The Business Development Programme, which focuses on the sub-50 fleet sector, was officially launched in May last year and has led to the opening of more than 360 accounts with businesses collectively operating more than 7,700 company cars. A total of 276 vehicles have so far been delivered through the scheme.

The programme sees franchise dealers working in tandem with four business development managers as part of an outsourced specialist sales team, which has been established by Magma Services, part of the London-based automotive specialist Magma Group.

Following the success of the 12-month initiative, Magma Services has now been awarded a two-year contract to further drive forward SME business in conjunction with Mazda.

Mazda's newly appointed fleet and remarketing director Steve Jelliss said: 'Moving forward the business development managers will not only be working with dealers new to the programme, but they will also support the franchises in training staff to pro-actively manage our fleet customers.

'For the first time in many cases, businesses are experiencing a local franchise dealer approaching them with information and advice on company car acquisition and operating policies and procedures.'

He added: 'The business development managers working with selected dealers over the next 24 months will leave a legacy that is sustainable long term. Ultimately by forming a strong partnership with SMEs in their respective areas the dealers can look forward to long-standing business relationships.'