
Euro Commercials is pleased to welcome Joe Barry as our new Head of Van Sales, bringing more than 30 years of experience in the automotive industry and extensive knowledge of both passenger cars and commercial vehicles. Joe joins Euro Commercials with a wealth of experience across sales, finance and business management, and will play a key role in developing the dealership’s new and used Mercedes-Benz Vans operations.
Joe began his career in the automotive industry after moving to Wales in the early 1990s. Having previously worked in retail, he came across an opportunity in car sales through an advert in the local newspaper.
He applied for the role and began his automotive career, going on to work with leading manufacturers including Audi, Volkswagen and Ford.
“I fell into the automotive industry by chance,” says Joe.
“I moved to Wales in the early 90s and my background was in shop retail. I could not find a job, so I saw an advert in the local papers advertising car sales opportunities. I applied and got the role. I fell in love with automotive sales and have loved every minute of it.”
After building significant experience in passenger car sales, Joe was given the opportunity to manage a Volkswagen Van Centre. It was a move that allowed him to broaden his knowledge of the commercial vehicle sector and discover a new area of the automotive industry.
“I wanted to broaden my development and knowledge in the commercial arena, and I must say I have never looked back.”
One of the aspects Joe enjoys most about van sales is the technical difference between passenger cars and commercial vehicles.
Unlike buying a car, where considerations can often focus on personal use, comfort and specification, selecting the right van is closely connected to how a business operates.
Every customer has different requirements, whether that is load area, payload, weight capacity or the type of work the vehicle will be used for.
“The technical differences between car and van sales make it such an interesting environment to work in,” says Joe.
“All of our customers have different needs for their vehicles, such as what load area and weight capacity they require. Every customer will be different.”
This customer-focused approach will be central to Joe’s role at Euro Commercials, where the aim is to help businesses find the right Mercedes-Benz Van for their individual requirements.
Joe joins Euro Commercials at an exciting time for the commercial vehicle industry, with the van market undergoing significant change.
The growth of electric vans is one of the biggest developments Joe has seen throughout his career, alongside increased competition from new manufacturers entering the market.
He believes that the continued growth of electric van sales will help businesses become more confident in making the transition from internal combustion engine vehicles to battery electric vehicles.
“I think that with more electric vans being sold, this will reassure and encourage more businesses to purchase,” says Joe.
He also expects the market to become increasingly competitive, with new brands entering the sector and further growth in electric van adoption.
“The market is heading for more competition from new brands and going fully electrified within the next few years.”
For businesses considering the transition to electric vans, Joe believes that education and understanding will be essential. The Euro Commercials team is working with customers to demonstrate how current battery electric vans can meet their operational requirements, including considerations around vehicle range and charging infrastructure.
Joe’s immediate priorities are clear: finish 2026 strongly while continuing to grow the used van operation.
His extensive experience, combined with his understanding of the changing commercial vehicle market, will support Euro Commercials as it continues to develop its Mercedes-Benz Vans offering and strengthen its relationships with businesses across the region.
Outside of work, Joe enjoys travelling and spending time with his family. Having travelled to many places, he values the opportunity to explore new destinations while enjoying time with those closest to him.
For businesses looking for their next van, Joe believes Euro Commercials can provide the expertise, convenience and support they need.
“If you are looking for a professional, one-stop shop and seamless purchase, then look nowhere else. We can take the stress out of servicing your vehicle whilst you sleep.”
Welcome to Euro Commercials, Joe.
Euro Commercials is proud to recognise the dedication and experience of several long-serving members of its South West Parts team, who are celebrating an impressive 17 years of service. Their careers have helped keep Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles on the road across the South West, supporting customers with expert parts knowledge and exceptional service.
Euro Commercials is celebrating a significant milestone this month as Aftersales Director Barry Kidd marks 40 years of service with the business, reflecting a career built on commitment, adaptability and strong customer relationships.
At Euro Commercials, we're proud to have experienced professionals leading our aftersales teams, ensuring our customers receive the highest level of service every day. We'd like to introduce Ian Brown, our Service Manager at Euro Commercials Cardiff.
Euro Commercials is proud to introduce Horace as its Head of Parts, bringing extensive experience across engineering, automotive, and commercial vehicle sectors to further strengthen the company’s parts operations...