Mike Wise, head of Kwik-Fit Fleet, said: 'We believe the new contract with Lex Autolease, which will run into 2013, is the largest and most significant fast-fit deal in the history of the UK fast-fit industry.'

Kwik-Fit Fleet won the contract, which goes live on 1 March, in a competitive tender following the merger of Lex and Lloyds TSB Autolease last year. The fast-fit giant has previously held a solus deal with Lex for the supply of a wide range of services including the supply and online management of all tyre replacement since 1997. In addition, Kwik-Fit Fleet has been a supplier of a range of services to Lloyds TSB Autolease.

Kwik-Fit currently has a UK network of more than 670 centres and 220 mobile units and, according to Mr Wise, the company's investment into High Street centres at a time when some are reducing their networks was vital in winning the contract.

He added: 'In addition, our continued investment in a modern fleet of mobile units means that many company car and van drivers will have tyre repair and replacement work carried out at their location of choice thus aiding convenience.

'Additionally, the business partnership that we have built up with Lex over many years and their use of a wide range of our services – particularly in relation to our centres undertaking an increasing volume of mechanical repairs and servicing work on their company cars and vans – was crucial in securing the contract.'