New data published by Europcar shows its lockdown rental solution provided vital support to key workers at the height of the coronavirus crisis.
Launched back in March, the ‘Together Programme’ provided to support for emergency services staff and other designated workers by offering vehicles at £5 per day.
During the peak of the pandemic, more than 1,500 key workers took up the offer, resulting in over 19,000 hire days. This ensured workers including NHS, fire and police staff, teachers, carers and volunteer responders were able to remain mobile and travel safely to work, ensuring they could avoid the risk and hassle of using public transport. Europcar also worked in partnership with selected retailers to provide vans and light commercial vehicles with drivers as many industries saw a surge in demand.
The scheme provided a particular boost in regions where public transport is heavily relied on, such as in London, Manchester and Birmingham, which accounted for 46.8% of reservations. Nearly half (47.3%) of those who took up Europcar’s special offer hired their vehicle for the entire month of April when the UK experienced its strictest government lockdown restrictions.
Gary Smith, managing director of Europcar Mobility Group UK, said: “The coronavirus crisis affected every part of society and particularly those who usually rely on public transport to get them from A to B.
“It is vital that we at Europcar do all that we can to support those on whom we all depend on to ensure the health and safety of our communities across the UK. We have gladly offered our support to those who have worked tirelessly to tackle the effects of coronavirus and will continue to assist our essential services and healthcare professionals in any way we can.”
