Ayvens CEO, Tim Albertsen, prioritizes enhancing profit margins over expanding the company's fleet.
The merger between ALD Automotive and LeasePlan, now rebranded as Ayvens, is revolutionising the automotive and mobility service sector. Here's a rundown of the progress, benefits, and future plans of this significant industry development:
## Progress of the Merger The merger, facilitated by ALD Automotive's acquisition of LeasePlan, is on track to complete 95% by the end of this year, with a few countries finalising in Q1 of 2026[1][2][4]. The combined entity is being rebranded as Ayvens across all 42 countries by 2025, signifying a unified integration strategy[1][2][4].
## Synergy Benefits The integration is expected to boost operational efficiency by combining resources and expertise, allowing Ayvens to streamline processes and potentially reduce costs[1]. The merger has also given Ayvens a more significant market presence, positioning it as a major player in mobility solutions[3]. The combined entity offers a broader range of services, leveraging ALD's strength in automotive leasing and LeasePlan's expertise in fleet management and mobility services[1].
## Future Plans With operations in 42 countries, Ayvens is poised for further expansion, potentially leveraging its global reach to enter new markets or enhance existing services[1]. The company may focus on integrating advanced technologies to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency, aligning with industry trends in mobility[1]. Ayvens could also explore strategic partnerships with major financial groups or technology providers to strengthen its market position and offer innovative mobility solutions[3].
## Market Trends and Opportunities The growth in the LCV market is driven by companies moving from outright purchase or finance lease to full-service leasing to avoid vehicle ownership risks, and electrification is also a factor[1]. Ayvens is focusing on setting the right residual values for EVs and managing the risks associated with their depreciation[1]. The company sees growth potential in the SME business, private lease market, and LCV market[1].
In the APAC region, particularly India, Malaysia, and Thailand, Ayvens sees significant growth potential[1]. However, Latin America, particularly Mexico and Brazil, shows potential for growth but it will be more limited compared to Europe[1].
The used car market was significantly disrupted by COVID-19 and global supply chain issues, but Ayvens expects a decent used car market for ICE vehicles in 2025 and a stabilised pricing on EVs[1]. Batteries for EVs are becoming cheaper and more efficient, making them cheaper than they were five years ago[1].
Tim Albertsen, CEO of Ayvens, is satisfied with the 2024 results and sees opportunities for 2025[1]. Despite some challenges due to the integration process in 2024, which affected their numbers[1], Ayvens is currently valued at around 85% of book value, indicating a discount[1].
In conclusion, the merger between ALD Automotive and LeasePlan under the Ayvens brand is set to create a powerful player in the mobility sector, with significant opportunities for growth and innovation. The company continues to attract special attention from stakeholders[1]. Immediately after the announcement of the 2024 results, the share price of Ayvens dropped significantly but ended the week 6% higher[1]. Tim Albertsen expects EV prices to decrease over the next five to seven years as technology improves and production becomes more efficient[1].
Ayvens, in its pursuit of growth, might consider strategic investing in electric vehicles (EVs) and leveraging the finance sector to fund such ventures. By doing so, they could capitalize on the growing LCV market and the decreasing prices of EV batteries, which are becoming cheaper than they were five years ago. Furthermore, Ayvens could potentially explore mutually beneficial business opportunities with major financial groups or technology providers to strengthen its market position and offer innovative mobility solutions.
