RELATIONSHIPS between the country’s fleets and their contract hire suppliers is improving, according to the 2006 ‘Fleet Contract Hire Survey’ from FNN sister-title, Sewell’s Information & Research.

This unique, annual survey focuses on the key issues that drive fleet’s satisfaction with their contract hire and leasing suppliers, issues that also have a big influence on which contract hire suppliers fleet managers give their business to, and which they would avoid.

The Sewells’ survey looks at the elements of what makes the business relationship between fleets and their contract hire suppliers work – from the initial vehicle quotation to supplying the vehicle, ongoing driver and logistical back-up, returning the vehicle at the end of the agreement, and effective management and administration support.

Nearly 1,000 fleets took part in the survey, between them operating around a quarter of a million vehicles – revealing exactly what they felt they needed on the contract hire front to help them run their company car fleet, and their own company, effectively and efficiently.

At the outset, fleet managers look to their leasing suppliers to thoroughly understand their business’ needs, provide a speedy, competitive quotation and, where appropriate, supply reliable information and sound advice. They also, critically, expect their vehicles to be delivered where and when promised, in excellent quality and condition.

The 2005 ‘Fleet Contract Hire Survey’ shows fleet operators believe Arnold Clark Finance, Lloyds TSB autolease, Appleyard Vehicle Contract and Inchcape Fleet Solutions offer the best all round products and services, and that Peugeot Contract Hire and GE Commercial have made the most improvement during the last 12 months. Overall, three times as many fleets think the contract hire industry is improving its support for them as those who believe it is slipping back.

The Sewells ‘Fleet Contract Hire Survey’ provides the contract hire industry with an invaluable insight into fleet operators’ funding and fleet management requirements, how they live up to fleets’ needs and expectations – and where to focus to significantly improve their all-round service and support to the fleet sector.

For more information on Sewells’ ‘Fleet Contract Hire Survey’ please call Berta Collins on 01733 468270 or email berta.collins@emap.com