Family business Minera Roof Trusses has come a long way since its humble beginnings back in 1977. Founded by Eric Roberts and now run by his grandson Marc, the company sits just outside Wrexham in Minera. Perfectly placed near major motorway networks, making them ideally located for nationwide deliveries.
Over the years, Minera has become known across the construction industry for its expertise in the design, manufacture, and supply of roof trusses. Their reputation for quality craftsmanship and professional service is something the team clearly takes pride in.
Back in 1985, Minera made waves by becoming the first company in the roof truss industry to introduce a “just in time” delivery service — a promise that’s kept builders, architects, engineers, and homeowners coming back for over four decades.
Few people know the fleet better than Steve Jones, who’s been with Minera for an impressive 24 years. During that time, he’s driven a range of trucks; from an ERF EC6 235 to two MAN TGMs (2008 and 2014 models). But his pride and joy these days is the DAF XF 450 4x2 long wheelbase rigid, which joined the fleet in 2020.
Steve’s passion for both his work and his truck is clear. “I initially ordered the first lot accessories separate for it and I styled them all myself. I got a Dutch headboard, stone-guard, two spotlights, bottom splitter, beacons and loads of grill lights amber/red split & talmu lights under the bumper. Everything was ordered from McCallum's Truck-styling who I have ordered from for years, as they always offer a great service.”
Five years sine the truck joined the fleet it still looks every bit as sharp as the day it rolled onto the yard. Since then, Steve’s continued to add a few personal touches. “After the 1st lot of modifications I wasn't planning on adding stuff, but always something to add I guess. I decided to add bull bar as I've always wanted a one & this one came up and I just had to buy it.”
The bull bar, sourced from Holland, now features two Ledson Pollux spotlights to match those on the sun visor, complete with amber covers. The Dutch-style headboard has been upgraded too, now sporting amber lights and a bold new border.
Steve’s truck has evolved into something of a showpiece, complete with a roof rack featuring two show crates of lager. “I just had to have as it looks so cool with the flat roof versions. (Dutch style).”
Lighting is a big deal and something Steve hasn’t held back on. Amber DRLs, Jimbars perimeter 3-in-1 lights, side bars with amber LEDs and red downlights, plus new Truckstyle front mudflaps replacing the originals complete the look. Inside, the cab’s had a revamp too, with Special Interior curtains and custom floor mats from Dama Truck Interiors in Holland.
When it comes to performance, Steve couldn’t be happier. “I would say it's been one of our best trucks we have ever had! It has wanted for nothing and is reliable. The only thing that has let it down are batteries, which could be to do with the million lights...” he laughs.
Minera operates its own fleet of specialist trucks, each one carefully adapted for the unique demands of transporting roof trusses, attic trusses, and metal web joists. From rigid trucks to articulated trailers, every vehicle has been fine-tuned for the business’s needs.
The mixed fleet now includes five trucks — three 18-tonne trailers with extra-long wheelbases, designed to carry trusses upside down, and two 12-tonne trucks for smaller loads like floor joists. The company’s distinctive trailers are instantly recognisable on the road and are practical too, allowing trusses to be delivered as a whole, saving customers valuable time on-site.
He adds, “A lot of people try to put you off DAF but this has been a great truck, hence why I look after it so much as I don't want to change it anytime soon. We thought the last of the old batch are usually better. and its definitely worked out that way! Plus I'm old skool so still like my ERF's and this reminds me a bit of that square boxy cab.”
“I'd definitely recommend the full air too as its such a good comfy ride would never go back now. Most of our jobs are still one off jobs or little sites (anything awkward shapes and sizes) so this is ideal for navigating them.
Work at Minera has been as busy as ever, especially with the company’s recent expansion into timber frame production, complementing their floor joist and roof truss work. They’re even moving to a larger site next door, which could mean more trucks in the future.
Steve’s had to skip the show circuit last year explaining “I've been too busy & the truck is always loaded Fri for Sun/Mon so I've not bothered. The truck has won several awards over the last 5 years though.”
That hasn’t stopped the truck from being well known locally. Many recognise it from Wrexham FC, thanks to a photo of it being displayed on the ground scoreboard.
“Even though it has been taken down this season as they are building new stand, it's a great time to be associated with the club/town!” Steve says proudly. Minera continues to be a long-time sponsor of Wrexham FC, with the company’s boards displayed around the ground, it showcases their strong Welsh connections.
It is clear to see Steve is not only proud of his truck, but also the work he does and the company he works for. Let’s see what the next 5 years have in store.
