Hertz Australia and New Zealand has appointed a new PR and communication agency, awarding the business to Sydney-based ICON International Communications.

Following a competitive pitch, ICON was chosen from a shortlist of agencies to handle the Hertz business in Australia and New Zealand.

Hertz's Marketing Business Partner, Monique Conheady, commented: "After careful consideration, we decided to appoint ICON, as their response to our brief, their link with global PR firm Ketchum and strong experience within the travel category confirmed them as the best partner moving forward.

"We are thrilled to be working with ICON as we head into what promises to be an exciting year for Hertz. We've kicked off 2013 by moving into a new Head Office at 636 St Kilda Road in Melbourne, and we're sure the next 12 months will bring many exciting opportunities, especially from a PR, communication and social media perspective."

ICON will work closely with Hertz's marketing team to deliver a strategic PR/communication program which includes stakeholder and media relations, internal communications, events and social media activity.

ICON's Managing Director, Chris Gray said: "We're very proud to be appointed by one the world's leading car rental brands. It was a natural fit, particularly as ICON is the exclusive Australasia affiliate of Ketchum, who manages the PR for Hertz USA and UK and serves as the lead PR agency for Hertz International."

Hertz is the largest worldwide airport general use car rental brand, operating from over 8,800 locations in 150 countries, including over 270 locations in Australia and New Zealand.

About Hertz

Hertz Australasia is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hertz Corporation (USA), the largest worldwide airport general use car rental brand, operating from more than 8,800 locations in 150 countries.

In Australia, Hertz has approximately 220 locations including all major airports, cities and a large number of regional towns. Hertz New Zealand also offers a wide range of vehicle hire options, and operates from approximately 50 locations around the country.

The fleet includes well-maintained vehicles encompassing a wide range of cars including economy, intermediate and full-size models as well as prestige vehicles. In addition, minivans, 4WDs, trucks, mining and commercial vehicles are available to hire.

As a global leader in its field, Hertz offers a range of innovative products and services including the Hertz Neverlost Navigation system in a range of languages, Mobile Wi-Fi and Premium Roadside Assistance. Child and baby seats are also available.

To provide even greater customer choice, Hertz offers a range of flexible payment methods including Rent2Buy, Prepay & Save and the Fuel Purchase Option, which is particularly attractive for medium-term rentals. For customers looking to drive along the East Coast for three days or more, Hertz offers One-Way Rentals at no extra charge.

For more information, please contact:

Franziska Kaestner
Consultant
ICON International Communications
E   fkaestner@iconinternational.com.au
M   + 61 424 328 260
T   + 61 2 8235 7600
F   + 61 2 8235 7607
W  www.iconinternational.com.au