ALD and LeasePlan have confirmed they are in talks over a potential merger that could create a global mobility leader.

A tie-up between ALD and LeasePlan would create a European leasing and mobility powerhouse

Both the leasing and mobility providers have issued statements saying that they are holding discussions, including with shareholders, although they said “there can be no certainty at this stage that these discussions will result in any agreement or transaction”.

According to reports earlier this year, LeasePlan part-owner TDR Capital was considering a sale after buying into LeasePlan in 2015, and had been exploring options for the business after receiving approaches from strategic investors. A merger with ALD was rumoured then.

A tie-up between the two would create a European leasing and mobility powerhouse.

ALD, which is listed in France and is majority owned by Société Générale, provides full-service leasing and fleet management services across 43 countries to a client base of large corporates, SMEs, professionals and private individuals. As of mid-2021, it managed 1.76 million vehicles.

LeasePlan has approximately 1.8 million vehicles under management in 29 countries under its Car-as-a-Service banner. Its former CarNext online B2C and B2B used car marketplace was carved out into an independent business in July 2021 after raising €400m (£338m).

Any transaction would be subject to regulatory approvals.

Both firms said further announcements will be made when appropriate according to applicable laws.