BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich. -

Stemming from success through a deal consummated last fall, Penske Automotive Group is diversifying further beyond the retail market, as the company announced today that it has acquired the assets and franchise rights to become the operator of Hertz rental car locations in certain markets throughout Indiana.

Penske said it will now operate more than 20 on and off-airport locations, including the Fort Wayne, South Bend, and Indianapolis on-airport locations.

Hertz indicated it will provide Penske with a full array of services to help expand the market presence of the Hertz brand in Indiana while ensuring all products and services provided meet Hertz’s high standards of customer service.

Bud Denker, president of the Penske Car Rental operations, said, “We are thrilled with the opportunity to expand our relationship with Hertz to the Indiana market.

“With our purchase of the Hertz Memphis, Tenn., market in October this acquisition is a logical progression in our relationship.” Denker continued. “With the lasting heritage of the Penske name in motorsports, particularly in Indianapolis, combined with the strong legacy of the Hertz brand, I am confident in our ability to bring a high level of customer service and satisfaction to these locations throughout Indiana.

“Our expansion will allow us to begin scaling our operations, and will help Hertz accelerate its growth in a key market,” Denker went on to say.

Hertz chairman and chief executive officer Mark Frissora touched on the previous deal with Penske as the foundation for today’s developments.

“Hertz’s partnership with Penske Automotive in the Memphis market has proven successful and extending our relationship to Indiana was the logical next step,” Frissora said.

“The Penske team is creating the most valued car rental experience in the Memphis market and we're confident they will bring the same commitment to the Indiana car rental business,” he continued. “With this expanded partnership, we’re confident we’ll be able to accelerate our growth throughout the region and continue our expansion into the neighborhood market.”

Continue the conversation with Auto Remarketing on both LinkedIn and Twitter.