Avis Rent A Car announced that it has won the 2008 World Travel Award for the “World’s Leading Business Car Rental Company.” The annual World Travel Awards acknowledge and celebrate excellence in the world’s travel and tourism industry, based upon feedback from experts in the travel profession.

“The World Travel Awards are regarded as the highest achievement in the travel industry,” said Graham Cooke, president and founder of the World Travel Awards. “Votes were cast by more than 160,000 experienced travel professionals around the world and to be recognized by these individuals demonstrates Avis’ excellence and achievements.”

Winners were selected using key criteria including employee and customer satisfaction, business performance, product expansion, innovation and creativity.

“We are proud to accept this distinguished honor on behalf of the thousands of Avis employees who do whatever it takes for their customers,” said Tom Gartland, executive vice president of sales and marketing for Avis Budget Group, parent company of Avis Rent A Car. “Delivering award-winning service requires a team effort by employees both on the front lines and behind the scenes. Working together, ‘We Try Harder’ to deliver a customer experience that is second to none.”

Previously, Avis was recognized as “North America’s Leading Car Hire” and as the “Leading Car Rental Company” for the Caribbean at the World Travel Awards regional ceremony.

“Travel professionals are valued partners to Avis and we appreciate the contributions they make to our success,” Mr. Gartland said. “As we continue to introduce new products and services, we remain committed to helping travel agents satisfy their clients’ car rental needs, as well as provide them with opportunities to earn extra incentives through exclusive promotions and sweepstakes.”