Sixt AG and its U.S. Franchise Unit announced Nov. 19 it will launch an initiative to expand its franchise network into the U.S. to internationalize the group's business.

Sixt plans to further expand in the U.S. beyond its current corporate branches in Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Orlando, Atlanta and Phoenix with a step-by-step approach of corporate expansion and the addition of local franchise partners.

According to VP of North America Franchise Development for Sixt Franchise USA Craig A. Olson, independent car rental operators and other entrepreneurs have the opportunity to join Sixt as a franchise partner to facilitate the company’s growth in the U.S. market.

The Sixt franchise system currently has more than 80 master franchisees operating from 1,000 worldwide locations. 

"Bringing the Sixt franchise System to the U.S. is a key component of the company's global growth strategy,” Olson said. “Franchisees who join the Sixt system will have opportunities to rapidly grow along with the Sixt brand in the U.S."

For further information on Sixt’s franchise plans in the U.S., stay tuned for an article in the January/February 2013 issue of Auto Rental News.