Avis Car Rental has selected a licensee to launch car rental operations in Laos and Cambodia. Avis will work with RMA Group to officially enter both markets with the opening of airport and city facilities in Luang Prabang, Pakse and Vientiane in Laos and Phnom Penh and Siam Reap in Cambodia — making Avis the first international car rental company to operate in each of the countries.

"Strengthening our global position remains a high priority as we seek to drive sustained, profitable growth," said Patric Siniscalchi, president, Latin America/Asia-Pacific, Avis Budget Group. "Our licensee agreement with RMA Group will allow us to expand our global footprint and help to ensure that we are well-positioned to realize the growth potential of the Avis brand in each country."

The new Avis facilities will serve local and international customers with a "one-stop" mobility solution, says Avis. Customers can start booking reservations at www.avis.com this month as locations open.

"RMA is uniquely positioned to facilitate Avis Car Rental's plan for growth," Kevin Whitcraft, chief executive officer of RMA Group. "We have long-established vehicle sales and distribution infrastructures in Cambodia and Laos, and we are the partner of choice to some of the world's largest retail franchises in the Asia-Pacific region. ..."

Avis now has approximately 300 rental locations in Asia.