James Alpe scores Red Bull commission

Global energy drinks giant Red Bull has called on Clitheroe-based family firm James Alpe Ltd to covert its fleet of distinctive Red Bull Minis.

The team recently completed the first three vehicles for the Irish division of Red Bull which involved cutting the roof off a brand new Mini, fitting a body kit including a new roof, fridge and giant Red Bull can, followed by a complex and time-consuming four-colour paint job.

The full fleet of nine Minis to be converted by James Alpe Ltd will be used to promote Red Bull energy drinks by a team of ‘Wings’ drivers across the UK.

Company founder James Alpe said: "Our name was put forward by one of our business partners, FMG in Huddersfield, who have a long-standing relationship with Red Bull.

"We were invited to go down to London and present to Red Bull at their UK headquarters which, unusually, are in a pub. The whole company ethos is cool and trendy and we were also instructed not to wear business attire."

Using previous vehicle conversions as case studies, the pitch went in James Alpe's favour and the two struck a deal. "We're delighted, " added James. "It’s not too often that a Clitheroe family-run business gets awarded a contract with a multi national company like Red Bull."