The right ice cream van can make all the difference to your promotional campaign. Whether you’re looking to tap into nostalgia, create a retro activation or give your brand a more contemporary look, there’s a perfect vehicle for you.
At Promohire, we have three distinct styles to choose from: the vintage Bedford, retro Ford Transit, and modern Mercedes. Each has its own character and advantages, so let’s compare them to help you find the perfect fit.
The Vintage Bedford
There’s something special about a vintage ice cream van that can’t be replicated.
With its classic shape and unmistakable British character, the Bedford is a familiar sight that brings back memories for older generations and is a completely new sight for younger audiences. In essence, this alone makes it both a unique talking point and a social media content magnet!
The Bedford van is more than just looks, though. It’s also perfectly designed to make serving easy, whether you’re handing out a classic cone or artisan scoop.
Why choose this option?
Instant nostalgia: A traditional appearance adds classic appeal to any launch, pop-up, or activation – tugging on heartstrings in a way few vehicles can match.
Standout character: The distinctive style makes it an attraction in its own right, even before you add your branding. Put simply, it’s a real head turner!
Best of British: Perfect for campaigns celebrating heritage, summer traditions, or childlike fun.
When it comes to vintage ice cream van hire, the classic Bedford is loved by movie studios, drinks brands, and even tech companies. See how it took a starring role for The Witcher’s Netflix launch.
The Ford Transit
The Ford Transit is a hero to Millennials that famously love all things retro.
Lifted straight from the 1990s, this model features a short-cowl design and ‘smiley face’ appearance. It’s a style that helped make it a familiar sight on UK roads, and one that can play into all kinds of product sampling and awareness campaigns.
More contemporary than the classic Bedford, the Ford Transit is old enough to hold a special place in the hearts of those who grew up with it. Discover its origins in our look back at the history of Britain’s ice cream vans.
Why could this be the best choice?
A different kind of nostalgia: Its 80s and 90s look makes it a more recent throwback, playing into the ‘retro revival’ that audiences today appreciate.
Instant recognition: The distinctive front end and familiar Transit shape make it easy to spot, even in a crowded city or festival environment.
A balance of old and new: It retains the charm of a traditional ice cream van while offering a different style and a more modern serving space.
The Ford Transit is a great option for brands looking to create a playful activation with a retro aesthetic. Charlotte Tilbury, Blank Street, NYX, Carlsberg and even the musician Jax Jones have used this model to be seen and connect with their audiences!
The modern Mercedes
Make your brand experience simple but effective with a present-day ice cream van.
Function and style combine for a vehicle that delivers modern reliability, but with the familiar features audiences know to expect.
The Mercedes ice cream van is taller, wider and longer than both the Bedford and Ford Transit, providing a more spacious serving area. This also makes storage easier, which is a big plus for high-volume sampling and larger activations.
Should you go with this option?
Contemporary style: A more modern appearance for brands looking to hand out delicious treats, without the need for a nostalgic vibe.
Extra serving space: Its larger dimensions provide a more spacious mobile setup, with additional room for chest freezers, sundries and more.
A bold brand presence: Being bigger means there’s more real estate for your brand’s logos, messaging, and imagery.
The Mercedes ice cream van is loved by all kinds of brand, including British Airways, who made it a focal point of their 100-year celebrations.
Something different: The Citroën Type H
You don’t have to stick to a traditional ice cream van to serve up something sweet.
Combining vintage appeal with a modern build, the Citroën Type H Relay has become popular with brands looking to make a visual impact. And while it’s not a purpose-built ice cream van, it can easily be adapted to suit your sampling campaign.
This vehicle was key to the Strong Roots for Oral Health campaign. Guests could sign the wrap as part of a petition and grab a free minty ice cream as part of the experience. It then headed to Westminster, where it was the star of a major social media campaign!
Ready to serve up something special?
At Promohire, we can source, brand, customise and deliver the exact type of vehicle you need. And with a wide range of support options available, such as sampling and fulfilment, we can help take the stress out of campaign planning.
Click the link below to learn all about our ice cream vans, see them in action, and to start your journey with a member of our team.
