Vehicle rental company Sixt is looking for more franchise agents to allow it to expand its coverage.

It said it is looking for businesses new to rental as well as those already operating as vehicle hire businesses.

The rent-a-car company introduced a new scheme designed to bring more businesses into the vehicle rental market.

The car and van rental company already has over 3,500 branches across 85 countries.

In order to grow its business in the UK, Sixt is now offering a new agent scheme.

The agent operates as an independent company with its own staff, however Sixt provides the vehicles, negating the agent from having to buy their own fleet and keeping it up-to-date.

The agent also has access to Sixt’s central reservation scheme, so they are fully integrated into the booking system and can view current fleet information.

In addition, Sixt also provides staff training, uniforms and support marketing.

As a Sixt agent, the business will offer the same competitive rates and standard terms and conditions of any Sixt outlet.

"The opportunity is ideal for existing rental businesses that will benefit from being part of a well-known brand or for experienced rental staff looking to set up their own vehicle hire company but cannot raise the funds needed to purchase a fleet," said Sixt.

"It’s also a great add-on business opportunity for firms such as motor traders and vehicle repair workshops as well as companies that operate courtesy car schemes."

Ian Lawrence, managing director of Sixt added: “We’re offering people the opportunity to be involved in the industry by helping with the greatest financial costs so they can either start up their own company or add an additional service to their existing operations.

"We’re also interested in hearing from independent vehicle rental companies who are looking for help to maintain and update their fleet to ensure they continue to attract customers and act responsibility by providing safe and reliable vehicles.”

One business already part of the Sixt agency scheme is Car and Van Hire Ltd, which has outlets throughout Scotland. John Fraser of Car and Van Hire Ltd explains the reason for his decision: “I opted to become a Sixt agent because it provides my business with greater support and resources to fulfil the volume of rentals we were having to handle.

"Our Edinburgh airport location in particular sees significant demand but we just weren’t able to fully meet the requirements of our customers.

"Now as a Sixt agent, we can offer customers an extensive choice of vehicles even at peak times, which means more rentals and increased revenue for my business and Sixt, so it’s a win-win situation.”