LEASE Plan has launched a new division to target the small fleet sector, including the courtesy car market. Business Direct will focus on fleets that run fewer than 30 vehicles and offer a product that in most instances can be managed and conducted over the telephone.

Tim Buchan, Lease Plan's sales director, said: 'Business Direct is a VAT efficient contract hire programme which takes care of the supply of all vehicles, insurance, road tax, servicing and maintenance.' Richard Jenkins has been appointed manager of Business Direct and will oversee six territory managers.