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EMAP Automotive, the parent company of Fleet News, has announced it no longer plans to hold the Fleet Show in September after the level of manufacturer support failed to reach expectations due to continued economic uncertainty and the war in Iraq.

The decision was made this week following in-depth talks throughout the industry about the show, which was due to take place on September 23, 24 and 25 at Silverstone race circuit.

Several major manufacturers including BMW, Renault, Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, and Mazda had signed up for the event, along with a string of service companies.

As well as being supported by Fleet News, the show was also backed by the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association, representing companies that operate more than 2 million vehicles.

This week, David Goodchild, publisher of Fleet News for Emap Automotive, said: 'We would like to thank all the manufacturers and service companies that offered their support for hosting an industry show this year.

'From extensive consultation with fleet decision-makers over the past two years, we felt we had created the event that they wanted, incorporating driving, exhibitions and seminars on key fleet issues.

'In order to stage the event, however, we needed widespread industry commitment. Many companies supported us, but others were unable to fully commit, citing continuing economic uncertainty and the war in Iraq. As a result we have decided to postpone the event until further notice.'

He added that Emap Automotive already runs established and massively well attended shows such as Max Power Live, the London Classic Motor Show and the annual 'fleet Oscars', the Fleet News Awards. He also said that Fleet News still plans to continue its programme of other popular events planned for the rest of the year.

Goodchild added: 'The role of Fleet News is to support fleet decision-makers by providing them with up-to-date information and advice, either through the publication or events, to help them to carry out their roles effectively.

'We remain absolutely committed to the industry and fleet-decision makers can rest assured that we will announce further fleet events in the near future.'

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