George, Western Cape – In the competitive world of commercial vehicles, few dealerships can claim both market leadership and deep community roots. Shorts Commercial, established in 1988, has achieved exactly that—transforming from a regional player into the Western Cape’s number one UD Trucks dealership. But beyond sales figures, Shorts has built a reputation on partnerships, innovation, and a people-first philosophy that sets it apart.
From Sixth Place to Market Leader
When Grant joined Shorts in 2006, the dealership ranked sixth in its Area of Responsibility. Today, it stands proudly at the top. The pivotal moment came in 2015, when Grant became Dealer Principal, sharpening the dealership’s focus on customer relationships, service quality, and long-term vision.
“We’ve worked very hard to get to number one,” Grant reflects. “It’s thanks to a team that goes the extra mile every single day to ensure customer satisfaction.”
More Than a Dealership
Shorts Commercial isn’t just a place to buy a truck—it’s a one-stop service hub designed to keep operators moving. From panel beating and a state-of-the-art paint booth to bespoke truck body manufacturing, brake testing, wheel alignment, and 24-hour roadside assistance, the dealership minimizes downtime and maximizes value.
By housing all these services under one roof, Shorts ensures transport operators have a reliable partner at every stage of their journey.
Powered by People
The dealership’s greatest asset is its team. Many employees boast over two decades of service, a testament to loyalty and shared purpose. Among them, sales consultants Billy Flattery and Carolize Shorts, Parts Manager Bramley Mabee, Aftersales Manager Fredrick Muller, Foreman Joseph Short, and Panel Beating Manager Rudi Olivier stand out for their dedication.
“There’s an expectation on every staff member to go the extra mile,” Grant explains. “It’s not just a slogan—it’s who we are.”
Relationships First
At Shorts, the focus goes beyond trucks. Sales teams regularly visit customer sites to understand operations before offering tailored solutions.
“We don’t just sell a truck—we sell a relationship,” says Billy.
Aftersales support is equally robust. With dependable parts availability, skilled technicians, and even relicensing services, Shorts ensures that customers stay on the road with confidence and peace of mind.
Rooted in the Community
Shorts Commercial is woven into the Western Cape community. From supporting local initiatives to servicing industries like the world’s largest ostrich farming sector, the dealership has earned trust that transcends business transactions. Its commitment to the community reflects a broader vision: success is measured not only in sales but in the positive impact on people’s lives.
Looking Ahead
Even as market leaders, Shorts shows no sign of slowing down. Plans are underway to expand the truck body manufacturing division and strengthen strategic partnerships, further solidifying its position in the industry.
“For us, success is seeing both our staff and our customers happy,” says Grant. “We’re excited about what the future holds.”
A Dealer That Goes the Extra Mile
Shorts Commercial is more than the Western Cape’s leading UD Trucks dealership. It is a story of resilience, growth, and people-powered success. By placing customers and community at the centre, Shorts proves that when relationships are prioritised, leadership and longevity naturally follow.
