Fiat is launching a dealer-based fleet specialist programme with the aim of growing sales among small to medium-sized businesses.

In common with many volume manufacturers, Fiat has identified the small fleet sector as a key area for growth in the corporate sector and believes the potential customer base runs into the hundreds of thousands of companies.

Its new Dealer Fleet Specialist programme is in the process of being implemented at 10 dealers, and will eventually grow to 15.

Each dealer will be set a local fleet sales target, employ a dedicated fleet sales person and run a corporate demonstrator fleet.

Finance training will also be provided, as will a collection and delivery service for customer vehicles.

Fiat’s fleet and remarketing director Adam Pumfrey said: “Having more contact with local companies and dealer staff who are trained to manage the needs of smaller fleets, should see greater awareness of the Fiat range and ultimately increase sales.”