Avis continues to inspire change in the car rental industry

Avis has launched the second wave of its Inspired Change programme of continuous innovation and improvement. As a result of extensive customer research, Avis has applied its insight into the long term improvements needed to achieve a customers ‘ideal’ rental experience. Avis has introduced further innovations to improve the speed, clarity and choice for its customers.

These newly launched offerings, to be implemented across Avis’ European rental stations this autumn, include; Fuel Up Front, a service available to customers who want to take the stress out of returning their car. This product offers customers a clear and convenient refuelling option for when they return their hire car, they can now choose to pre-order a full tank of fuel when they pick up their car and then return it empty. Positioned competitively, Fuel Up Front customers will pay for fuel at below the local pump price. If the car is returned with a full tank, no charge is made.

Avis now offers Satellite Navigation systems for rental throughout Europe. Building on a partnership with global navigation provider TomTom, customers in 14 European countries no longer need to contend with foreign maps and road signs, they can have the convenience of pre-ordering a TomTom system to be included in their car. Customers have the choice to rent the user friendly system, which can be booked either online or directly with an Avis rental station, to ensure they have a stress free trip.

Murray Hennessey, Chief Executive, Avis Europe comments, “Initial results from the first wave of Inspired Change are positive and customers have responded well to the changes. Through continual monitoring and customer feedback we will be able to see the full impact of the second wave within the next year.”

To find out what Inspired Change is all about, Avis has launched a micro-site explaining finer details of the changes currently being undertaken. Visit avis.co.uk/inspiredby for more information.

Avis launched its Inspired Change programme in spring 2006 following extensive research amongst Avis employees and nearly 13,000 customers across Europe. Inspired Change has introduced a jargon-free Rental Agreement, clearer car groups of small, medium and large, a Fuel Up Front refuelling option and Avis Choice Fleet in the UK. These ideas for change and others were inspired by Avis employees who wish to make life even better and more transparent for their business and leisure customers. It is a long term commitment and a promise to continuously improve and innovate. It is not a one off but part of the ‘We Try Harder’ philosophy.