More 'Wilco' Adverts

Reliance AEX85B complete with rear advert for Shortis Motorist Discount Store

Since the item on the application of a Wilco advert to the rear of ALX400 32061, I have received a number of tweets and emails regarding the subject

The foundation for Wilco Motor Spares was laid in 1963 when Kevin Shortis, as a 23 year old, opened his first Motorist Discount Store in Norwich, bringing cut price, branded products to local car owners. It was an immediate success with more stores opening until 1971 when the company was taken over. However the acquisition was not successful due to the lack of personal attention and, after a few years, Kevin Shortis formed Wilco Motor Spares and then bought back four of his original stores

The reason for the company history will become apparent when I tell you that the former Great Yarmouth Corporation AEC Reliance, at the East Anglia Transport Museum, currently sports a Shortis Motorist Discount Store rear advert. Incidentally the company had a Great Yarmouth outlet at Blackfriars Road at the time

When Reliance AEX85B was rubbed down an advert was found and traced. Richard Algar says this was reproduced after research and hours of careful paint scraping to ensure it was authentic. Neil Chilvers adds that Mr Shortis thankfully paid for the reproduced advert on the new boot lid

My thanks to Richard and Neil for the information and photos