The Portadown-based auction complex says it's anticipating hundreds of serious buyers will turn out to bid for the commercial vehicles, most of which originate from the UK as vendors seek to capitalise on the improved CAP rates currently being delivered by the Irisk market.

Commenting on the demand for such vehicles, Richard McFetridge, commercial auction manager, at Wilsons Auctions, said: 'UK-originated commercial product is highly sought after in this market. Prior to this auction buyers in this market would have had to shoulder the expense of travelling to the UK to source and pick up stock. With this comes the logistical implication of transport and, of course, time away for their main source of income – selling the vehicles.'

Speaking of the logic of Wilsons Auctions' service of bringing desired vehicles to buyers without the inconvenience and cost of travelling to the UK, he added: 'It's a no brainer for us. Vendors will get smart returns for their product as our buyers will seek to take advantage of the opportunity. Irish buyers know us as the commercial fleet specialists in this market and trust we will deliver the stock they need through our relationships with UK vendors. Our existing UK vendors see the benefits this brings as they already sell stock to Irish-based buyers from their UK based operations; by supplying stock direct to us they can capitalise on a much bigger Irish market.'