In the rapidly growing vehicle wrapping market, Spandex is proud to support the needs of professionals across the spectrum who are pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation, including niche applications.
An example of this support in action is Creative Vehicle Wrapping (CVW), a company that specializes in refuse collection vehicle wraps and is redefining how communities perceive the vehicles that serve them through inspiring designs. Founded in 2020 by industry expert Jonathan Thomas, CVW was born from a bold vision: to turn everyday refuse vehicles into “the world’s largest slow-moving billboards.” With over 25 years of experience across different parts of the waste industry (from driving and maintenance to the sales and marketing of refuse vehicles), Jonathan saw an opportunity to elevate the visual impact of these essential vehicles.
Today, CVW offers a one-stop shop, from concept to installation – wrapping everything from individual trucks and commercial fleets to waste bins and road sweepers.
A Partnership Built on Expertise and Flexibility
The beginning of any business is challenging, so from the outset, CVW sought a supplier that matched its commitment to quality and customer service, and that also offered deep sector knowledge. Operating in a niche and evolving market also meant the company faced unique challenges, including unpredictable job scales and complex vehicle specifications. As Jonathan explains:
“There was a steep learning curve. Vehicle specification sheets for wrapping and detailing passenger cars are easy to come by. However, for specialist trade vehicles, such as refuse trucks, sweepers and other plant equipment, the job becomes much more complex with a plethora of different configurations and intricate extra details that can detract from the end result that you’re trying to create. In addition, time and resources can vary significantly from job to job. You can have anything from a single intricately wrapped truck to a fleet of 200, making it hard to plan.”
Spandex stepped in as a trusted partner, offering not just products but tailored support. When CVW launched during the pandemic restrictions of 2020, even setting up a business account was a hurdle. Spandex’s Key Account Manager, David Askew, worked closely with Jonathan to establish training, ensuring the company got the support they needed. As David explains:
“The real value that we, as Spandex, bring to businesses like Creative Vehicle Wrapping lies in the expertise we bring to the businesses we serve. These were very different vehicles from the day-to-day vehicles most wrappers are used to and therefore advice was needed on different wrap materials, their benefits, challenges and advantages. I provided online training to Jonathan and members of the CVW team during the COVID-19 restrictions, as I couldn’t visit. To do so, almost daily phone calls were required to talk through the complicated applications at the beginning (early 2020).”
This customer-first approach laid the foundation for long-term growth for both the company and the relationship.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
Despite the pandemic, CVW’s concept quickly gained traction. Local authorities began using refuse vehicles to communicate key messages about sustainability and waste management to their communities. These vehicles became powerful tools for public engagement, wrapped in vibrant, meaningful designs that made an impact. Boosted by Spandex’s deep product knowledge and media solutions, CVW was able to overcome the hurdles brought by niche applications, testing and selecting the right wraps for each application together, to ensure durability, ease of installation, and visual excellence.
The Right Materials for the Right Message
To deliver on its promise of bold, impactful wraps, CVW relies on top-tier materials. Spandex provides access to leading brands like Avery Dennison, Arlon and more, offering everything from color change films to cast PVC films with air release technology. CVW’s team is fully trained and certified in applying these specialist wraps, ensuring every installation meets the highest standards.
Investing in the Future
CVW continues to lead the way in high-quality commercial vehicle wrapping. The company has invested heavily in its facilities, upgrading its 9,000 sq. ft. premises with climate control systems for optimal installation conditions and a new slip-resistant, dust-repellent floor.
They’ve also doubled their printing capacity with new equipment from Spandex, enabling even more impactful campaigns for commercial fleets. And with ISO9001 and ISO14001 certifications under their belt, CVW is committed to quality and environmental responsibility.
A Relationship That Drives Growth
When asked why he continues to work with Spandex, Jonathan responded:
“We have more than a customer-supplier relationship. I have created a relationship with my Spandex Key Account Manager where we work closely to support my business needs for growth, now and in the future. What else could I ask for?”
