FIAT has taken on a new sales team to promote Fiat Auto Fleet as a one-stop-shop for customers. The manufacturer is stepping up its bid to make major in-roads into the corporate market with its range of cars and vans now backed by in-house companies such as Fiat Auto Contracts and Fiat Auto Financial Services.

A team of 11 fleet sales advisors has been recruited and a Fleet Call Centre has been set up providing a single point of contact and information for potential corporate customers. It is now available during office hours on 07000 012012. The call centre is operated by a company called Brann and the fleet sales advisers are employed by Brann subsidiary Ellert on behalf of Fiat.

A new database management system has also been introduced, designed to allow the company's fleet account managers to spend more time with customers and prospects. Fiat Auto Contracts is a joint venture with Lease Plan, which is providing back office support. The company is based at Fiat Auto UK's Slough headquarters and is headed by managing director Keith Bowles, a former divisional director for Swan National.