ALD Automotive this week started the process of integrating Hertz Lease into its European operations, claiming the deal gives the enlarged company improved efficiencies so it can respond more effectively to international tender offers.

The acquisition of Hertz Lease by ALD parent company Societe Generale means that the French banking group now ranks as the second largest full service leasing provider in Europe, managing 500,000 vehicles.

It has given ALD a presence in new European states, including the Benelux countries and Scandinavia, and strengthened its position in key areas.

A spokesman said existing and potential fleet customers will benefit from the deal. 'Customers will benefit from the determination of Societe Generale group to develop its activities in this specialised business line,' he said.

'Furthermore, customers will benefit from the improvement of the positioning of ALD Automotive in each European country and the implementation of a global quality system based on customer satisfaction.'

The European harmonisation is intended to reinforce ALD Automotive's purchasing power and its remarketing methods, to improve customer pricing which will also benefit from financial capabilities of Societe Generale group.

A full integration of the Hertz Lease divisions is now taking place. The spokesman added: 'The objective of ALD Automotive in this process is to ensure that the best qualities of both businesses are maintained and that the combined force will set new standards of excellence in each of its markets.

'Thanks to its European coverage, which needs to be reinforced in Eastern European countries (especially Hungary and Poland) and other European countries such as Austria and Switzerland, ALD Automotive aims for a leading position on the European market within the next three years.'

Some Hertz Lease franchises in smaller European markets are not part of the sale.

ALD fleet per country
Country Fleet size
Norway 2,300
Sweden 1,000
Finland 12,800
Denmark 11,100
The Netherlands 10,200
Belgium 21,400
Luxembourg 2,500
The UK 42,900
France 176,500
Germany 126,700
Czech Republic/Slovakia 6,000
Portugal 6,800
Spain 31,200
Italy 45,200
Morocco 700