EDINBURGH CHAMBER GETS SMART WITH NEW PARTNER IN ENTERPRISE
Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce today announced the signing of smart of Edinburgh as a new Partner in Enterprise. Welcoming the company to an increasingly impressive list of premier Chamber supporters, Chamber Chief Executive Ron Hewitt said:
"We are delighted to start the New Year with such a prestige partnership. I do not use the word ‘partnership’ lightly, and smart of Edinburgh join a supporter’s club of the highest calibre which bring strength and depth to what the Chamber can offer its members. The growing success of Chambers of Commerce in taking forward the goals of their members is rooted in such two way processes.
"In this case I am especially pleased that linking up with smart of Edinburgh will spearhead our initiative in 2008 to encourage businesses to reduce their carbon footprint. By choosing two smart cars for our pool fleet we will significantly reduce the environmental impact of essential business transport, complementary to our existing policy of preferring public transport where possible. There is no doubt that as taxation of vehicles moves towards carbon emissions levels that businesses will see financial benefits from such investments alongside the important environmental gains. This relationship will enable us to support member companies to take a similar approach to what is becoming a key element of customer choice – favouring suppliers who demonstrate environmental awareness and action."
Graham Affleck, Market Area Director for Mercedes-Benz and smart of Edinburgh, said:
"From our point of view, we’re delighted to supply such a prominent organisation as the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce and hope that their foresight will inspire other businesses to consider the smart car as a solution to today’s urban mobility issues."
"The smart car has been associated with green motoring since its arrival in the UK in 1998 and the brand is commencing its 10th anniversary with a market trial among corporate customers for a fully electric version of the fortwo.
"Since their arrival last September, petrol versions of the new smart fortwo have provoked considerable interest within the business sector as more companies think about their carbon footprint and their impact on their environment while carrying out their day-to-day operations. With its exceptionally low running costs, it is a car that makes economical as well as ecological sense."
The company, which opened purpose designed new showrooms at Newbridge in Summer 2007 will have the opportunity to work with the Chamber on these issues in the coming months.