Where does White Van Man' buy that ubiquitous vehicle which pounds the highways and byways of Britain?

You would presume that it works in the same way as buying a car so a visit is made to a showroom, a van is chosen and the deal is done.

But where customer service is a commonly advertised theme when organising the family transport, one new business claims small firms often have to bear the brunt of poor treatment when it comes to purchasing the workhorse on which their trade depends.

Think Automotive, a new company based at Upper Heyford, promises customers a level of service they would normally experience at a private car dealership.

It is run by a group of four Peter Jackman, Maria Murray, Geoff Bateman and Alison Ashley, who have 75 years' experience in the industry between them.

Sales and marketing director Ms Ashley said: "We saw a gap in the commercial vehicle market. Our research showed retail buyers and small businesses were not enjoying the same level of service as regular car buyers."

What makes Think Automotive different, according to Ms Ashley, is that it provides a one-stop shop for potential buyers who want the best deal but do not have the time to shop around. They place an order and their chosen vehicle is tracked down.

They can then choose the best van for their needs and budget from a selection.

Fleet purchase is also possible up to about 75 vehicles, although Think Automotive's philosophy is not to deal with large numbers, to ensure service remains personal.

Ms Ashley added: "We will help out with fleet management as well, and advise customers on the best option."

The company also has a small number of vehicles to buy or hire, complete with a collection and delivery service. Stock is kept small to help customers choose the type of vehicle they want before it is sourced, although if they want to buy the one they see, then a deal can be struck immediately. In effect, Think Automotive acts more like a broker between the customer and the trade.

Models are carefully selected for quality and value before being inspected by experts at vehicle logistics group Walon, which happens to be next door to Think Automotive.

And if time is really short, the whole process from vehicle selection to delivery can be carried out online with the back-up of a 12-month guarantee.

The company also offers a card-based referral scheme. Anyone buying from Think Automotive as a result of a referral will receive £25 of gift vouchers and the referrer will be sent a cheque for £50.

Ms Ashley said: "It is worthwhile for us. It is a very competitive market and we have to keep fresh."

Contact: 0870 236 8022, www.thinkautomotive.co.uk