Auto Rental News, the authority in the car rental industry for 25 years, is proud to announce American Express as sponsor of the inaugural Auto Rental News Professional of the Year Awards.

The Professional of the Year Awards honor associates who demonstrate and promote outstanding customer satisfaction within the car rental process from auto rental companies worldwide.

“The awards are a forum for the auto rental industry to celebrate its champions, enhance industry morale and promote its good works,” said Chris Brown, executive editor of Auto Rental News. “We are delighted that American Express has chosen to help us honor those associates who make a difference professionally and personally every day.”

“We are proud to be the inaugural sponsor of the Auto Rental Professional of the Year Awards,” said Greg Hybl, vice president, Global Merchant Services, American Express. “We have a long history of working closely with the auto rental industry and are delighted to help recognize its top performers. The spirit of this award echoes the unparalleled service and value we strive to give our Cardmembers and merchants each and every day.”

A panel of five judges will evaluate entries based on five areas of performance criteria: customer service, operations management, sales, leadership and industry and community involvement. Three winners will be named Professional of the Year, one each from the following car rental business categories: Corporate, Independent and Franchise.

Winners will be recognized at an awards ceremony during the inaugural Auto Rental Summit, Oct. 29-30, at the Hollywood Beach Marriott in Hollywood, Fla. The winners will also be featured in an article in Auto Rental News and online at www.AutoRentalNews.com.

Visit www.AutoRentalSummit.com for more information on the Summit and the Awards, and to begin the awards entry process. The deadline for awards entries is Sept. 12, 2012.

For Auto Rental Summit sponsorship opportunities, contact Joni Owens at 310-533-2530 or joni.owens@bobit.com.