HERTZ UAE, part of the Dubai-based Al-Futtaim group of companies has taken delivery of 4,000 new cars in 2010, an investment that follows its ‘impressive’ first half growth.

The Al-Futtaim group company said it has posted a 12 per cent growth in its inventory at a time when the car rental sector scaled back on their stock.

Hertz UAE invested in 4,000 new cars in 2010 from top auto manufacturers thereby ensuring its fleet has the latest models, are safe and reliable while also enhancing its reputation as a market leader, said Nigel Johnson, managing director of Hertz UAE.

 “Hertz UAE continue to view investment in products and customer service as critical factors in our success,” he noted.

“2010 also saw the company invest over 2,000 man hours in customer service training which, combined with our investment in 4,000 new cars, will continue to drive forward the high standards of service our customers expect,” he added.

The company also opened its exclusive service desk at Abu Dhabi International Airport offering fast check-in access to a wide selection of vehicles and 24/7 services.

With this launch, Hertz UAE now has 13 locations across the country including branches in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. The company will soon open its 14th location in the UAE.

As part of its investment in infrastructure, Hertz UAE recently upgraded its vehicle preparation facilities with the introduction of a new state-of-the-art brushless car wash system making significant reduction in vehicle turnaround time. Beyond the UAE, the company also expanded its fleet of rental vehicles in Kuwait with a wider choice of sedans and SUVs.

Hertz also introduced a new initiative in the Middle East and Africa targeting the business travel trade. The Hertz Business Plus programme was created especially for small to medium enterprises and offers a fully inclusive, one payment on arrival car rental service for business travellers anywhere in the world. Adding up to much smoother rentals globally for SMEs and their staff, it includes collision damage waiver, theft protection, super cover, additional driver, vehicle licence fee, and location service charge, all in the same package.

The programme also offers a rate of 15 per cent commission to agents and is sold through the trade Global Distribution Service (GDS).