Ten years on from Construction Industry News’ last visit, CPD Bodies has undergone a significant transformation. Once a modest operation with 14 employees, it now employs 84 people across 36 acres of production and storage facilities and has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality commercial vehicle conversions across the UK.
The company serves a broad customer base, from sole traders needing one or two vehicles to large fleets operated by councils, traffic management and construction companies. Throughout this growth, CPD Bodies has remained anchored by founder and Managing Director Cathal Doocey, with Operations Director Dave Maguire and Production Planning Director, Liam Doocey continuing to refine the production processes that support the company’s quality and fast turnaround times.
What has evolved is the scale and commercial maturity of the business. Over the past 18 months, CPD Bodies has expanded its leadership structure with the appointment of Commercial Director Tom Pearson, whose role is to drive strategy in a market that is changing rapidly. The company has also developed its sales capability with specialists from organisations focused on fleet supply, leasing and commercial vehicle sales. Their experience is applicable to a market still dominated by diesel and petrol and is adaptable as external pressure pushes operators toward more sustainable solutions. As Cathal explains: “Our ethos hasn’t changed. Quality, customer care and speed of delivery remain our priorities, but we’ve increased our output tenfold by refining how we work and adapting so customers can be confident in their choice, whether it is a bespoke fit on an automatic panel van or ensuring their EV 4.5T conversion is fit for purpose.”
Repeat business continues to be a major contributor to growth, particularly across vehicle leasing, infrastructure and utilities where regular fleet renewals create ongoing demand. “Our expansion has been driven by consistent leadership, strong customer relationships and an in-depth understanding of the market,” adds David Maguire.
CPD Bodies’ in-house model allows for personalised service and short lead times, something that sets it apart from many OEMs. In fact, several OEMs bring vehicles to CPD Bodies for conversion, a testament to the company’s technical expertise.
Investment in people is matched by investment in infrastructure. While the wider EV market stabilises, CPD Bodies is preparing for future demand. Its new off-grid workshop, due for completion in early 2026, will be fully powered by onsite solar storage and is believed to be the first of its kind in the commercial conversions sector. The facility will support a growing volume of electric panel van conversions and will also include a dedicated EV showroom and visitor centre. By investing early, the company aims to give operators confidence that their electric conversions will meet the same standards of reliability and turnaround speed as its diesel and petrol work.
CPD Bodies operates nationwide across three main sites: a production facility in Stockton and two vehicle storage locations in Middlesbrough and Stockton. This footprint supports rapid response times for customers throughout the UK.
Like many businesses in the automotive sector, CPD Bodies continues to navigate external pressures, including fluctuations in raw material availability, global market shifts and public sector budget constraints. As a supplier member of Hire Association Europe and a representative on its Executive Board for Supply Chain, the company plays an active role in shaping best practice across the industry. Despite the challenges, CPD Bodies remains resilient and focused on its long-term strategy. As Tom Person notes: “We are a dynamic business and can flex to meet customer demand. Whether a client needs a single vehicle or 101, we have the capability to deliver.”
With a strong foundation, a clear direction and a motivated team, CPD Bodies is well positioned for continued growth. The next 12 months will be critical as the company works toward ambitious EV targets and consolidates its investment in people and infrastructure. The focus, however, remains constant: delivering quality, speed and outstanding customer service. These values have defined CPD Bodies’ journey so far and continue to set the standard for what comes next.