Hertz Corporation, commonly known as Hertz, is a leading global car rental company headquartered in Estero, Florida, United States. With a rich history spanning over a century, Hertz has established itself as a trusted brand in the transportation industry, offering a wide range of rental services to both leisure and business customers.
The company was founded in 1918 by Walter L. Jacobs in Chicago, Illinois, with a modest fleet of just a dozen Model T Ford cars. Jacobs had a vision to provide reliable and affordable transportation to the masses, and this vision laid the foundation for what would become one of the largest car rental companies in the world.
Over the years, Hertz expanded its operations and introduced several innovative concepts that revolutionized the car rental industry. In 1923, Hertz became the first car rental company to establish a presence at an airport, setting up shop at Chicago's Midway Airport. This marked the beginning of Hertz's focus on airport car rentals, a segment that would become a significant part of its business.
Hertz continued to grow and innovate, introducing the first computerized reservation system in 1966, which allowed customers to book rentals conveniently. This system, known as the "Hertz Instant Return," streamlined the rental process and set a new standard for customer service in the industry.
In 1994, Hertz became a subsidiary of Ford Motor Company, which further strengthened its position in the market. However, in 2005, Hertz was acquired by a private equity group led by Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, The Carlyle Group, and Merrill Lynch Global Private Equity. This change in ownership allowed Hertz to focus on its core business and expand its global footprint.
Today, Hertz operates in over 150 countries worldwide, with approximately 10,200 corporate and franchisee locations. The company offers a diverse fleet of vehicles, ranging from economy cars to luxury vehicles, SUVs, and trucks, catering to the needs of various customer segments.
Hertz is committed to providing exceptional customer service and has implemented several initiatives to enhance the rental experience. The Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program allows customers to earn points on their rentals, which can be redeemed for free rental days or other rewards. Additionally, Hertz offers various insurance and protection options to ensure peace of mind for its customers.
In recent years, Hertz has also embraced sustainability and environmental responsibility. The company has introduced electric and hybrid vehicles into its fleet, reducing its carbon footprint and promoting eco-friendly transportation options.
Despite its long-standing success, Hertz faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, as travel restrictions and reduced demand for rental cars impacted its operations. However, the company has shown resilience and adaptability, implementing safety measures and introducing flexible booking policies to meet the changing needs of customers.
In conclusion, Hertz Corporation is a renowned car rental company with a rich history and global presence. With a commitment to customer service, innovation, and sustainability, Hertz continues to be a trusted choice for individuals and businesses seeking reliable transportation solutions.
