Nella Cutlery Services adopts Webfleet tech to improve fleet safety

Nella Cutlery Services has invested in an integrated telematics, driver safety and camera solution from Webfleet to improve driver performance, reduce vehicle downtime and strengthen fleet management across its UK van operations.

The family-owned business, which celebrates its 125th anniversary this year, supplies and sharpens professional knives for chefs, butchers and food manufacturers across the UK.

The new technology will provide Nella with greater visibility of vehicle conditions, driver behaviour and incidents, helping the company take a more proactive approach to fleet safety and maintenance.

Francesco Bondonno, Director of Operations at Nella, said: “Our vehicles are central to the service we provide, so keeping them on the road and our drivers safe is critical.

“Webfleet gives us much better visibility across the fleet. We’re using it to understand driver performance, keep a closer eye on vehicle conditions and get a better picture of what’s happened when incidents occur.”

Webfleet’s OptiDrive 360 in-cab feedback system enables Nella to monitor driving behaviours, including speeding, harsh braking and driver distraction, while identifying opportunities for additional driver coaching.

Vehicle monitoring data also allows the fleet team to detect potential mechanical issues earlier, including signs of gearbox or clutch wear, helping prevent more serious faults and reduce unplanned vehicle downtime.

The solution includes forward-facing and driver-facing cameras, with video footage and crash data accessible through the Webfleet platform. This provides evidence to support insurance claims and helps establish the circumstances surrounding road incidents.

In addition, Webfleet’s CO2 reporting tools enable Nella to monitor vehicle emissions and identify driving behaviours that contribute to higher fuel consumption.

The investment also supports Nella’s wider sustainability approach, which includes refurbishing and resurfacing chopping boards for professional kitchens to extend their working life.

Bondonno added: “We may have grown rapidly in recent years, but we are still fundamentally a family business and we care deeply about the welfare of each and every employee.

“The fit with Webfleet was obvious, with both businesses placing a high value on people, service and long-term relationships.”