[By NBC-1TV E. H Kim]Avis Budget Group, Inc. (Nasdaq:CAR) announced that it has named Avis South Africa as the Avis Licensee of the Year for Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) in recognition of its ongoing commitment to providing customers with world-class products and services and for responsible corporate citizenship.

Operating at nearly 20 airport locations and 130 downtown locations, Avis South Africa provides customers with a wide range of transportation solutions to serve the needs of business and leisure customers. Avis South Africa offers car, van and truck rentals as well as coach charter services for groups as small as 10 and as large as 60. Travelers also benefit from Avis' world-renowned customer service excellence, premium chauffeur-driven services, vehicle leasing services and devices for drivers with physical disabilities.

“Avis South Africa has been serving the car rental needs of customers in the region for more than 40 years, and their passion and commitment to service excellence are unwavering,” said Larry De Shon, president, EMEA, Avis Budget Group. “They consistently exceed customers' expectations and have set an example for licensees across EMEA. We applaud their achievements and contribution to helping us grow the business.”

Whether to experience one of South Africa‘s “Big 5” safaris (buffalo, elephant, lion, leopard and rhino), bungee-jump off the Bloukrans Bridge (the world’s highest commercial bridge bungee jump), take in the Country‘s natural beauty at its many beaches, forests or mountains, or learn about the nation’s history and heritage, South Africa is a popular tourist destination for people around the globe. In fact, last year more than eight million tourists visited the country.

“Tourism is one of the fastest growing sectors in South Africa,” said Keith Rankin, chief executive officer, Avis South Africa. “We take great pride in delivering the best transportation solution for our customers and are proud to receive the Avis Licensee of the Year award for EMEA. We look forward to continuing to exceed customer expectations.”

The Avis Licensee of the Year recognition follows a series of industry accolades for Avis South Africa. Avis South Africa was named the “Best Car Rental Company” at the BT Africa Business Travel Awards and was awarded first place in the car hire category at the South African Service Awards. Avis South Africa also received the Sunday Times' Top Brands Award for the “Best Car Hire” for the ninth consecutive year. And for the fifth year in a row, Avis South Africa was selected as the “Best Fleet Management Company” in South Africa by the Professional Management Review.