PHARMACEUTICAL and vitamin manufacturer Roche Products has decided to switch its 400-strong car fleet from outright purchase to leasing in a multi-million pound deal with Lease Plan. The contract will involve the immediate sale and leaseback of more than 200 cars, and the fleet management of a further 190 cars which will be replaced by leased vehicles over the next 18 months.

Chris Bennett, Roche Products' human resources director, said cost savings had driven the change from outright purchase to leasing. Lease Plan won the contract following a competitive tender process, and in addition to supplying Roche Products with leasing and fleet management services, will offer accident management, daily rental and breakdown cover.