Gero Goetzenberger, CEO Athlon on business developments

What is your main strategic objective for 2020, both in Europe and beyond?

“Our key objective for 2020 is to support our customers in maneuvering through the current corona crisis. With our remaining capacities, we continue to drive our digitization agenda. Additionally we’re preparing further development of the product portfolio to more flexible offerings.”

How will the popularity of vehicle leasing and fleet management in Europe evolve in 2020?

“We’ll have to see which impact the current pandemic has on the fleet business. In general, it should accelerate the trend to more usage, and more flexible solutions. Additionally, customers are getting more used to online activities, further driving the demand for more digital offerings. Also, the outsourcing of fleet management helps our customers focus upon their core business, which is essential – especially in times of crisis.”

With smart mobility evolving fast and start-ups disrupting fleet management and leasing, how do you see the industry’s future?

“The trend from ownership to usage is transforming the automotive industry and creating new opportunities for Athlon. We are investing in new solutions, specifically in new rental and subscription business models, which will offer more flexibility to our customers. This comes with an improved, digital customer journey. Obviously, this also requires increased digitization of our processes.

In addition, we are working closely with Mercedes-Benz on transforming online connectivity into both new products and cost savings for our customers. We’re also helping to reduce fleet emissions by focusing on alternatives to combustion engines. We continuously broaden our know-how so we can advise our customers on how to integrate EVs into their fleets.”