BRITAIN'S biggest contract hire company, Lex Vehicle Leasing, has transformed itself into a one-stop fleet shop with the launch of a dedicated fuel card and a full insurance package. The two new services - launched in conjunction with Shell and fleet insurance specialist Brian Johnston Insurance respectively - complete the portfolio of services from Lex Vehicle Leasing, which operates more than 70,000 vehicles on contract hire.

Lex Vehicle Leasing's own brand fuel card will be launched this month and the company hopes around 10% of its fleet will opt for the card in the first 12 months. Accepted at 4,500 fuel stations in the UK, including all Shell, Esso and motorway sites, fleets will benefit from reduced fuel costs by using the card and will be provided with a series of management reports each month.

The second service, branded as Lex Insurance Services, sees the introduction of a complete range of insurance options integrated closely with Lex Accident Management to provide hassle-free claims administration. A range of insurance services are available through seven insurers and in future months, gap insurance will also be offered.

Meanwhile, following last week's story that employee-sponsored personal leasing and contract purchase schemes were set to boom, it has been revealed that Lex Vehicle Leasing is currently working on a whole range of personal contract purchase products which are expected to be launched later this year.