One the Ƶ’s leading independent commercial vehicle dealers, David Spear Commercials, has further expanded its sponsorship of rugby with a new deal with English Premiership side Bristol Bears.
The Tredegar-based business, which in August become majority-owned by its employees - via an employee-owned trust - has struck a two-year deal with the club, which sees it becoming official kit and van partner. The sponsorship will see it supplying the club with a Ford Transit vehicle to support its operations, while the David Spear log will be displayed on the back of the players' shorts.
The deal builds on existing sponsorship deal with Welsh rugby regions, Cardiff Rugby, Ospreys and the Dragons.
David Spear, founder of David Spear Commercials, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to partner with one of the most exciting rugby teams in the Ƶ. The facilities and professionalism at Bristol Bears are world-class, and with Pat Lam at the helm and the high-profile signing of Louis Rees-Zammit, there’s a real sense of momentum around the club.
“We’re already heavily involved in Welsh regional rugby, and Bristol feels like our ‘fifth region’ — close to home, with a strong customer base across the Southwest. From day one, we felt genuinely welcomed, and it was clear both organisations share the same energy, passion, and drive. This partnership just makes sense.”
Tom Tainton, chief executive of Bristol Bears, said:“We’re delighted to welcome David Spear Commercial Vehicles as a new partner. They are a family-run business with a superb reputation and a genuine affinity for rugby. We’ve enjoyed collaborating with Dave and Geraint on this partnership, and there’s a strong alignment of values between our organisations. We look forward to growing together as we embark on the season ahead.”
Geraint Yeo, director of David Spear Commercials, said:“The opportunities ahead are massive. The Bears’ commercial team have been outstanding, and their ambition matches our own. This is just the start of what we know will be an exciting and powerful partnership between Spear and the Bears.”
On the outlook for the business Mr Spear said:|"Over the past year, we’ve worked hard to rebalance our stock and adapt to a shifting market. By maintaining a strong focus on quality used light commercial vehicles and ensuring a steady supply of new vehicles aligned to demand, we’ve strengthened our market position.
"Our strategy has also been recognised within the industry, as we were recently awarded the Van Retailer of the Year at the 2025 AutoTrader Awards in London. Looking ahead, we’re confident in delivering a robust and sustainable growth strategy that builds on our current position of strength.”
In its last financial year the business generated revenues of £26m. The business was founded by Mr Spear in 1987 e business has grown to become a leading player in the commercial vehicle sector, supplying a wide range of vehicles to businesses across the Ƶ.
