EVEN as Hertz UAE clocked a 60-percent increase in revenue last year to become one of the company’s fastest growing franchises, Hertz Saudi Arabia has announced the addition of yet another consignment of new 2005 cars to its fleet.
UAE
Hertz UAE has been recognised as one of the fastest-growing franchises in Europe, Middle East and Africa at the recent Hertz international franchisee conference in Athens, Greece. The UAE’s franchise, owned by the Al Futtaim Group, was up against over 80 other countries. The company saw a 60 per cent increase in revenue in 2004 over the previous year, with monthly rentals representing the fastest-growing segment for the company at a revenue increase of 95 per cent over 2003. Leasing and daily rentals grew by 56 and 36 per cent respectively.
Michel Taride, president, Hertz Europe said, “Hertz UAE has been growing at a phenomenal rate, mirroring the growth of the country as a major hub for business and leisure in the region. This success suggests even better times are ahead for the company and for the UAE as a destination.”
The company’s fleet increased by a staggering 50 per cent and will continue to expand at the same rate in the year to come. Hertz UAE has also for the first time branched out in the emirates of Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah with its network of rental offices reaching 12 currently.
Another first for Hertz UAE is the recent opening of its 24-hour, seven days a week call centre, which is also the first of its kind for a car rental company in the UAE. Accessible via the toll-free 800 4345, the new call centre will be on hand to take reservations for new customers and to deal with requests for repairs and maintenance, emergency assistance and general enquiries from existing customers.
Hertz UAE general manager Bob Farrow expects to see a growth of more than 30 per cent in 2005. Plans for the upcoming year include the opening of a strategic new car rental location in Dubai, which will join the company’s existing network of 12 offices around the country. The company will also give a boost to its chauffeur-drive service.
SAUDI ARABIA
Hertz Saudi Arabia has announced the addition of yet another consignment of new 2005 cars to its rental fleet, in line with its plans to increase its market share among the country’s business travellers. New additions include the new Chevrolet Lumina and Chevrolet Epica and are expected to cater to the needs of travelling executives looking for reliable, comfortable, hassle-free and yet affordable means of transportation.
“We aim to operate the youngest fleet in the Saudi market. The Lumina needs little by way of introduction as it has been a popular model for many years. I am however very excited about the 2005 Epica which offers excellent value to the business traveller,” said Safir Islam, general manager, Hertz Saudi Arabia.
The cars were supplied to Hertz Saudi Arabia by Universal Motors Agencies (GM Authorised Dealer) and the deal represents the second major transaction between the two companies. “We regard Hertz as a strategic partner and look forward to playing a continued and growing role in the company’s future,” said Ashraf Fouad Ali, fleet sales manager, Universal Motors Agencies.