Leasedrive News

Pioneering trust retains Leasedrive to deliver car salary sacrifice scheme

One of the first NHS Trusts in the country to introduce a car salary sacrifice scheme has retained the Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, to deliver its mycar service.

Capgemini renews fleet outsourcing agreement with Leasedrive

Capgemini, one of the world’s foremost providers of consulting, technology and outsourcing services, has renewed its fleet management outsourcing contract with Leasedrive, the UK’s largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group, for another three years with the option to extend for a further two years.

Commercial director, Roddy Graham, at Leasedrive said: “We are delighted that one of the world’s leading providers of outsourcing services should continue to be delighted with the fleet management outsourcing services it receives from Leasedrive. Capgemini has been a client of ours for five years and has 1,050 current and 3,500 eligible company car drivers.

“We continue to receive excellent feedback from our annual driver surveys and have fine-tuned driver choice even further over the past 24 months. The number of manufacturers now totals 16 and comprises Audi, BMW, Citroën, Ford, Honda, Lexus, Mercedes, Mini, Renault, Seat, Skoda, Smart, Toyota, Vauxhall, Volvo and VW.

“In terms of greener vehicles, Capgemini is already running hybrid vehicles and is now evaluating electric vehicles to assess them for possible addition in the future.”

Ruth Makepeace, employee benefits manager at Capgemini, said “We are delighted to have extended our contract with Leasedrive. Their positive, pro-active and supportive approach to fleet management has enabled our relationship to go from strength to strength. In addition, during the last 18 months, we have seen a 30 per cent increase in company car scheme take up. This increase is testament to the collaborative work that has taken place between Capgemini, the driver helpdesk and our account manager.”

Capgemini is currently working with Leasedrive on achieving its sustainability targets, with resultant benefits to drivers in terms of improved fuel economy and to Capgemini in terms of a lower carbon footprint through reduced CO2 levels.

Capgemini’s car eligible employees have the opportunity to opt into the car scheme at any time during the year. By offering a salary sacrifice scheme the employee saves tax and National Insurance on the monthly lease charges making it a cost effective way of leasing a car.

Leasedrive re-signs BAT

The Leasedrive Group, the UK’s largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group, has retained the business to supply contract hire and fleet management services in the UK to BAT, the world’s second largest quoted tobacco group by global market share. The sole-supply contract has been extended for a further three years and covers a fleet of around 350 cars leased to and owned by BAT.

Leasedrive launches new website

Leasedrive, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, has launched a brand new website and, to celebrate, is offering one day free car or van rental for new customers on selected vehicle groups, which include Ford Mondeos, Vauxhall Insignias and Ford Transit Connects.

Leasedrive 2012 predictions – 10 key trends

Leasedrive Group, the UK’s largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, predicts ten key trends for 2012.

Leasedrive wins Agriculture & Horticulture Development Board contract

Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, has won its first contract under the Government Procurement Service (formerly Buying Solutions) framework agreement Lot 7, covering single source supply of leased passenger vehicles and commercial vehicles up to 7.5 tonnes. The Group is to provide contract hire vehicles on a sole supply basis to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, the non-departmental public body. Leasedrive will also be providing SMR and accident management services on the existing fleet.

Hospital trust stays green with Leasedrive

One of the biggest and busiest acute NHS Trusts in England has retained the Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, to deliver its green car salary sacrifice scheme, which only allows employees to choose vehicles emitting CO2 of 140g/km or less.

Arqiva renews links with Leasedrive

Arqiva, the communications infrastructure and media services company, has extended its vehicle rental agreement with the rental management division of the Leasedrive Group, the UK’s largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group, for a further two years.

Leasedrive heats up BDR Thermea’s car fleet

Leasedrive, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, has added cars to the existing van contract hire agreement held with BDR Thermea, a world leading manufacturer and distributor of innovative heating and hot water systems and services. The new contract, covering 550 cars and vans, is for three years with an option for BDR Thermea to extend for a further two years.

Leasedrive retains Experian

Leasedrive, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, has re-signed Experian, the leading global information services company, as a fleet management customer for a further five years after the latter went out to tender. Experian was originally one of Masterlease UK's five largest customers, with a fleet size of around 650 vehicles, and, following the successful integration of Masterlease UK, it recognised the new Leasedrive Group as the best fleet partner.

Leasedrive raises driver customer satisfaction levels

Driver satisfaction levels among blue chip clients of the Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, are at an all-time high with 98 per cent of drivers either satisfied or very satisfied with the service levels they received.

Leasedrive ‘energised’ with Matrix win

Leasedrive, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, has won a three-year contract hire agreement to supply contract hire, accident management and grey fleet management services to the Matrix Group, the UK’s largest energy management company, on a sole supply basis.

Leasedrive reveals most popular salary sacrifice car choices

In an analysis of over 3,500 cars currently supplied under its salary sacrifice car scheme, mycar, the Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, has revealed that the Audi A3 is the most popular vehicle choice among public sector employees and the Ford Fiesta is the most popular car choice for private sector employees. The analysis also revealed that average vehicle emissions had also dropped in the past year in the salary sacrifice fleets of both sectors – dropping from 120.6 g/km to 117.9 g/km in the public sector and from 142.9 g/km to 135.9 g/km in the private sector. Underscoring the differences, red was the most popular vehicle colour in the public sector and black by a significant margin in the private sector.

Leasedrive re-signs Marie Curie Cancer Care

Leasedrive, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, has re-signed with Marie Curie Cancer Care, one of the UK’s leading charities, for another two years. The new contract covers 174 cars, mainly Peugeot and Renault, on contract hire or contract purchase plus the provision of short-term rental.

Chris Salmon aims to score big wins as Leasedrive’s new UK sales manager

Ex-professional footballer and fleet industry professional, Chris Salmon has joined the Leasedrive Group, the UK’s largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group, as UK sales manager.

Triple crown for Leasedrive's Rental:Manager in BusinessCar Techies Awards

For the third successive year, the Leasedrive Group, the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group, has won the Best Daily Rental System category in the BusinessCar Techies 2011 Awards for its Rental:Manager award-winning online vehicle rental booking system.

Leasedrive Group wins bid for BCA rental business

The rental management division of the Leasedrive Group, the UK’s largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group, has secured the vehicle rental business for BCA, the UK and Europe’s largest vehicle auction company.

Sandra Iasi promoted to account manager

Sandra Iasi has been promoted from client services team leader to account manager at the Leasedrive Group, the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group.

Leasedrive wins ‘roof pitch’ to sign up Monier

Leasedrive, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, has won a three-year contract hire agreement to supply around 110 contract hire vehicles to Monier, the UK's leading supplier of Redland pitched concrete roof tiles, clay tiles, roof slates, solar roofing, metal roofing sheets, roofing product accessories and fittings.

Leasedrive’s new ‘Essential Guide to Electric Vehicles – Future Imperfect’

Leasedrive, the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group, has produced an 'Essential Guide to Electric Vehicles Future Imperfect'. As the title suggests, the group does not consider electric vehicles will have a smooth journey with many uncertainties on the road ahead.

Leasedrive Velo Group changes name and re-brands

The Leasedrive Velo Group, the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group, has been re-named the Leasedrive Group and has unveiled a new 'Leasedrive' brand logo. These changes follow the successful integration of Masterlease UK, after the group was appointed by Investec at the end of last year to manage, operate and integrate the latter's acquisition of the UK contract hire business of Masterlease UK.

Paul Fleming joins board at the Leasedrive Group. Appointed Sales and Marketing Director

The Leasedrive Group, the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group, has appointed Paul Fleming to its board and the newly created position of sales and marketing director. His appointment is effective from 1 July 2011.

Leasedrive Velo Group digs deep to win JCB rental contract

The rental management division of the Leasedrive Velo Group, the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group, has won a contract to service the vehicle rental requirements of JCB, one of the world's top three manufacturers of construction equipment.

Leasedrive Velo makes first appearance in The Sunday Times PwC Profit Track 100 – ranked 40th

The Leasedrive Velo Group has made its first appearance in the latest The Sunday Times PricewaterhouseCoopers Profit Track 100, now in its 12th year, which ranks Britain’s 100 private companies with the fastest-growing profits over the last three years of available audited accounts. The UK’s largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group was ranked 40th. It was the only fleet management company among 19 companies based in the south east of England.

Leasedrive Velo Group wins the ‘Management Team of the Year’ Award in the 2011 Thames Valley and Solent Deal Awards

In last night’s Thames Valley and Solent Deal Awards, the Leasedrive Velo Group, the UK’s largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group, won the ‘Management Team of the Year’ Award. This follows the group’s appointment by Investec at the end of last year to manage, operate and integrate the latter’s acquisition of the UK contract hire business of Masterlease UK.

Joe Howick promoted to new position - Rental Management Director at the Leasedrive Velo Group

Joe Howick has been promoted from sales director to the newly-created position of rental management director at the rental management division of the Leasedrive Velo Group, the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group.

Dominic Moran promoted to Account Management Director at Birmingham office of the Leasedrive Velo Group

Dominic Moran has been promoted from head of strategic and corporate accounts to the newly-created position of account management director at the Birmingham office of the Leasedrive Velo Group, the UK’s largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group.

Leasedrive Velo wins third Buying Solutions framework agreement for a full house

Following a comprehensive online tender process, the Leasedrive Velo Group, the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group, has won a place on a third framework agreement from Buying Solutions, the national procurement partner for all UK public services. Lot 7 covers single source supply of leased passenger vehicles and commercial vehicles up to 7.5 tonnes, with the option to provide additional vehicles and fleet management services as required. The group is one of only five suppliers on this latest framework agreement effective from 16 May 2011 for a four-year period.

Leasedrive Velo drives value to re-sign Ceridian

The Leasedrive Velo Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, has retained the business to supply contract hire and fleet management services to Ceridian, the UK's leading provider of HR and payroll services. The sole-supply contract covers a fleet of around 100 contract hire vehicles and 120 cash-for-car drivers. Vehicle supply is predominantly Audi, BMW and Volkswagen.

Leasedrive Velo's new 'Essential Guide to Grey Fleet Management' - grey fleet, a ticking time bomb

Leasedrive Velo, the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group, has produced an 'Essential Guide to Grey Fleet Management'. It considers the financial, environmental and duty of care considerations associated with grey fleet management.

Leasedrive Velo Group 2011 predictions - ten key trends

Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, predicts ten key trends for 2011. This follows on from its white paper entitled 'A vision of fleet management in 2015. Predictions on how the fleet industry could look in the future' published in January.

Leasedrive Velo Group appointed by Investec to manage, operate and integrate Masterlease portfolio

Investec Capital Markets ("Investec"), part of Investec Bank plc, has acquired the contract hire operations of Birmingham-based Masterlease UK, one of the UK's leading vehicle leasing specialists, from Ally Financial Inc. (formerly GMAC Inc.) for an undisclosed amount.

Leasedrive Velo witnesses uptake for Licence:Manager

The Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has seen a significant increase in uptake among clients for its licence checking module, Licence:Manager. In the past 12 months, the number of customers subscribing to Licence:Manager has risen by 44 per cent with over two-thirds of clients now regularly checking employee driving licence records through the robust and fast-track solution.

Leasedrive Velo adds Avis as a preferred rental supplier

Leasedrive Velo has signed a preferred supplier agreement with Avis UK for the provision of rental vehicles to its rental management division. The agreement is for an initial three-year period and will see Leasedrive Rental Management, one of the UK's largest short-term vehicle rental management companies in the corporate market place, offer its customers increased access to nearly 220,000 vehicles from more than 1,200 locations in the UK including airports.

Leasedrive Velo makes three new appointments in drive for growth

In a major sales drive, Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has made three new appointments - Kate Adams and Andrew White as business development managers within its rental management and vehicle management divisions respectively; and Liz Davenport as a bid and tender executive in support of both divisions.

P11D:Manager module added to Drive:Manager system

Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has just added the P11D:Manager module to its award-winning totally-integrated online fleet management system, Drive:Manager. P11D:Manager collates pre-validated vehicle and fuel card information and delivers 100 per cent accuracy to client organisations.

Magnet renews 650-vehicle contract with Leasedrive Velo

Magnet, the UK's leading kitchen retailer based in Darlington, has renewed its 650-vehicle contract hire contract with the Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UKâ€™s largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, for a further four years. The fully-managed contract covers both company cars and vans and 40 user-chooser drivers.

Two in a row for Leasedrive Velo's Rental:Manager in BusinessCar Techies Awards

For the second successive year, the Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has won the Best Rental System category in the BusinessCar Techies 2010 Awards for its Rental:Manager award-winning online vehicle rental booking system.

Leasedrive Velo’s charity bike ride donation takes total fundraising for Marie Curie to £45,000

Leasedrive Velo, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK has donated over £9,000 to Marie Curie Cancer Care following a recent 270-mile charity bike ride from its headquarters in Wokingham, Berkshire to Le Mans, France. The donation takes Leasedrive Velo’s total fundraising amount for one of the UK’s oldest charities to £45,000 since adopting Marie Curie Cancer Care as its official charity in 2006.

Leasedrive Velo wins Mencap

The Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has won a four-year fleet management contract with learning disability charity, Mencap. The deal covers the buying, selling, maintenance and accident management of 250 vehicles, plus short-term vehicle rental.

Leasedrive Velo continues to diversify - new 3-year deal with Scope

Disability charity Scope has renewed its contract for a further three years with the Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK.

McNeill rejoins Leasedrive Velo Rental Management Division in recruitment drive

Roland McNeil has rejoined the Rental Management division of the Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, as an account manager.

Wokingham to Le Mans Bike Ride

Leasedrive Velo team raises £10,983 for Marie Curie Cancer Care and RNLI ahead of 261-mile bike ride from Wokingham HQ to Le Mans 21-06-2010

Leasedrive Velo comes to the rental rescue of the RNLI

The rental management division of the Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has won a three-year contract to service the vehicle rental requirements of all eligible crew working for the RNLI, the charity that saves lives at sea.

Leasedrive Velo charity bike ride in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care and RNLI

The Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, is entering a team of 17 riders in a 261-mile charity bike ride between its headquarters at the TRL proving ground in Wokingham and Le Mans in aid of two charities. The team, led by group information solutions manager, Paul Newman, aims to raise a minimum of £5,000 for Marie Curie Cancer Care, one of the UK's oldest charities, and the RNLI, the charity that saves lives at sea.

Leasedrive Velo launches new vehicle servicing management initiative

Roddy Graham, commercial director, at Leasedrive Velo said: "The new Service:Manager module is designed to ensure that the servicing and maintenance of company cars is completed as quickly and seamlessly as possible."

Leasedrive Velo's new 'Essential Guide to company car salary sacrifice schemes'

Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has produced a white paper entitled 'Why the compensation and benefits function needs to embrace company car salary sacrifice schemes'

Leasedrive Velo wins a Buying Solutions vehicle hire framework agreement

Following a comprehensive online tender process, the Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has won a place on a second framework agreement from Buying Solutions, the national procurement partner for UK public services. The group is one of only two suppliers on the framework agreement to cover all three lots (Lots 1, 2 and 3) for the provision of pan-government vehicle hire services, ranging from cars to commercial vehicles up to 7.5 tonnes. The agreement is effective from 22 March 2010 and is for a four-year period.

Board changes at Leasedrive Velo Group

The Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK announces today a number of changes to its management structure.

Capgemini extends Leasedrive Velo contract for a further two years

Capgemini, one of the world's foremost providers of consulting, technology and outsourcing services, has extended its fleet management agreement with Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, for another two years. Capgemini has been a Leasedrive Velo client since 2006 and has 800 current and 3,500 eligible company car drivers.

BDO figures on Leasedrive Velo for future contract hire

The Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has won a major contract with BDO LLP, the award-winning UK member firm of BDO International, the world's fifth largest accountancy network with more than 1,000 offices in over 100 countries, to provide contract hire for around 200 partners in the UK.

Leasedrive Velo makes first appearance in Sunday Times Deloitte Buyout Track 100

Leasedrive Velo has made its first appearance in the latest Sunday Times Deloitte Buyout Track 100, which ranks Britain's 100 private equity-backed companies with the fastest-growing profits. One of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, the company was ranked 89th. It was the only fleet management company to feature in the list and was one of 19 companies based in the south east of England.

Leasedrive Velo 'fleet management vision in 2015' white paper

Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has produced a white paper entitled 'A vision of fleet management in 2015. Predictions on how the fleet industry could look in the future.'

Leasedrive Velo wins EST Fleet Hero Award

Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has won the 'Innovation in Services and Systems' Energy Saving Trust Fleet Hero 2009 Award for its fully-automated secure new online business and private mileage capture and reporting solution, Mileage:Manager, launched in May.

New e-Invoicing from Leasedrive Velo for rental customers

Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has just introduced a new electronic billing solution for its rental management customers, e-Invoicing, to reduce its carbon footprint and deliver a more efficient and streamlined service.

Leasedrive Velo wins a Buying Solutions framework agreement

Following a comprehensive online tender process, the Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has won one of five fleet management services framework agreements for general fleet management services awarded by Buying Solutions, the national procurement partner for UK public services. The agreement is effective from 2 November 2009 and is for an initial two-year period with the potential to extend for a further two years.

Survey reveals drivers could do with a Highway Code refresher

In an online survey of 1,041 drivers by the Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, only 48 per cent admitted having read the Highway Code since passing their driving test. Of these, 47 per cent refreshed their knowledge in the current decade, 22 per cent in the 90s and 20 per cent in the 80s.

Traffic:Manager module added to Drive:Manager system

Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has just added the Traffic:Manager module to its award-winning totally-integrated online fleet management system, Drive:Manager. Traffic:Manager delivers live traffic information on current traffic conditions throughout Great Britain direct to the workplace desktops of 'at work' drivers and fleet managers.

Leasedrive Velo wins sexy Ann Summers contract

The Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has won a major new fleet management contract with Ann Summers, the high street's leading purveyor of all things fun and sexy. The contract covers a fleet of 270 vehicles in the UK.

Ex-football pro MacDonald appointed Account Manager

The Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has expanded the field sales team within its rental management division with the appointment of Gary MacDonald as an account manager.

Rental:Manager from Leasedrive Velo scoops BusinessCar Techies Award

Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has won the Best Rental System category in the BusinessCar Techies 2009 Awards. This follows the launch of Rental:Manager 3.0, a faster and slicker version of its award-winning online vehicle rental booking facility with a brand new look and feel, a personalised home page and easier navigation options in the menu bar.

Leasedrive Velo commended in inaugural European GreenFleet Awards

Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has been commended for its Carbon:Manager initiative at the inaugural 2008 European GreenFleet Awards held in Brussels.

New faster Rental:Manager from Leasedrive Velo

Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has launched a faster and slicker version of its award-winning online vehicle booking facility Rental:Manager with a brand new look and feel, a personalised home page and easier navigation options in the menu bar.

Magnet extends 650-vehicle contract with Leasedrive Velo

Magnet, the UK's leading kitchen retailer based in Darlington, has extended its 650-vehicle contract hire contract with the Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, for a further 12 months. The contract covers both company cars and vans sourced under the Ford family badge and 25 user-chooser drivers.

New Drive:Manager website launched

Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has just completed the roll-out to its clients of a new, more comprehensive website supporting its award-winning totally-integrated online fleet management system, Drive:Manager.

Leasedrive Velo launches new online mileage capture and reporting solution

Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has launched a fully-automated secure new online business and private mileage capture and reporting solution, Mileage:Manager, linked to fuel card invoices and cash receipts. Operating either as a standalone mileage capture product or as part of the suite of solutions on offer under the group's multi-award winning totally-integrated online fleet management system, Drive:Manager, it seamlessly integrates with a customer's payroll and expense management system to deliver many benefits and savings to an organisation and its employees. Mileage:Manager has been developed for and is already being successfully used by a number of the group's blue chip customers.

Ford best and worst in Leasedrive Velo Group survey

In an online survey of over 600 drivers by the Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, the Ford Mondeo was voted the best and worst company car ever driven!

Leasedrive Velo Group 2009 predictions - Ten key trends

Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, predicts ten key trends for 2009. And of its seven predictions for 2008, five were bang on target and the jury is still out on the remaining two.

'Three-in-a-Row' win for Leasedrive Velo in 2008 Thames Valley Awards

Last Thursday, the Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, achieved new heights by becoming the first company to scoop the 'Management Team of the Year' Award for three years in a row at the 2008 Thames Valley Business Magazine Awards.

Leasedrive Velo helps client T-Mobile save £400,000

Accident management reports from the Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, show that its client T-Mobile, one of the world's largest mobile operators and service provider of choice for 16.8 million customers in the UK, has seen its road traffic crash rate drop by 20 per cent in 2007 over 2006 and cost of accidents fall by 49 per cent in the same period, saving T-Mobile £400,000.

CO2 emissions will influence choice of next company car say 87% of drivers surveyed

In an online survey of 1,074 drivers by the Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, 87 per cent of respondents stated that CO2 emissions would influence the choice of their next company car. Furthermore, 64 per cent would be willing to pay £40 or more to offset their company car's emissions for a fixed annual fee.

Leasedrive Velo wins tasty new contract with KFC

The Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has won a major new leasing contract with KFC, the world's most popular chicken restaurant chain. The multi-supply contract hire and fleet management agreement covers 60 contract hire and 90 cash-for car drivers in the UK.

Leasedrive Velo Group launches EnviroDrive

A green company car salary sacrifice scheme called EnviroDrive, offering cost saving and environmental benefits to both employer and employee, has been launched by Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK.

Leasedrive Velo wins £2.1m sale and leaseback contract from Palmer & Harvey

Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has won a major contract from Palmer and Harvey, the UK's largest wholesale distributor. The £2.1m contract involves the sale and leaseback of 204 company cars plus the replacement of 130 contract hire vehicles over the next six months.

Final total raised for Marie Curie Cancer Care reaches £16,472

The final amount raised by a team of 14 riders entered by Leasedrive Velo Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, in a specially-organised 250-mile charity bike ride between London and Paris in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care was £16,471.99.

Leasedrive Velo in the fast lane following £80m deal

Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has been bought by its senior management team in a deal valued at £80m. The transaction is backed by private equity house Lloyds Development Capital (LDC), which has made a significant investment for a majority stake in the business. Debt and asset finance facilities to support the deal were provided by The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS). A new company has been formed, Leasedrive Velo Group.

Leasedrive Velo celebrates 25th anniversary

Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, celebrated its 25th anniversary on 25 July 2008.

Leasedrive Velo named 'Fleet Management Company 08/09' by ITM

Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has been named 'Fleet Management Company 08/09' by the Institute of Transport Management (ITM).

Leasedrive Velo team raises over £13,500 in London to Paris Bike Ride

A team of 14 riders entered by Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, successfully completed a 250-mile charity bike ride between London and Paris in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care and in doing so smashed its fund-raising target of £5,000 by so far raising over £13,500 for the 60-year-old charity.

Leasedrive Velo posts successful first business year

Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has announced that the combined turnover of the group in the first year following the successful merger between Leasedrive and Velo in January 2007 was £56m. Earnings before interest, tax and amortisation (EBITA) was £4.6m.

Leasedrive Velo London to Paris Charity Bike Ride

Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, is entering a team of 14 riders in a 250-mile charity bike ride between London and Paris in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care. The team, led by commercial director Roddy Graham, aims to raise a minimum of £5,000 for Marie Curie Cancer Care, one of the UK's oldest charities, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year.

Positive smoke signals following first major re-sign after merger

Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has won its first major re-tender since its merger twelve months ago by re-signing the world's second largest tobacco group, British American Tobacco (BAT) in the UK. The full fleet management and contract hire contract agreement covers nearly 400 cars and extends the existing contract for a further three years.

Leasedrive Velo 2008 predictions - seven key trends

Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, predicts seven key trends for 2008.

Leasedrive Velo to keep Arqiva on the move

Leasedrive Velo Rental Management, one of the largest corporate providers of short and mid-term vehicle rental with access to 128,779 vehicles from 958 locations in the UK, has won sole supplier status with Arqiva, the broadcast and mobile communications network solutions and services provider. The contract covers both short and medium-term vehicle rental.

Leasedrive Velo's Millionth Rental!

In an exciting day for Leasedrive Velo Rental Management, one of the largest corporate providers of short and mid-term vehicle rental, the millionth rental booking was taken by reservations agent Lindsey Brooks who received a Red Letter Day prize and bottle of champagne from the company.

Leasedrive Velo builds on its impressive blue chip client portfolio with Davis Langdon win

Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has won a competitive tender to supply leading project and cost management consultancy Davis Langdon with contract hire and fleet management services. The contract initially covers 260 contract hire drivers and 170 fleet managed vehicles for the company's partners.

Two in a row for Leasedrive Velo at the TVB Awards 2007

Last night Leasedrive Velo, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, won the 'Business Management Team' Award for the second year in a row at the 2007 Thames Valley Business Magazine Awards. Now in their 13th year, the awards recognise the "best of business" in the Thames Valley, second only to the City of London as the most important and successful business region in the UK. The awards are acknowledged as the premier multi-category awards scheme in the region and The Business Management Team award, sponsored by the Royal Bank of Scotland, is presented to an outstanding management team that demonstrates a truly go-ahead, enlightened, innovative, and forward-thinking approach.

Leasedrive Velo named 'UK Independent Vehicle Management Company 2007' by ITM

Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has been named 'UK Independent Vehicle Management Company 2007' by the Institute of Transport Management (ITM). The award is for the company judged to have provided the best overall vehicle management service.

Nobilas signs new improved rental agreement with Leasedrive Velo

Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has signed a new larger contract with Nobilas UK, the leading accident management provider, to supply rental vehicles in support of accident claims.

New improved Rental:Manager online booking tool launched

Leasedrive Velo Rental Management, one of the largest corporate providers of short and mid-term vehicle rental with access to 127,470 vehicles from 826 locations in the UK including airports, has launched a new version of Rental:Manager, the online vehicle rental booking tool. Improved features include a quicker user interface, live amendments, increased security and customised reporting. Rental:Manager allows customers to complete a simple value-for-money vehicle rental booking process in less than two minutes.

Bonar floored by Leasedrive Velo price transparency

Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has won a competitive tender to supply Bonar Floors, a global leader in high performance flooring solutions, with a finance lease service linked to actual cost maintenance. The contract for Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo vehicles covers 85 company car drivers.

Bull latest addition to Leasedrive Velo's IT fleet portfolio

Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, has been awarded sole supplier status in the UK by Bull, one of Europe's leading IT companies, and will manage over 60 company car drivers and 75 'opt-out' drivers. New vehicles will be sourced from Peugeot, Saab and Vauxhall.

Leasedrive Velo launches Stopgap Plus

Leasedrive Velo, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has launched a new long-term product, Stopgap Plus, for vehicle rentals of 90 days or more.

Tony Johnston leaves Leasedrive Velo

Tony Johnston, formerly chief operating officer, has left Leasedrive Velo with immediate effect.

Leasedrive and VELO merge to form Leasedrive Velo

The Leasedrive Group and VELO have merged to form Leasedrive Velo, now the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK. The new company has a combined vehicle fleet of around 17,500 cars.

VELO Survey Reveals New Optimism for UK Fleets

A national survey of UK businesses by VELO, the Marlow-based independent vehicle management specialist, has revealed that economic optimism seems to be fuelling a renaissance in the company car.

Leasedrive wins 'Business Management Team' Award at 2006 Thames Valley Business Magazine Awards

The Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, has won the 'Business Management Team' Award at the 2006 Thames Valley Business Magazine Awards. Now in their 12th year, the awards recognise the "best of business" in the Thames Valley and are acknowledged as the premier multi-category awards scheme in the region. The Business Management Team award, sponsored by the Royal Bank of Scotland, is presented to an outstanding management team that demonstrates a truly go-ahead, enlightened, innovative, and forward-thinking approach.

Leasedrive wins 'Leasing/Rental Company of the Year' at 2006 GreenFleet Awards

The Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, has won the 'Leasing/Rental Company of the Year' Award at the 2006 GreenFleet Awards. The award is presented to the company judged to have made the most significant contribution to reducing the environmental impact of transport through: green fleet management and procurement, consultative practice, project management, partnerships, product design/technical innovation, training initiatives and information campaigns.

Countrywide extends Ofsted deal for further two years

Countrywide Car and Van Rental, one of the largest short-term corporate vehicle rental distributors in the UK, has extended its deal with the Office For Standards in Education (Ofsted) by another two years.

Going green won't cost the earth

Social and environmental issues have been big news for fleets in recent years. The government's commitment to reduce CO2 emissions under the Kyoto Protocol has lead to changes in taxation, with the aim of encouraging fleets to operate greener vehicles. Efforts to reduce road traffic have led to congestion charging in London and the increasing likelihood of national road pricing. The threat of corporate manslaughter legislation has forced companies to think more carefully about the safety of their employees and the public at large. Moreover, with Corporate Social Responsibility - or CSR - becoming an ever hotter topic at board level, the need for companies to take voluntary measures that exceed the minimum legislative requirements is growing.

Employee Benefits

While many incentive schemes can produce significant results in the short term, they can often reduce as the impact of the reward lessens over time. Consistency of message to drivers is paramount to an incentive scheme's continuing success; historically this message has been from a financial perspective, encouraging drivers to be efficient for the sake of the organisation's profitability. However, in light of British industry's increasing Corporate Social Responsibility focus, the message has been added further weight by the clear contribution of transport road movements have had to increasing carbon emissions. Furthermore, there is a clear connection between drivers with good fuel economy and drivers with a low accident rate. In short economical drivers are safer drivers.

Leasedrive Group 'maximises the HR value' of Ceridian's fleet business

Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, has won the business to supply contract hire and fleet management services to Ceridian, one of the largest providers of human resource services in the world. The sole-supply contract covers a fleet of around 130 contract hire vehicles and 130 cash-for-car drivers. Vehicle supply is predominantly BMW and Mercedes. More significantly, both companies are exploring the opportunities that a strategic alliance could provide clients in the areas of enhanced car, fleet, and risk management related services within an HR context.

Greener Fleets

The Kyoto Protocol on climate change has set an agreed framework for developed countries that by 2005 to 2012 they would reduce their annual greenhouse gas emissions by amounts that in aggregate represent a reduction of 5.2 per cent from the 1990 level.

Leasedrive launches Carbon:Manager to assist clients towards running a 'greener' fleet

The Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, has teamed up with leading climate change business The CarbonNeutral Company to launch Carbon:Manager, allowing company car drivers to offset their CO2 emissions to become CarbonNeutral drivers.

Countrywide adds fizz to Britvic's rental needs

Countrywide Car and Van Rental, one of the largest short-term corporate vehicle rental distributors in the UK, has won a vehicle rental supply contract with Britvic Soft Drinks, one of the two leading soft drinks businesses in the UK.

Leasedrive 'secures' De La Rue fleet management contract

De La Rue, the world's largest commercial security printer and papermaker, has appointed the Leasedrive Group, the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group, to provide a complete fleet management service for its operations in the UK.

Capgemini one of biggest account wins ever for Leasedrive Group

Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, has won one of its biggest contract hire and fleet management accounts - Capgemini, one of the world's foremost providers of consulting, technology and outsourcing services. The sole-supply contract covers around 1,000 UK company car drivers with the potential to rise to 4,500.

Leasedrive an ITM Recommended Industry Supplier

The Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, has been accredited as a 'Recommended Industry Supplier' by the Institute of Transport Management following a survey that was conducted among the Institute's members. Respondents nominated companies from which they have received excellent service.

Mid-term vehicle rentals continue to gain in popularity

According to specialist supplier, Stopgap Mid-term Vehicle Rental, more companies are recognising the financial benefits of mid-term rental vehicles over pool or company cars. The company reported an 81 per cent increase in the total number of mid-term rental days sold in 2005 over the previous year. In 2004, the rise was 37 per cent.

Company car drivers willing to go green reveals Leasedrive survey

A survey on company car drivers' attitudes by the Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, reveals their willingness to go green. At 93.8 per cent, a huge majority declared that they would be willing to drive an eco-friendly vehicle if all service stations provided adequate refuelling facilities.

Company car drivers strongly opposed to congestion charging reveals Leasedrive survey

A survey on company car drivers' attitudes by the Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, reveals they are strongly opposed to congestion charging but are more in favour of replacing the existing road tax by a 'pay-as-you go' charge. The survey showed that 84.8% are against congestion charge schemes being extended to all major towns and cities. However, 54.3% were in favour of 'pay-as-you-go' mileage charge schemes.

Leasedrive survey reveals half of company car drivers want motorway speed limits to remain the same

A survey on company car drivers' attitudes to speed limits by Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, reveals a 50:50 split between those who want to see motorway speed limits raised and those who want them to remain the same. However, when it comes to speed limits in urban areas, an overwhelming 80.5% want the 30mph speed limit retained.

Leasedrive Wins 2006 Fleet News Award

At last night's 2006 Fleet News Awards, Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, won the prestigious 'Best Contract Hire/Fleet Management Company' Award. The award is for the company judged to provide the best all-round service, product range, cost effectiveness and support for fleet customers and their drivers.

Leasedrive Diversifies with Scope

Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, has won the contract to provide fleet management to Scope, the national disability organisation whose focus is people with cerebral palsy. The contract covers 340 vehicles and includes accident management and short-term vehicle rental.

Car Rental - The Cheaper Business Mileage Option

Countrywide Car and Van Rental, one of the largest short-term corporate vehicle rental distributors in the UK, believes that many companies are over-looking the tremendous savings to be achieved by using car rental. Compared to reimbursing an employee business mileage for using their own vehicle, the provision of a daily rental vehicle could easily represent a 400% saving.

Leasedrive 'Partners' PwC

The Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, has won the PricewaterhouseCoopers partner car scheme for UK partners. The new contract purchase agreement covers 600 cars of choice including top marques such as Aston Martin, Bentley and Porsche. The contract also extends to the provision of a second car scheme and accident management.

Leasedrive predicts move back to company cars

Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, predicts a significant move back to company cars in 2006 and beyond.

Leasedrive drives for even greater customer excellence

Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, has embarked on a new customer service excellence programme. The 'i develop - going the extra mile' programme, organised and run by Human Horizons, is currently being attended by all employees including directors and will be on-going over the next year.

Countrywide 'Ship Shape' for Carnival

Countrywide Car and Van Rental, one of the largest short-term corporate vehicle rental distributors in the UK, has won the contract to service the vehicle rental requirements of all eligible crew working for Carnival UK, part of the largest and most popular cruise line in the world. Carnival UK is the parent company of P&O Cruises, operators of Britain's latest £200m superliner, Arcadia, which was launched on April 12 this year.

SunGard Vivista appoints Countrywide as preferred supplier

Countrywide Car and Van Rental, one of the largest short-term corporate vehicle rental distributors in the UK, has been appointed as the preferred supplier for vehicle rental across the UK by SunGard Vivista, supplier of ICT and business support products, systems and services.

Countrywide wins major UKAEA vehicle rental supply contract

Countrywide Car and Van Rental, one of the largest short-term corporate vehicle rental distributors in the UK, has won a major three-year vehicle rental supply contract with the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA).

Marie Curie switches to Leasedrive

Leasedrive Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has won the tender to provide a contract hire service to cancer charity, Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Leasedrive Wins Microsoft Vendor Programme Award

Leasedrive Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has been named as the winner of the Technology Excellence Award at the Microsoft Vendor Programme UK Excellence Awards 2005.

Roddy Graham, commercial director, observed: "Since global technology brands do not come any bigger than Microsoft, this is the highest accolade for our fully-integrated, bespoke online Drive:Manager fleet management system! It has to be the greatest third party endorsement for a cutting-edge system which we always stated would set new benchmark standards for operational and customer service quality in the industry."

Commenting on the awards, Paul Hart financial director at Microsoft UK commented: "The investment in technology by Leasedrive has driven real value for them and for Microsoft. The implementation of a new web site and user interface completely transformed their ability to provide an effective car solution offering, which is being hosted entirely on Windows Server 2003 technology. I welcome Leasedrive's forward thinking and continued focus on technology innovations."

The Microsoft Vendor Programme (MSVP), which was launched in the UK in 2003, was created to make it easy for Microsoft employees to work with a pre-qualified, select group of vendors and for vendors to work with Microsoft. As a leading employer in the UK, Microsoft believes it has a responsibility to treat its suppliers with respect and consideration, giving them as much information as they need in order to have a productive working relationship. The Awards have been established to reward those companies who have embraced this Microsoft initiative and proved themselves as a trusted and preferred supplier.

There are five categories in the Microsoft Vendor Programme Awards:

Countrywide Launches Rental:Manager Online Booking Facility

A new generic version of Rental:Manager, the online vehicle rental booking tool originally created by the Leasedrive Group for its blue chip contract hire clients, has been developed for customers of its Countrywide Car and Van Rental division. Thanks to simple and easy navigation, customers of one of the UK's largest short-term corporate vehicle rental distributors can complete the three-stage value-for-money vehicle rental booking process in minutes.

Leasedrive Good News for UK's Largest Newsagents' Chain

Leasedrive Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has won the contract to provide a fleet management and maintenance service to TM Retail, the UK's largest chain of newsagents. TM Retail trades under the Forbuoys, Martin, RS McColl and Dillon high street brands.

John Lewis Partnership Opts for Drive:Manager

The John Lewis Partnership, one of the UK's top ten retailers, has become one of the first companies to opt for Drive:Manager from the Leasedrive Group to support its back office fleet management function. By using Drive:Manager, the bespoke online total fleet management solution, the John Lewis Partnership aims to more effectively manage in-house its current circa 1000-strong vehicle fleet of company cars.

VELO conference celebrates calibre of customer base

Leading independent vehicle leasing and fleet management specialists VELO's has heralded its annual conference as a huge success.

Leasedrive Wins Major Somerfield Contract

Leasedrive Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has won the tender to provide a complete fleet management service to the Somerfield Group.

Neopost Stamps Contract with Leasedrive

Neopost, Europe's number one supplier of mailroom equipment, has rubber stamped a deal with the Leasedrive Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups, to provide a complete fleet management service in the UK.

Leasedrive Group measures up to Lloyd's Register quality standards

Lloyd's Register Group, the independent risk management organisation, has appointed the Leasedrive Group, the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK, as its new contract hire supplier. The sole-supply contract covers a fleet of around 400 contract hire vehicles and includes accident management and short-term vehicle rental.

Mid-term Vehicle Rentals Gaining in Popularity

According to specialist supplier, Stopgap Mid-term Vehicle Rental, more companies are recognising the financial benefits of mid-term rental vehicles over pool or company cars. The company reported a 37% increase in the total number of mid-term rental days sold in 2004 over the previous year.

Face to Face: Leasedrive Group

The following article appeared in the January 13th 2005 issue of Fleet News:

Countrywide Supports West Ham

Countrywide Car and Van Rental, one of the largest short-term corporate vehicle rental distributors in the UK, has agreed to supply two Ford Focus loan cars to West Ham United Football Club to assist its Football in the Community programme. The agreement is for an initial one-year period.

Alec Stewart Officially Opens New Leasedrive Group HQ

Alec Stewart OBE, England's most capped cricketer ever, has officially opened Leasedrive Group's new hi-tech offices at TRL in Wokingham, Berkshire.

Fleets should prepare for 4x4 backlash - 'go anywhere' could take on new meaning

The developing debate over the social and environmental acceptability of 4x4, so-called off-road vehicles, should be heeded by fleet operators, warns Tony Johnston, chief executive of VELO.

RBI Launch Driveaway ECO Scheme

Leasedrive Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has won a three-year contract to provide an all employee car ownership scheme for the employees of Reed Business Information. Following the win, a low-cost car scheme, Driveaway, has just been launched and is open to all 2,200 employees in the UK.

ICFM Launches Leasedrive Scholarship

At the Institute of Car Fleet Management Conference, a new scholarship scheme sponsored by Leasedrive Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, was unveiled. The first recipient of the inaugural scholarship is Sally Armstrong, an administration specialist at Denso Sales UK Limited. Sally will be the first of a series of trainees embarking on the fast-track course to achieve the Institute of Car Fleet Management accreditation.

Leasedrive Retains Microsoft After Global Review

Leasedrive Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has retained its exclusive fleet supply and driver management deal with Microsoft Limited. This follows a six-month in-depth supplier review conforming to a new global procurement strategy. The deal, with one of the UK's leading employers, is for three years.

Countrywide Wins Companies House Contract

Countrywide Car and Van Rental, one of the largest short-term corporate vehicle rental distributors in the UK, has been re-appointed as the sole-supplier to Companies House, following a tender process involving six car rental providers.

Fleets should factor fuel price hike into costs - but how many are?

Turmoil in the oil supply industry has seen petrol and diesel forecourt prices rise by around eight per cent during the last year, but how many fleets are reacting to nullify the increase, asks Tony Johnston, chief executive of vehicle leasing and fleet management specialist VELO?

Leasedrive Consolidates Partnership with KeeResources

Leasedrive Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has consolidated its partnership with KeeResources after successfully running the latter's KwikView car and van database and KwikCreate forecasting software products for the past 12 months.

Leasedrive Group Move to New headquarters

Leasedrive Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has moved to brand new hi-tech offices at TRL in Wokingham, Berkshire. The move sees the separate operations of Leasedrive Vehicle Management, Countrywide Car and Van Rental and Stopgap Mid-Term Vehicle Rental all brought under one roof.

Leasedrive Signs Driveaway Deal with Orange

Leasedrive Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has been appointed by Orange as the supplier of choice for the implementation and launch of Driveaway, a low cost car scheme for all UK-based employees. The new scheme is in addition to the exclusive vehicle leasing and rental agreement in place since 1995. Driveaway went live on July 19 and will benefit up to 14,000 Orange employees, including those not entitled to a company car or cash allowance.

Countrywide Wins 3M Vehicle Rental Business

Countrywide Car and Van Rental, one of the largest short-term corporate vehicle rental distributors in the UK, has become the preferred supplier for vehicle rental business for 3M United Kingdom PLC following a recent e-bidding event.

Leasedrive Signs Exclusive Deal with Grant Thornton

Leasedrive Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has signed an exclusive fleet supplier deal with Grant Thornton, leading business and financial advisers.

Drive:Manager Sets New Benchmark Standards

Leasedrive Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has launched Drive:Manager, a new bespoke online total vehicle management service. Offering all-round operational efficiencies, the fully-integrated web-based solution covers all key areas of fleet management. These include company vehicle policy, vehicle comparisons, vehicle quotations, vehicle ordering, vehicle maintenance booking, authorisations, payments and management reporting.

Leasedrive Signs Preferred Supplier Deal with Kwik-Fit

Leasedrive Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has signed a preferred supplier deal with Kwik-Fit Fleet, the UK's largest fast-fit provider. The contract provides for the provision of tyre safety checks at client premises as well as a replacement tyre service.

Countrywide Strengthens Sales Team

Countrywide Car and Van Rental, the second largest short-term corporate vehicle rental distributor in the UK, has strengthened its sales team with four new appointments. David Meaden and Andrew Shacklady join as corporate account managers, Matthew Oates as regional sales manager for the south east and John Hunter as regional sales manager for the south west region.

Simmonds Appointed UK Business Development Manager

Leasedrive Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, has appointed Sarah Simmonds as a UK business development manager.

New Lexus LS430 The Perfect Catch For Alec Stewart

Alec Stewart, England's most capped cricketer ever, has taken delivery of a brand-new Lexus LS430. The Leasedrive Group, with the support of Lexus, has supplied the car.

Huge Interest in New Responsibility Driver Management Service

Responsibility is a new business driver management service launched by the Leasedrive Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK. The service is designed to assist companies in meeting their 'duty of care' responsibilities where employees use their own car on company business. It is an end-to-end solution from a professional health and safety audit to a full suite of business driver management services.

Countrywide Launches Consolidated Van Rental Offer

Countrywide Car and Van Rental, the second largest short-term corporate vehicle rental distributor in the UK, has consolidated its preferred supplier partnerships and van rental offer.

Ian Botham's Valleys Walk 2003 Raises £430,000

Ian Botham's Valleys Walk 2003, supported by the Leasedrive Group, raised £430,000 for the Noah's Ark Appeal to equip the first Children's Hospital for Wales. The group provided four cars and three vans for the nine-day walk last October.

Countrywide Celebrates 10th Anniversary with Alec Stewart

Countrywide Vehicle Management Limited, part of the Leasedrive Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, celebrated its 10th anniversary at the Oval this month in the company of Alec Stewart, England's most capped cricketer ever. Alec retired from first class cricket this year to focus on his business interests and has signed a promotional deal with the Leasedrive Group for 2004.

Howick Promoted to Countrywide Sales Director

Joe Howick has been promoted to the newly-created position of sales director at Countrywide Vehicle Management Limited, part of the Leasedrive Group. Based in Crowthorne, Berkshire, the Leasedrive Group is one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups.

Farrell Appointed Director of Business Development

Sean Farrell has joined the Leasedrive Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, in the newly created position of director of business development.

Lenton Promoted to Marketing Manager

Matt Lenton has been promoted to the position of marketing manager at the Leasedrive Group, one of the UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups. Based in Crowthorne, Berkshire, the Leasedrive Group was the subject of a £45m BIMBO transaction in May.

Leasedrive Supports Ian Botham's Valleys Walk 2003

Leasedrive Group, one of the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management groups in the UK, is supporting Ian Botham's Valleys Walk 2003 to raise money for the Noah's Ark Appeal to build and equip the first Children's Hospital for Wales. The group is providing four cars and three vans for the duration of Ian Botham's nine-day Valleys Walk 2003 in October.

Graham in Training For Ian Botham's Valleys Walk 2003

Leasedrive Group's commercial director, Roddy Graham is in training for the ninth and final leg of Ian Botham's Valleys Walk 2003 between Cwmbran and Newport. Former England cricketer and TV commentator, Botham is bidding to raise nearly a £1m towards the Noah's Ark Appeal to build and equip the first Children's Hospital for Wales.

Bowen Appointed UK Business Development Manager

Leasedrive Group has recently appointed Karen Bowen to the new position of UK business development manager. Commercial director, Roddy Graham, said: "The appointment of Karen Bowen represents the second key management appointment since we bought the business. At the time, we stated that we wanted to grow the business and have created the first of two new business development positions. Karen brings with her a wealth of experience in employee car ownership, a service which we will be offering to clients very shortly. Karen's infectious enthusiasm for our future business prospects matches our own excitement and she will undoubtedly make a valuable contribution to our growth."

Leasedrive Establishes New Fleet Management Division

Leasedrive Group, the subject of a recent BIMBO transaction valued at £45m, has established a separate fleet management division, which will be headed up by new appointee, Ivor Johnson as general manager. This follows the declaration from the Leasedrive Group that it is aiming to build a world class fleet management service capability, backed by the finest asset management system and pioneering web-based customer service technology.

Nissan Forges Partnership with Leasedrive

Nissan GB has agreed a ten vehicle contract with Leasedrive Vehicle Management, the UK's largest privately owned vehicle management group.

Countrywide appoints two new regional sales managers

Countrywide Vehicle Management has strengthened its sales team with the appointment of two new regional sales managers - Neil Pagnam for the North and Craig Best for the Midlands. They report to Countrywide sales manager, Joe Howick.

Eversheds Advises Leasedrive Holdings

Law firm Eversheds acted for the new management team of Leasedrive Holdings on its recent management buy-in/buy-out. Mark Spinner, head of private equity, led the Eversheds team. He comments:

Leasedrive makes major systems investments

Leasedrive Group, the subject of a recent BIMBO transaction valued at £45m, has just signed two major IT contracts. By the autumn, Leasedrive aims to have built a world class fleet management service capability. The first contract signed is with CHP Consulting for the provision of ALFA, the market leading solution for the asset finance, consumer finance and automotive finance industries. ALFA systems will be used to provide critical support for the group's contract hire and fleet management business processes. The second contract is with epyx, the leading automotive software specialist, to develop a bespoke range of pioneering online customer services.

Leasedrive sold to new management team

Leasedrive Holdings UK, based in Crowthorne, Berkshire has been sold to a new management team led by incumbent managing director, Roger Partridge in a transaction valued at £45m. Grant Thornton Corporate Finance acted as advisers. The BIMBO transaction is supported by Bank of Scotland Corporate Finance.