REG Vardy is about to become a force in the corporate fleet business with the launch of Vardy Group Fleet.

The venture is based at the group's Houghton House Centre, in Sunderland, and will supply vehicles to the daily rental, bodyshop and courtesy car market, contract hire companies, insurance company total loss replacements and to outright purchase customers.

The move to gain a bigger share of the fleet market is part of a wider strategy developed by the group.

It intends to supply more than 15,000 in its first year and already boasts clients such as Hertz, Bellway Homes, Hanson and Royal Sun Alliance.

Vardy Group Fleet co-ordinates all inquiries for quotations and availability centrally. Once an order is placed, the nearest Reg Vardy dealership is selected to supply the vehicles.

David Jewell of Vardy Group Fleet said: "We will be among the top players in the fleet market very soon."