Mazda is expecting its fleet volumes to expand this year by focusing on dealers engaging with sub-100 fleets and the contract hire and leasing sector.

The Japanese manufacturer’s 2006 fleet volumes reached an all-time high of 19,391, from a total of 50,166 UK sales.

While corporate sales will remain at around 35% of total registrations, overall Mazda registrations are predicted to increase to between 52,000 and 53,000 units.

One of Mazda’s key goals in 2007 is to drive business to the small fleet market. Mazda stated it was important for it to engage more of the 158 franchise dealers in fleet business.

Although there are seven fleet specialist dealers throughout the country and many other retailers are staffed with corporate sales specialists, Hopkins said: "We need to show our dealers that working with fleets is not only about supplying vehicles but also relates to securing service, maintenance and repair work.

"Additionally, through excellent service, they can forge significant business relations that will result in repeat business and provide a ready source of used cars with a known history."