For independent funeral directors, reliability, presentation, and professionalism are essential when serving families. This is precisely why Superior UK was pleased to deliver a quality used Jaguar XJ hearse to Martin Grinnell Funeral Services.
Based in Evesham, Worcestershire, Martin Grinnell Funeral Services is the only independent family-run funeral business in the town. Founded in 2017 by well-respected local funeral director Martin Grinnell, the company has continued to serve families across Worcestershire and the surrounding counties since his passing in 2021, with his son, Reece, now proudly at the helm.
Reece explained, “My father had worked as a funeral director in Evesham for around 30 years before his passing. In 2017, when he opened his own firm, I worked alongside him from day one, helping to build the business, so it means a lot to continue what he started and provide the same level of care to local families.”
As the business continues to grow, Reece recognised it was time to replace the company’s ageing Jaguar XJ hearse.
“We already had a Jaguar XJ limousine in the fleet that was still in perfect condition, but the hearse was getting older and becoming unreliable,” said Reece. “When families are relying on you, that’s simply not a risk you can take. We’ve always loved the Jaguar brand and ideally wanted the newer Jaguar XJ shape for our next hearse.”
After seeing Superior UK’s range of quality used vehicles in the FSJ, Reece reached out to Superior Sales Manager Jon Helm. “We found that Superior UK seemed to be the only funeral vehicle company with used Jaguars in immediate stock,” Reece explained. “I called Jon, and he had the perfect Jaguar XJ hearse ready to go. We were thrilled.”
Superior UK prepared the late-model Wilcox Jaguar XJ hearse and ensured that the vehicle underwent a comprehensive service inspection before delivery.
Jon Helm said, “Reece and Martin Grinnell Funeral Services are exactly the type of independent funeral business we love to support. Reece had a clear vision for the vehicle he wanted, and fortunately, we had an excellent example available. We made sure the hearse was fully prepared and serviced to the highest standards before it left us.”
The vehicle immediately impressed upon arrival in Evesham. “The hearse is fantastic,” said Reece. “It runs beautifully and was presented in perfect condition, ready to go straight to work. In fact, it completed eight funerals in its very first week.”
Alongside supplying the vehicle, Superior UK also collaborated with McManus Financial Services to help make the investment more affordable for the independent funeral director.
“Fleet vehicles are one of the biggest investments a funeral business can make after acquiring premises,” explained Reece. “A premium used Jaguar hearse of this calibre always felt slightly out of reach, but with the finance options available through McManus, it became achievable for us.”
Reece also praised the customer service received throughout the process. “Everything was seamless from start to finish,” he said. “Superior UK made the whole process incredibly easy, and they were honest and professional throughout. We couldn’t fault either the quality of the vehicle or the service we received, and we would highly recommend them to anyone looking for used funeral vehicles.”
Jon added, “There continues to be strong demand for quality used Jaguar funeral vehicles, and we’re proud to be able to source and supply exceptional vehicles that help independent funeral directors invest confidently in their fleets.”