Hertz Global Holdings, Inc. has announced that its Hertz car rental brand has acquired the vehicle rental business of former licensee, Autotravel, in the United Kingdom. Located in the North West of England, Autotravel has operated a successful Hertz car and van rental franchise for nearly 30 years. The deal signals Hertz' strategy to take advantage of growth opportunities and to leverage its global infrastructure through acquisitions and joint ventures.

Mark P. Frissora, the Company's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, "As part of our revenue growth objectives, Hertz is actively pursuing opportunities to extend our reach into fast growing territories and new market segments. This includes discussions with licensees who may wish to sell their business to us, as in the case of Autotravel, or partner with us through a joint venture. Our acquisition strategy also strengthens our ability to leverage our infrastructure to reduce costs and further enhance our service to customers."

Autotravel achieved revenues of $24.4m in the year to September 2006. Its territory stretches from the East Midlands to Liverpool, covering two major conurbations including several large industrial cities and two airports - Liverpool (John Lennon) and Blackpool. This investment increases the number of Hertz UK corporate locations by 26 percent.

Michel Taride, President, Hertz Europe, and Senior Vice President, Hertz Corporation, added: "The acquisition from Autotravel is a major step in the growth of Hertz UK. Liverpool and Blackpool airports are fast growing due to the presence of low-cost airlines including our partner Ryanair. The Autotravel territory will also be a strong contributor to further growth of our successful van rental business. We look forward to taking advantage of similar opportunities in the future for Hertz in Europe and the rest of the world."

The world's largest general use car rental brand, Hertz is the only car rental company with corporate and licensee locations in Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, Latin America, Middle East, and North America.