ACFO and the ICFM say that there are a number of areas for mutual collaboration, including their annual conferences, which along with other events will now include representation from both organisations.

By such closer working, the two parties say they hope to introduce themselves to a wider group of industry operators – currently they are focused on different sectors of the marketplace.

In recent years, ACFO says it's expanded its membership base to include HR, procurement and finance decision-makers as the role of fleet management increasingly becomes split across a number of different departments. Commenting on ACFO's set-up, chairman of the ICFM, Roddy Graham, commented: ‘ACFO represents the interests of fleet operators in the UK. In this instance, it is the business or organisation which is the member, not the individual. ACFO’s strength is in lobbying and working with Government departments, motor manufacturers and other organisations on key issues that impact on the sector. Additionally, it holds free local business and networking meetings through regional branches to ensure members are in touch with all the key issues. Over the last few years, ACFO has grown in stature and recognition and is now a very well respected voice both within industry circles and the corridors of Whitehall alike.’

Speaking in return on the ICFM, ACFO chairman Julie Jenner said: ‘The ICFM encourages the training and educational development of those involved in fleet management with membership held at a personal level. The forte of the ICFM is in delivering professional training for fleet managers and fleet specialists. This includes the BVRLA Professional Fleet Consultant Development Programme.’

Both organisations say that by forging closer links, they hope to strengthen the knowledge and professionalism of the fleet industry.

Ms Jenner concluded: 'By working more closely together we hope that membership of both organisations will increase. There are many delegates at ACFO meetings who are relatively new to fleet management and their operational experience and knowledge will undoubtedly increase through ICFM training. Equally, we know that ICFM members will benefit from joining ACFO. The mutual collaboration will be a win-win for both organisations and their respective members.'