlocks, immobilisers, and tracking systems. He also highlights the frustration felt by customers who must invest further in security after already spending significantly on their vans and equipment.
How vans have become mobile workspaces
Another major shift discussed is the changing role of vans themselves. Once seen purely as tools, they are now viewed as mobile workspaces where engineers and technicians often spend the majority of their working day.
Hickman explains that investing in well equipped, comfortable vehicles has a direct impact on productivity, morale, and care for equipment, ultimately improving performance and reducing vehicle wear.
Cost pressures and smarter specification
With rising vehicle and conversion costs, businesses are increasingly cautious about specification choices. Paul notes that short term savings can often lead to higher long term costs, particularly when vehicles are under specified or poorly equipped for their intended use.
He highlights a growing trend of businesses reusing and transferring existing equipment between vans to reduce expenditure, as well as reassessing options such as shelving materials, inverter sizes, and onboard power systems.
Electrification and industry change
The discussion also explores the rise of electric vans. Paul estimates that FastFit’s workload is now roughly split between electric and diesel vehicles, with EV adoption increasing significantly, particularly among large courier and delivery fleets.
While early electric commercial vehicles were limited in range and capability, improvements in technology and infrastructure are driving wider adoption. However, challenges remain around payload, design integration, and workshop adaptation for conversions such as seating and internal fit outs.
Looking ahead
As the industry continues to evolve, Paul points to electrification, lightweight materials, and smarter onboard systems as key areas of development. He also notes that sustainability, including increased use of recyclable materials and more efficient manufacturing processes, is becoming more important across the supply chain.
Despite rapid change, he believes traditional diesel vans will remain part of the landscape for many years due to cost, capability, and operational needs.
Strengthening the Vanaways partnership
FastFit has worked with Vanaways for around three to four years, supporting a wide range of vehicle supply and conversion projects. Paul describes the relationship as straightforward and collaborative, built on clear communication and mutual trust.
He adds that the partnership has been especially effective on large scale fleet projects where coordination, timing, and technical input are critical to delivering vehicles ready for immediate operational use.
👀 The full episode of the Vanaways podcast with Paul Hickman is out now...
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