THE future of 75 jobs in Marlow is in doubt after two car management leasing companies merged.

VELO, in Station Road, merged with Leasedrive Holdings UK based in Crowthorne, on January 2. The news comes after the announcement that 100 jobs could be on the line at RHM headquarters in Liston Road, Marlow.

Bisto and Hovis manufacturers RHM is in merger talks with Premier Foods plc, owners of makes such as Ambrosia custard, Branston pickle and Hartley jams.

As reported in the Free Press last week Premier has indicated that it will close the Marlow headquarters if the deal goes ahead.

Now jobs also look uncertain at VELO's headquarters.

Leasedrive VELO has a combined annual turnover of £55 million and employs around 80 staff in Marlow and 110 in Crowthorne.

It advises companies and employees on renumeration packages, including company cars or their cash alternatives.

The merger makes it UK's largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group with a combined vehicle fleet of around 17,500 cars.

Commercial director Roddy Graham said: "We expect to retain all of our existing clients and the plan is to grow the business in the future.

"But like anything in this situation, no-one can say there won't be anyone losing their job.

"Whenever there is change some people won't like it. At the moment there is no decision about whether we would be better running from both sites or a single site and we are looking at all options."

Mr Graham did point out however that an initial assessment showed there was very little duplication or job overlap between the two companies.

He added: "Its business as usual here in the office.

"There will have to be a review eventually, but there will be a full consultation with staff and no decision has been made yet."