INDEPENDENT daily rental firms struggling to compete against large companies are being targeted in a 'big brother' venture by Flightform - the UK licensing arm of Thrifty Car Rental. Vehicle Rental Services is offering to supply rental products and services to small operators without the franchisee norm of loss of business identity and independent branding.

A Thrifty Car Rental spokesman said: 'This package gives independents the chance to compete with larger operators. It is also ideal for someone who wants to set up a new car rental company, but doesn't want to start with a franchise.'

So far five firms have signed up to the service, with four others in negotiations. However the ultimate aim of VRS is to expand to a network of about 100 licencees.

The VRS package includes insurance, supply of new and nearly new vehicles, national reservations and computer software. All vehicles are supported by a fleet management package.