COMPANIES are starting to book stands at the 1999 Fleet Show with some fleet firms returning to the event after missing the 1998 show following the renewed focus on the business side of the exhibition. The 1999 Fleet Show will be held from April 27-29 at the NEC, Birmingham, where it will be the focal point of a 'fleet week' organised by Emap Automotive.

The seven-day focus on fleet will also feature business forums, offer networking opportunities and there will be a gala dinner. This year's show, the 17th, is sponsored by Fleet NewsNet's sister hard copy titles Fleet News and Fleet Car Business - published by Emap Automotive - and is organised in association with the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association which will host its own business centre.

Companies which have booked stand space at the show to date are: AA, Autoglass, Volkswagen Fleet, Mercedes-Benz Corporate Sales, BCH Vehicle Management, Flogas, BP Oil, Chevin Computer Systems, Paul Hartmann, Racal/ Orchid, Transco, British Gas Trading, ATS, Conoco (Jet), RAC, Calor Autogas, Car Fleet Control and Powermarque.

Spaces are starting to fill as completed order forms are being received every day. Exhibitors looking for prime sites should contact show sales manager Matthew Weight on 01733 467035.