DHL Supply Chain’s specialist automotive sales and marketing support business, Inside Track, has been awarded a three year contract to manage Volkswagen Group UK's press fleet operations.

The contract covers the preparation, delivery and collection of the press vehicles for the Volkswagen Passenger Car and Commercial Vehicles, Audi, Seat and Škoda brands.

Under the new agreement, DHL will provide a wide range of vehicle services including fleet management, specialist vehicle preparation (including technical and latest body repair techniques), vehicle inspection and logistics.

Paul Buckett, Volkswagen Group UK’s head of press and  public relations, said: "The press fleet plays a critical role in our media relations activities, and having it closer to the head office will enable us to give journalists a better brand experience. Bringing our press cars to Milton Keynes has been a long held ambition and this change will serve us well for the future."

Operations will be based at a new facility in Milton Keynes, comprising a 33,000 sq ft workshop equipped with the latest technical and repair equipment, a secure vehicle compound and a covered area for valeting.  Located close to Volkswagen Group UK’s head office and training centre, the building also includes excellent office accommodation.

A team of around 60 employees will be based at the Press Fleet Centre, including customer service and technical specialists, body repairers, inspectors and delivery drivers. Key to the success of the service will be training in all aspects of the Group’s brands and products.

Colin Stokes, managing director of DHL’s Inside Track business, added: "This is an exciting opportunity for us. We are committed to delivering a first class customer experience through our centre of excellence for the Volkswagen Group. The key to our success is to build a fantastic team in Milton Keynes who are fully aligned with our customer’s goals and who share a strong team working culture."