It's been a challenging time for the fleet industry but more than 700 contract hire and leasing companies, manufacturers and suppliers attended the premier networking event of 2009, the Fleet News FN50.

The atmosphere was surprisingly bouyant with many people expecting a signifcant pick up in the industry next year. Access to funding is forecast to ease and companies are expected to start replacing cars and vans again.

One senior leasing company boss told Fleet News: "The past year has been a nightmare but we are seeing things ease a bit in recent weeks. We are confident that next year will be a significant improvement with more companies back in the market."

The highlight of the evening was the reveal of the FN50, the annual guide to the largest leasing companies in the UK. The night also featured a detailed analysis of the state of the fleet industry and a look at the key issues facing suppliers and their customers.

Click here to see the list.

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