The Hertfordshire-headquartered company, which has in excess of 300 vehicles, selected FSGB following a wide-ranging strategic fleet review that also saw its national fleet manager Eric Harrington seek a company that was focused on client communication and working hand-in-hand to further improve best practice across the fleet.

VPS is expanding rapidly and was already outsourcing the management of its growing fleet of 275 light commercial vehicles and 50 cars, but last September identified the need to have a strategic focus on fleet management and appointed Eric Harrington.

James Freeman, head of operational support at VPS, said: “We felt with our previous fleet management company that there was not a sufficient focus on managing cost, and compliance was also an issue. FSGB has got to grips with both and we welcome its very pro-active and flexible fleet management style.”

All vehicles, which are outright purchased, are typically utilised over a four to five-year operating cycle, although replacement is influenced by mileage and service, maintenance and repair costs.

Freeman said: “Individual vehicle cost visibility is greatly enhanced with FSGB so we are using that information to keep maintenance costs to a minimum by replacing vehicles as required.”

All VPS vehicles have service, maintenance and repair work undertaken through FSGB’s nationwide independent garage network.

Harrington added: “FSGB is now responsible for the day-to-day management of the fleet and all remedial vehicle work is carried out through its own appointed garage network. With 17 service centres nationwide it is important that we have reliable garages that are close to our vehicle locations.”

He continued: “Safety is paramount along with compliance with manufacturers’ service schedules. I like the idea that FSGB’s garage network is fully audited and that gives me confidence that all maintenance work is carried out in accordance with best practice.

“We have depots nationally and I am receiving very positive feedback from the managers that vehicles are being well maintained and customer service is first class.”

Harrington concluded: “The service has been excellent and we look forward to building upon what has been a great start to see FSGB deliver enhanced service, fleet efficiency and sustainable cost reduction and control.”