They may just be the most driven couple in Runcorn and business is really accelerating – so much so that they are looking to take on two new apprentices.
Husband and wife team Dave and Claire Barlow run DC Conversions and DC Campervan Sales and have just moved to a bigger unit on Arkwright Court, Astmoor Industrial Estate to keep up with demand.
Dave converts the vans to fit the customers’ requirements, Claire is in charge of sales.
“It’s amazing.,” said Dave. “We are so busy that we’ve had to move to get more space – and may even be looking at expanding again soon.
“We have also been in discussions with Riverside College in Widnes,” added Claire.
“We are looking at taking on two apprentices by May. One to help Dave because he’s so busy, and another to help me on the admin side of things.”
As part of the recent expansion the couple launched DC Camper Sales selling newly converted new and used vans. Claire has a very keen eye for a van and uses it to find the right vehicle for the customer.
“Dave’s work is totally bespoke,” said Claire. “Every campervan he creates is unique and individual to suit the customer’s needs. One of our clients entered Iron man competitions and Dave embossed the logo onto the carpet of the van as a surprise.”
“It’s the handmade details that make the difference. Dave makes everything himself. People can choose whether they want all drawers or drawers cupboards and wardrobes. He also does full gas and electrical fittings and Bluetooth systems that can be controlled by a mobile phone.”
Neither Dave nor Claire went to university. Dave did an apprenticeship and Claire did a YTS course and went straight into work. Which is one of the reasons they want to help other youngsters get a foot on the work ladder.
She said: “The university route isn’t for everyone. I remember when my school friends went to Uni, my career just flew. We are very keen to put something back into the community and give others the same kind of start we had.”
The couple, who live in Halton and have two children, like to get away from it all in their own van and regularly attend VW shows throughout the year up and down the country. They are planning a trip to take the family to Euro Disney this year.
Their dream trip would be to drive across Europe to Croatia
But they’ve got no plans to drive off into the sunset just yet..
“We love it here and feel really proud to be a part of this community on Arkwright Court and Astmoor,” said Dave.