THE contract hire and leasing industry is gearing up for a very healthy August. Ian Wardle, Ford Credit Europe's manager, fleet and leasing, said Ford Contract Motoring was gearing up for a busy August, after a period of reorganisation and restructuring. Further signs of a bright outlook came from John Given, Autolease's sales director, who said August orders had a higher than average percentage of prestige and executive cars, and overall there were indications of drivers being given more choice.

Tony Williams, general manager of Vauxhall Master Hire Leasing, spoke for many when he concluded: 'There has never been a better time to contract hire a car. Interest rates are low, deals are there to be done, and the value for money is excellent.'