Just been on to Economy Car Hire and was disappoined to see that the name of the supplier is not displayed. I e-mailed them to ask for an explanation. Seemingly they are trying out a new website where the name of the supplier is not shown until after the booking is confirmed.

They say that it enables them to be more competitive in the market and also makes sure that bookings are sent to the suppliers who provide a better service. It also provides a better experience for their customers as they do not have to decide which supplier to choose.

This system is being tested at the moment and feedback from existing customers is being taken on-board. Although they are already seeing a positive response to these changes.

If you would like to book with a specific supplier they can still arrange this for you, however you will need to call their office on +44 (0)1362 853 938 to speak with a member of their reservations team who will be happy to place your booking for you over the phone at our normal price. You are currently eligible for our loyalty discount, this will still be provided over the phone.

I like to pick my supplier as there are a few I would not use, but now we will not get on line discounts. What do other Economy Car Hire regulars think?

Used them last time - car came from Interent at the lowest price of a whole raft of suppliers - and we got an upgrade to a larger one. Personally I have little preference on supplier - I always go for the cheapest option as long as the car suits and ECH seem to offer this - although Auto Algarve do beat them regularly and you do get a choice!

Sorry, I misunderstood e-mail from economy car hire. I have been advised that I will be able to choose car rental firm over the phone for discounted price. I am pleased that they are looking after their regular clients. Never had a problem with booking a car from them.

Click on Book (no obligation) and you can see who the supplier is. If you don't like them, go back to the previous page and choose again. A bit of a pain - but if you have a preference, you'll think it's worth it.

Country: Portugal - Mainland
Pick Up: Faro Airport (FAO)
Return: Faro Airport (FAO)
Start Date & Time: 18 December 2009 at 18:45
End Date & Time: 04 January 2010 at 15:45
Supplier: Air Auto

Thanks Michael for that information.

I've just been through the same process, Michael, for our next booking. Have no problems with ECH, but there is one of their suppliers that I would never use again, and one which we prefer. For regular bookers the original system was much better.

I tried it this morning and it all seemed the same to me. Am I missing something as all the choices turned up on the first click, except International which was good news

just tried website and still the same, we use ECH - Drive4fun and have always had great service.

Haven't looked at their website before posting this but used them in October following recommendations on this forum and was very pleased, particularly with cost. However. i did follow the advice to avoid some of their suppliers so i'd want to be able to select. The earlier posts suggest this is still possible -hope so.