THE European car leasing market is set for strong growth according to research company MarketLine International. In its latest survey 'European Car Leasing: Future Prospects & Challenges 1996-2000', MarketLine said the recession had prompted many larger companies to reconsider their acquisition methods.

'On a pan-European level, larger companies are increasingly seeking to source their requirements within the dimensions of Europe as a whole,' said the report. 'This has led to new and formidable challenges for leasing companies across Europe and has spurred both direct expansion through subsidiaries as well as cross-border alliances.'

The UK is by far the most developed market, but along with the Netherlands, has the slowest growth rate. Southern Europe has witnessed explosive growth - a trend which MarketLine believes is set to continue. The UK and Irish markets currently account for more than 50% of Europe's lease car fleet - which translates to 2,389,925 units - and MarketLine is predicting the strongest growth to come from Portugal and Spain.

MarketLine International's report 'European Car Leasing: Future Prospects & Challenges 1996-2000' costs £495 and is available from MarketLine International, 16 Connaught Street, London, W2 2AF. Telephone 0171 624 2200.