14.01.2011

Hewden spends £20 million

UK rental company Hewden has announced a £20 million investment in new construction equipment. The company says that this is first stage in one of the largest investment programmes by the plant hire sector since the start of the recession and marks a ‘vote of confidence’ in the future of both the company and the construction sector.

Hewden was bought by private equity firm Sun European Partners for £110 million from Finning last May. In the UK Hewden runs the second largest crane rental fleet, is the third largest in powered access and the largest in telehandlers.

“Hewden is building closer relationships with the leading players in the construction, infrastructure, environmental and industrial market sectors, creating partnerships that deliver a more efficient supply chain,” said Hewden Chief Executive Kevin Parkes. “We are determined to increase levels of availability so plant and equipment is ready for hire, where and when customers need it. This £20 million investment is just the first stage in our development plans for 2011 and is a clear sign of our commitment to customer service and achieving growth.”
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Kevin Parkes

JCB has taken the majority of the spend with orders worth £14 million including Loadall telescopic handlers.

“This investment is a major enhancement of our plant hire fleet,” said Hewden product director, Andrew Swallow. “We have selected the very best product in each category, based on the clear preferences of our customers and working with “best in class” suppliers, who support the strategic development of our business.”

Parkes said this investment is likely to be followed by further initiatives.
“We currently focus on five product platforms - plant, access, cranes, power generation and accommodation - and we will be investing in each of these areas but we are also exploring opportunities to expand our range with complementary products. During 2011 this is likely to include the re-introduction of a specific range of tools for hire, so we can support customers with a full product offer, further improving efficiency and service.”