East Coast Car Rentals hopes new Hobart headquarters helps meet growing demand

A national car rental firm has revealed demand for rentals in Tasmania peaks at Christmas and Easter. Now, the firm is expanding business in Tasmania. Read why.

Daniel Kearney, Chief Executive Officer of East Coast Car Rentals – Photo Supplied

A prominent national car rental firm hopes a new multimillion-dollar headquarters it is building in southern Tasmania will meet growing demand.

East Coast Car Rentals expects its new flagship headquarters in Cherokee Drive at Cambridge will be finished by September.

It says it is a “several million dollar investment” and builds on its ability to cater to the growing movement away from car ownership by providing budget-friendly, convenient and flexible transportation solutions in a key travel hub.

Ben Whitmore, CMO of East Coast Car Rentals, said the new purpose built Hobart branch would include an extensive and diverse fleet of vehicles for all types of travellers including compact cars for solo or business trips to larger SUVs for families and adventurers.

East Coast Car Rentals is building new headquarters in Hobart. Picture: Supplied.

“This refresh underscores our dedication to offering customers the same high-quality, affordable car rental services they expect from us nationwide, while also strengthening our national presence and reinforcing our commitment to providing reliable, accessible, and cost-effective transportation solutions across Australia,” he said.

“As domestic travel and road trips continue to grow in popularity, so does the demand for flexible and accessible transport options, particularly in destinations like Tasmania, where self-drive experiences offer the best way to explore.

“With its stunning coastal drives, iconic destinations like Port Arthur and Freycinet, and easy access to some of Australia’s most breathtaking scenery, Hobart is the perfect place to explore by car.

“We look forward to continuing to help visitors, and locals alike, discover everything Tasmania has to offer, from epic road trips through the Huon Valley to weekend escapes to Bruny Island.”

Mr Whitmore said the new branch was strategically located in Cambridge and provided free shuttle services to and from Hobart Airport and customers with convenient airport access without the premium costs typically associated with on-airport car rentals.

Amy Hills CEO Tourism Industry Council Tasmania. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Tourism Industry Council Tasmania CEO Amy Hills welcomed the investment.

“There’s no better way to explore Tasmania and its regions than by car so it’s positive to see the confidence being shown by companies to further invest in our island,” she said.

“Self-drive tourism is particularly important in Tasmania as it allows visitors to explore at their own pace and spend more time in regional Tasmania.

“At busy times of year like summer, it’s important to have enough availability of hire cars so visitors have options which suit them and their needs, ensuring a seamless experience from arrival to their next destination.

“This all contributes to a positive visitor experience and satisfaction.”

East Coast Car Rentals began in 1979 and has 15 branches across Australia.

Originally published as East Coast Car Rentals hopes new Hobart headquarters helps meet growing demand