THIS week the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association celebrates its 30th birthday. Since its formation in 1967 the association has consistently defended the interests of its members, lobbying and educating Governments on legislation which would affect rental and leasing companies. Freddie Aldous, BVRLA president since 1984, said: 'From the beginning competitors have worked together on behalf of the industry, and that culture has continued to this day.'

Among advantages, members have benefited from the HFP scheme which protects rental companies against bad risk hirers, a code of conduct to inspire customer confidence and the Statistical and Residual Value surveys. Key successes include the BVRLA Vehicle Security Award, and a City & Guilds training programme and examination in Rental Operator Skills.

There are now 1,200 BVRLA members controlling some 1.4 million vehicles, and responsible for an annual spend in excess of £10 billion, including the purchase of 770,000 vehicles every year. More than 85% of all rental, leasing and contract hire companies in the UK are members of the BVRLA.