Enterprise Holdings, one of the largest private companies in the US, has agreed with Burmarrad Group to launch its three global vehicle rental brands – Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car – on the island.

The US company said the partnership marks the final step in its phased programme to extend its award-winning rental business to all 44 countries in Europe. The first branded branches are due to open at Malta International Airport early in the new year.

Jon Flansburg, Assistant Vice President of Global Franchising at Enterprise Holdings, said that although the pandemic changed travel plans for many, the need to rent a vehicle remains strong as people making essential journeys look for safe transport options once they reach their destination.

Enterprise Holdings quoted Burmarrad Director Mario Gauci Jnr saying that his company always wanted to tap into the strong tourism market and the agreement with Enterprise will enable the Burmarrad Group to enter Malta’s vibrant tourism “market with a bang”.

“Although the pandemic has reduced the number of visitors to the country, we are confident that this idyllic Mediterranean island will soon be attracting increasing numbers of foreign visitors to its shores again.

“Enterprise will also appeal to the large number of ex-pats working in Malta. With our knowledge and experience, and with Enterprise’s unrivalled trusted brand, we believe that we will offer our clients peace of mind and a top-quality service in the safest way possible,” Mr Gauci said.

Burmarrad Group was set up in 1984 and owns a fleet of more than 1,000 vehicles, which includes a wide range of specialist commercial and industrial vehicles. It is also reputed to be the top corporate leasing business in Malta and offers one of the largest vehicle servicing facilities on the island.