Dealer location has to be considered. Eynon said: “We are keen to reduce business mileage and if the main dealer is further away than the non-franchised dealer, does it make sense to use them?”

Service plans/packs do not appeal to another fleet manager, who asked not to be identified, because “they tend to be too loosely written in terms of what is included and not included and they don’t allow for any additional work/parts that may be required, so it’s still not a fully budgeted cost”.

He added: “I would suspect that once the dealer had the vehicle, then they would look closely for chargeable additional work to generate another revenue stream.”

What fleet managers think about service plans

“If I was to use a service pack then the dealers would have to match my expectations in terms of lead in time for servicing, which is not often possible in my local area.” Damian James, head of operations, Bracknell Forest Borough Council

“Service plans can be good. It’s important to do the maths before committing just to make sure you’re not paying any more than the equivalent number of services would have cost, but there’s generally a saving to be had. If you lease your vehicles the payments can be spread over the term so there are no nasty shocks and it is good for budgeting.” Graham Short, fleet and property operations manager, Evander Glazing and Locks

“Service plans appeal to me provided they are better value than the standard offer from my leasing company. I have previously taken BMW and Mini offers.” Justin Patterson, head of fleet management, Mitie

“I would consider removing maintenance from my contract hire agreement if service plans were available that genuinely covered all servicing, etc. without hidden costs in the small print.” Debbie Floyde, group fleet/risk manager, Bauer Media