Organic growth of the Arval leased fleet worldwide was 8.4% for 2016, significantly outperforming the initial average growth target of 6%. A growth sustained both by Arval's historic markets of France, UK, Spain and Italy, with an overall increase of 7% in the leased fleet, and double-figure growth in several countries such as Austria (15%), Brazil (14%), Hungary (10%), Luxembourg (15%), Poland (15%) and Czech Republic (19%).

During the year, Arval also delivered the Europe-wide integration programme of GE Fleet Services, which was acquired by Arval at the end of 2015. Covering more than 160,000 vehicles in 12 countries, this programme continues its success. More than 900 employees have joined the company, and are now focusing their enthusiasm and talent to contributing to the development of Arval and delivering the first operational and commercial successes.

Increased cooperation with the BNP Paribas Group retail banking networks, International Business Office, which handles the largest international clients, and SME Solutions, which serves self-employed and small company customers, were prime drivers of growth in 2016.

Arval is now present in 28 countries, following its acquisition of Relsa in Brazil and its alliance with the same group in Peru and Chile. With around 30,000 vehicles leased in these three countries, Arval is consolidating its position in Latin America. The Element-Arval Global Alliance - the cornerstone of the company's international business - is itself expanding with the addition of a new member, RDA Renting, which operates in Argentina and Uruguay. The Alliance now covers 50 countries to offer international fleets a consistent level of high-quality service worldwide.

All of these led Arval to achieve the milestone of one million leased vehicles worldwide in November last year. This unprecedented performance consolidates Arval's leadership in the European multibrand leasing market and its status as a key industry stakeholder at global level.

"2016 was a tremendous year for Arval", says Arval CEO Philippe Bismut. "The millionth vehicle marked a clear turning point in the history of our company. It symbolises the success of our strategy and the unfailing commitment shown by our people".

Arval Luxembourg, growth built on innovation and expertise
In 2016, Arval Luxembourg confirmed its position as a major actor on the operational leasing market in Luxembourg. The company recorded a 15% growth of its fleet, bringing the number of leased vehicles to some 5,000 (percentage higher than the trend of the Luxembourg company car market).

In July 2016, Arval Luxembourg successfully launched Arval Mid-Term Rental, a leasing solution covering periods from 1 to 24 months. This solution meets the flexibility needs of businesses in Luxembourg to cope with activity peaks, seasonal activity, or different phases of recruitment (e.g. trial periods, fixed-term contracts).

Furthermore, advice and needs analysis for company fleet managers has been enhanced by Arval Outsourcing Solutions which allows them, while staying in control, to outsource fleet management and contact with drivers.

In 2016, Arval also strengthened its involvement in eco-mobility through actions like the operational management of a new fleet of BMW i3 electric cars for Enovos and City Mov’ and the launch of commercial solutions to evolve the market towards more eco-responsible driving.

"The success of Arval Luxembourg is explained firstly by a strong desire to ensure continuity and quality of service to its customers. Arval Luxembourg's growth in 2017 will be based particularly on the quality of service and expertise of its staff, on cross-selling with BGL BNP Paribas and on the innovation of solutions in line with our eco-responsible commitment", stresses Gerry Wagner, General Manager of Arval Luxembourg.