A GROWING number of entrepreneurs are going mobile as a result of the coronavirus crisis, according to Europe's largest trailer maker.

Ifor Williams Trailers said sales of its innovative Business Inabox model that can be used to set up shop in different places are soaring across the UK and farther afield as companies adapt to the new challenges posed by the pandemic.

Customers have the option of having living accommodation at the front that can be kitted out like a two-berth caravan with seating for three people and an en suite toilet if required.

It can also have a table, a sink, a cooking hob and optional grill, a fridge and a flat screen 12 volt television with a DVD player.

According to the Corwen manufacturer, the trailer is already being put to a huge variety of uses by companies, including mobile shops, barbershops, workshops, bars and catering and exhibition units.

“In recent months we have seen a big increase in demand for our Business Inabox trailers at our sales centre in Corwen," said company spokesperson Samantha Williams.

“Our network of 50 UK distributors and our international distributors as far afield as New Zealand and Australia are also experiencing a similar rise in sales.

“The coronavirus crisis is making companies think outside the box so they can find new ways of operating to meet challenges of the current situation.

The trailer firm is hoping that as more businesses use its boxes, its presence will grow and create further momentum.

“The possibilities are limitless for any business that needs to be able to trade in different places without the need to tow a caravan or pay for accommodation," Mrs Williams added.

“Increasingly, companies are taking their business to their customers rather than waiting for the customers to come to them.

“We can also turn the Business Inabox trailer into a mobile billboard by wrapping the outer surface with a large vinyl sheet with an advertisement or the company's own livery."

As business gets back to normal after the coronavirus lockdown, the company's exhibition unit will attend a series of shows to promote its partnership with NFU and the services they offer.

NFU area secretary Merfyn Roberts said: “We have very similar customers, including farmers, builders and tradespeople and we fly the flag for Welsh farming.

"This is an excellent, state-of-the-art trailer and we're much looking forward to using it at events."