ABS - the UK's largest network of independent bodyshops - has negotiated a national courtesy car supply deal for its 210 principal and secondary members.

The programme, developed with Guards Leasing and Finance of Cambridge and designed to make maximum use of the ABS buying power, covers mainly group A city cars, although larger vehicles will be made available to meet fleet operator requirements. Prior to the arrangement, the network, which has several major insurer customers, had been buying about 9000 courtesy cars a year.

“In the past we have put together some very good one-off offers for our bodyshops but we decided the time has come to put in place a formal arrangement for ongoing supply,” says John Ellis, head of business development at ABS.

“The purchasing capability of ABS is considerable, so we are able to offer some excellent rates, combined with very good supply.”

Ellis adds: “Much of the stigma attached to courtesy car deals has now disappeared and manufacturers seem very keen to do business with us.”