PHARMACEUTICAL giant Pfizer Inc, best known for its Viagra drug, has signed a three-year global fleet agreement with General Motors. The contract will cover 12,000 Pfizer vehicles, both cars and commercial vehicles, driven by the company's worldwide sales force, including company cars in the UK.

Ron Sarno, Pfizer's director of procurement, said: 'We are hoping to save on costs and increase our ability to serve our customers. GM is large enough to effectively deliver quality vehicles globally, and it can provide top dealer support anywhere in the world.'

The deal illustrates an industry trend to minimise fleet costs through global purchasing, according to David Hansen, GM fleet and commercial operations general manager. 'International companies, like Pfizer and General Motors, are learning that new levels of efficiency can be obtained and distinct business advantages can be gained with global agreements,' he said.