FAST-fit firm Fit4Fleet has opened 50 new centres after expanding its operation across Ireland, bringing the total number of outlets to 900.

The group, which is part of General Motors, has increased the number of centres as part of a development programme which also includes a new 24-hour hotline and an electronic mapping service which links drivers to their nearest centres, thus reducing response times.

Dominic Bateson, managing director at Fit4Fleet, said: 'Most of the tyre chains that have traditionally serviced fleet drivers are around the main conurbations. One of our core objectives has been to establish a comprehensive spread of centres throughout the Republic, so that when a driver has a problem, assistance can be provided promptly.'