FLEET chiefs used the Fleet Show as a fact-finding mission to get to grips with significant changes in the fast-moving fleet industry. With major changes in the industry as a result of Government-inspired initiatives on tax, legislation, driver training and environment there are significant moves fleet chiefs must make to ensure their fleets operate at maximum efficiency.

Anthony Coomber, fleet manager for Britvic Soft Drinks, which has a fleet of 850 cars and 100 vans, said: 'I went to the show to meet manufacturer contacts and generally to bring myself up to date with any changes that have taken place in the fleet industry and also there was information in the Fleet Show Business Forums on tax and green issues, which a colleague attended. One of the most interesting conversations I had was with the Inland Revenue about company car tax and the future taxation of vans.'

Mike Selby, systems manager for Marconi, said: 'I went to look at fleet management systems and I got all the information I needed, while I was also able to pick up general information about the market.' Mike Bowen, managing director of Kenning Car, Van & Truck Rental, said: 'I went to look for new ideas and you could see these coming issues, including taxation and also to see what is coming to the market. It is a great way to keep up with everyone.'

Chris Lavender, operations director of Marshall Leasing, said: 'I went to meet with existing suppliers and have a look around. Because everyone is in one place, you can achieve in a day what would normally take weeks of meetings.' David Percival, who manages a 130 van and car fleet for Morris Material Handling in Loughborough, said: 'I've been going to the show since 1996 and without doubt I've taken ideas that I've picked up from talking to other fleet managers or from the business forums and implemented them in my operations.'