Demand for light commercial vehicles (LCVs) is set to increase in the freight, logistics, post and railway transportation sectors by 8% within the next three years, research suggests.

Northgate Vehicle Hire says the rise in demand for LCVs was attributed to a predicted rise in the forecast of output (GVA) annual growth rate, which is expected to lead to over 140,000 vehicles in use by businesses operating within the freight, logistics, post and railway transportation sectors by 2016.

The research also revealed a rising demand for fuel efficiency amongst fleets.

Jonathan Pearce, head of marketing at Northgate Vehicle Hire, said: “When growth is predicted in an uncertain economic climate it is often difficult for businesses to fully prepare without parting with large chunks of capital.

“It’s important for business owners to look at smart solutions to managing outlay of capital.

“As a company’s fleet is often one of its more costly expenses, it is essential that businesses within the freight, logistics, post and railway transportation sectors seriously consider how their fleets are managed.

“Opting to lease vehicles as part of a flexible fleet management package is a solution that will see win-win results across the board.”

He continued: “We have already experienced a rise in demand for flexible vehicle hire and complete fleet solutions within the industry and feel assured that this will continue as the sector continues to grow over the next three to five years.”

More and more businesses within these sectors are opting to outsource the management of their fleets to ensure they meet the demands of a growing industry, says NVH.

As a result, the popularity of flexible hire and fleet management has been soaring, due to its ability to support businesses with seasonal fluctuations.