Fortis Lease is to exit the retail motor
finance market in the UK, in a move that could give new funders the
opportunity for a market entry by acquiring its book.

It is understood that all Fortis’ dealer
relationships are to be wound down by the end of the year.

A BNP Paribas Lease Group spokeswoman said:
“The decision has been made by BNP Paribas Lease Group that the
business conducted by Fortis Lease UK was not core to the strategic
objectives of BNP Paribas Lease Group.  The decision has been
made to stop writing new business in Fortis Lease UK therefore
running off the business.”

Attempts to find a buyer for the business have
so far been unsuccessful.

“We looked at the possibility to re-house the
business within the wider BNP Paribas Group. This was
unsuccessful as there was no adequate strategic fit. Attempts were
then made to sell the business to other financial institutions and
in addition to private equity houses but again this was
unsuccessful due to prevailing market conditions. We believe we
have exhausted all possibilities at the current time and therefore
any future sale would be very much on a reactive basis,” the
spokeswoman said.

The company’s portfolio is regarded to be
strong, with a relatively low incidence of bad debt, raising the
possibility that a buyer may yet come forward. Failing a sale, the
business will be run down by letting the agreements run their
natural course.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Fred
Crawley
and Girish
Gupta