[Case Study] Custom Vinyl Wrap Project: LaVanture Box Truck Makeover
Executive Summary
Richard LaVanture, owner of LaVanture, a distributor of industry/manufacturing products, rolled a pristine white box truck fresh off the manufacturer’s lot into AlphaGraphics Elkhart. More than just a delivery vehicle, it was a blank canvas waiting for transformation.
The AlphaGraphics team turned that plain factory finish into a dazzling mobile billboard using Avery Dennison’s SW900 Supreme Wrapping Film™ in Gloss Spark Red, which is a high-performance vinyl with Easy Apply™ RS technology. The dual-layer film provided a deep, paint-like gloss and sparkling highlights that instantly elevated the vehicle from ordinary to unforgettable.
Erik Shultz, owner of AlphaGraphics Elkhart, led the project team through a complete vehicle transformation using advanced color-change vinyl technology and precision decal application. The work involved wrapping the entire vehicle cab and adding custom graphics. This included a photorealistic image on the back of the truck that created an optical illusion of an open lift gate with branded LaVanture boxes on the floor.
Challenge
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LaVanture operates in a highly competitive marketplace serving RV manufacturers, where numerous distributors compete for business from only a handful of original equipment manufacturers. LaVanture had allocated a budget for a unique branding solution that would deliver long-term value without the limitations of previous approaches. Standing out in this dense market environment requires differentiation strategies that give companies an edge over their competitors.
The company also faced practical vehicle branding challenges from previous approaches to fleet customization. LaVanture had previously painted their truck chassis and coordinated with box manufacturers to paint matching colors, but material differences between cab and box surfaces created inconsistent appearances that never looked professional. This paint-matching process proved both difficult to execute and limited future flexibility if branding changes became necessary.
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Solution
LaVanture approached AlphaGraphics Elkhart without a specific design concept in mind. The AlphaGraphics team guided them through various creative options and design possibilities to develop the final concept. This approach allowed both parties to explore innovative ideas that set the vehicle apart from standard commercial wraps.
The team selected a dramatic red sparkle vinyl wrap for maximum visual impact. The solution involved two main phases: wrapping the entire vehicle cab, followed by precision-applied secondary graphics featuring logos and contact information.
Implementation Process
Design Development - Erik worked directly with LaVanture to explore layout options and color combinations, creating multiple mockups with different approaches to logo placement and text sizing until the final concept met their requirements
Surface Preparation - Technicians cleaned the truck and removed manufacturer's residue while addressing minor surface imperfections to ensure proper vinyl adhesion
Application Planning - The team developed detailed plans to minimize seams and maintain consistent coverage across both cab and box surfaces
Red Sparkle Vinyl Installation - Specialized techniques were used for the cab transformation, including temperature monitoring and controlled heat application around complex areas like door handles and mirrors
Box Section Wrapping - Coordinated graphics were applied to the box section to complement the red sparkle cab finish
Secondary Graphics - Precision-cut decals featuring the LaVanture logo and contact information were added, with placement optimized for visibility from different vehicle heights
Final Inspection - Each phase includeda detailed examination of vinyl edges, seam placement, and graphic alignment with adjustments made for optimal appearance and durability
Results
The vinyl wrap project converted a plain white truck into a bold brand ambassador that generates visibility throughout LaVanture's operating territory. The red sparkle finish created an eye-catching presence that distinguishes the company from competitors in their industry.
The project utilized premium Avery Dennison materials engineered for both visual impact and long-term performance:
- Brand and Series: Avery Dennison SW900 Series, Supreme Wrapping Film™
- Finish: Gloss Spark Red – a high-gloss, paint-like finish with light-catching sparkle for maximum visual impact
- Technology: Dual-layer construction (color + transparent protective layer) for durability and depth
- Adhesive: Easy Apply™ RS technology that allows repositioning, slideability, and faster, bubble-free installation
- Application Benefits: Conforms to curves and recesses (great for complex cab areas), wide rolls (60 inches) for seamless coverage on hoods, roofs, and panels
- Protection: UV resistance, scratch and chip protection – turning the wrap into both a branding and a protective upgrade
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Richard was thrilled with the final result and how it captured his company's philosophy. "We try to be a bit different in the marketplace because we like to do things our own way, and when it comes to our design, we try to be creative and not look like everyone else.," he mentioned. “The wrap gives us exactly what we wanted—a mobile advertisement that represents our brand everywhere we go."
LaVanture's truck generates brand exposure every day during regular delivery routes. These daily operations carry the company's message to customers across multiple territories. The constant visibility reinforces LaVanture's professional image and builds recognition throughout their market area.
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Partner with AlphaGraphics Elkhart for Custom Vinyl Wrap Solutions
AlphaGraphics Elkhart transforms commercial vehicles into mobile marketing tools through professional vinyl wrap services. Our team handles design development, installation, and quality control to maximize your brand visibility. Contact us to learn how vehicle wraps can expand your marketing reach during regular business operations.
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