KWIK-FIT Group-owned FTM Tyrefit is to cease trading from the end of February and its operations will be merged with its parent firm in the latest stage of a business overhaul at the fast-fit giant.

The move, announced on Monday, follows last month's completion of the acquisition of Europe's largest independent fast-fit company by CVC Capital Partners from the Ford Motor Company.

As a result, FTM call centre activities based in Tannochside, Edinburgh, will be integrated into Kwik-Fit Fleet, which will also take over responsibility for FTM's outsourced business.

Major companies which have outsourced their services to FTM include GE Capital Fleet Services, Godfrey Davis, Lombard, Avis Rent a Car, Fiat Auto Contracts, and Fleetlease.

Mike Wise, who was appointed fleet sales director of Kwik-Fit immediately following the acquisition and heads up FTM, said: 'As a result of the integration of call centre activities we will be in a position to enhance the current comprehensive Kwik-Fit package with additional products and services.

'Fleets will now be able to access a range of Kwik-Fit services though one call centre which enhances our business proposition.'

Wise added: 'Our fleet customers can be assured that our normal high levels of service will be maintained. I expect the transition to be seamless. I have a number of plans to further develop our business offering in the fleet sector and I look forward to discussing these developments with both new and existing clients.'

Kwik-Fit has also announced plans to enhance its service and product range to fleet customers from January 1, 2003.