Operations and environment
Managing our operations and environment
As a service provider, LeasePlan’s impact on the environment is significantly limited
compared to that of the production sector. Yet we understand there are certain environmental
impacts in our operations resulting from our business activities across the fleet value chain
and in our offices.
Our global fleet value chain
We perform independently or through outsourced partners all activities needed for our clients to run a fleet, from purchasing the vehicles to the remarketing of those vehicles at the end of their respective contracts. We are independent of vehicle brands and provide services for vehicles of any make and model in line with the specific needs of our clients. These services are coordinated across our markets of operation and include:
- purchasing and procurement of vehicles
- financing of vehicles
- comprehensive car insurance services
- vehicle maintenance management and pick-up and delivery service
- cost control systems and fuel purchase cards
- accident management and claim-handling services
- fixed-fee fleet outsourcing services by handling all fleet-related matters for clients
- vehicle remarketing by selling used cars to drivers, traders and private persons
The size of our fleet requires maintenance and replenishment with significant procurement of fleet services and commodities. By leveraging our size and scope, we are able to negotiate favourable pricing structures with our preferred network of suppliers which translate into savings for our clients.
Supplier management
Globally, the sustainable management of our supply chain is further enhanced with our central procurement company, LeasePlan Supply Services. This subsidiary aims to turn our size and international presence into an advantage for our local subsidiaries and our clients by managing international agreements with a network of preferred suppliers. In recent years we have significantly strengthened our supplier relationships and control frameworks through procurement excellence. Our procurement functions use a global blueprint to manage strategic and sustainable relationships with suppliers in ensuring the quality of products and ultimately the service delivered to clients. LeasePlan applies a strict code of ethics for its procurement activities.
Car remarketing
We have built significant expertise in vehicle remarketing which enables us to capture the residual value of a vehicle under management at the end of the service contract. In addition to engaging in traditional local remarketing activities, we have established CarNext International, a subsidiary specialised in coordinating vehicle remarketing activities across borders. Using our knowledge of the resale value of different vehicle makes and models from our multi-brand portfolio we are able to ship specific vehicle brands to those national markets where they are most popular, thereby potentially achieving higher resale values.
LeasePlan is the only leasing company offering a single clear international guideline for the assessment of damage on returned lease vehicles. Our fair wear and tear standard is certified by TÜV Nord Fair Wear &Tear Standard. We remain the only leasing company in Europe to maintain an independent quality standard.
Carbon emissions
In addition to our comprehensive GreenPlan programme, we look for ways to minimise carbon emissions from our operations. Eco-driving is now a well-established concept in the pursuit of reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Many LeasePlan countries offer driver training and monitoring programmes to develop more environmentally sound driving habits. From LeasePlan UK’s SafePlan to Germany’s Ctrack system and many more, LeasePlan’s forward-thinking environmental stance continues to expand every year. LeasePlan’s commitment to reducing global emissions is also demonstrated by its partnership with Toyota and Opel in 2011.
Operationally, LeasePlan’s head office implemented a project in 2009 to reduce energy consumption, which resulted in 15% reduction in use of electricity and 13% reduction in consumption of heating. These levels were maintained in 2011, and we continue to look for ways to improve our carbon footprint.