VEHICLE service is a rapidly developing area and one which needs to be kept under control by the cost and efficiency conscious fleet operator. According to the latest Tolley survey, while franchised dealers continue to hold the upper hand in the fleet servicing market, used by 73% of fleets, 67% of fleets now also use non-franchised outlets.

Fleet requirements for convenience and cost savings are apparent in the proportion of fleets expecting franchised dealerships to service vehicles of any marque (45%) and the growth of mobile servicing, now used by 22% of fleets.

The survey advises fleet operators looking to review service policy to address two key issues. First, would there be any economic advantage in using non-franchise dealers and what would it do for warranty? And secondly, what is the best way to select a non-franchise garage and monitor its performance?