It is estimated that Leaseurope represents approximately 93% of the European leasing market. In 2007, 340 billion euros of new leasing volumes were granted by the firms represented through Leaseurope's members (a 13% increase compared to 2006), contributing to financing just under 20% of European investment. Moreover, these firms are responsible for the leasing and rental of around 17 million vehicles throughout Europe.

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Preliminary results for European leasing show that leasing remained a key source of finance for businesses’ investment needs in 2008

Preliminary market data from Leaseurope reveals that the portfolio of leased assets in Europe at the end of the 2008 is estimated to be in the region of €780 billion, a 4.5% increase compared to the previous year.

While the European lease portfolio has continued to progress, new business volumes granted by the leasing companies represented through Leaseurope member associations fell somewhat during the course of 2008. Based on data provided by its members, Leaseurope estimates that total new volumes worth €316 billion will have been granted in 2008, a decrease of around 7.7% in relation to 20071. However, it is important to note that exchange rate variations have been more important than in previous years and, if these effects are excluded, the estimated decline in new volumes in real terms is less severe and is close to 5%.

Although leasing volumes will have slowed in 2008, European leasing was still responsible for financing on average approximately 28% of European investment, excluding real estate. Leaseurope Chairman, Rüdiger von Fölkersamb, stresses that "the leasing industry's contribution to the European economy remains strong. Given the security of the asset, leasing companies can often provide a viable alternative form of finance to businesses who are struggling to find funds in the current economic climate."

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