Italian rental firms take stock

The pause in activity caused by the coronavirus pandemic is being taken as an opportunity by many Italian rental companies to train their employees and update customer processes, according to Italian rental association Assodimi.

For example, a recent survey by the association showed that firms have been using the time to create digital forms and short video tutorials on the correct use of equipment.

A statement from Assodimi said, “The sharing of information and ideas is the weapon that makes the association strong; training and professionalisation could be an excellent service for members during this period.”

Companies have also discovered that efficiency gains can be made by the digitalisation of processes. For instance, it was said that contacting customers online can be more effective than a phone call and faster than a personal visit.

Assodimi has also suggested a longer-term effect of the pandemic could be that rental companies diversify their fleets to penetrate more sectors.

Those rental companies that have decided to remain open during this period – albeit with reduced staff – have been following government guidelines by providing staff with personal protective equipment (PPE).

Several companies have set up outdoor stations for direct contact with customers, including the receiving of equipment. And where possible, employees are working remotely.

People and workstations are regularly sanitised, with machines being cleaned every time they enter or leave a depot.

The number of new coronavirus cases appears to have peaked in Italy. To date, almost 170,000 cases have been reported and more than 22,100 deaths.