FLEET managers are heeding the training message and signing up for professional qualifications in increasing numbers. Fleet management training companies are experiencing a significant upturn in demand as fleet managers respond to the challenges facing them in an increasingly professional market. Both Fleet Audits and the Institute of Car Fleet Management have reported higher bookings - particularly on their advanced courses - in recent months.

Fleet Audits training manager Chris Chandler said there had been an influx of candidates from medium and large fleets in the public and private sectors. He said: 'This increase in interest may be signalling an enhanced awareness of the very real benefits such training courses can give and the costs savings that can arise from extended knowledge of the fleet market and efficient fleet management.'

David Lee, chairman of the Institute of Car Fleet Management's training and education committee, said there had been a significant increase in demand for the Institute's advanced courses. 'People are sitting up and taking notice,' said Lee. 'I think the message is getting through because people are seeing outsourcing continuing and people still losing their jobs. Having a formal qualification isn't just an insurance policy against this, it's another string to your bow if you do lose your job and need to find another.'