09.05.2012

AFI acquires Light Hire

UK access rental company AFI has acquired the powered access rental business of Exeter based Light Hire.

The move is intended to strengthen the company’s presence in South West England and will operate under the A J Rentals brand.

Light Hire was founded by Brian Light in 1996 and runs a fleet of around 100 aerial lifts. Light sold the three depot non-powered access rental business to Brandon Hire in 2005 for £500,000 in cash (See Light hire sold) retaining and building the powered access operation. It is IPAF + certified.

A J Rentals currently has a fleet of 500 machines with depots in Swansea and Caldicot, near Newport.

AFI director Nick Selley said: “Light Hire is highly regarded for the quality of its equipment and high levels of customer service. Its fleet has been well maintained and has benefited from on-going investment. The acquisition is good news for Light Hire’s customers because we can offer them a UK network of 18 depots and access to a fleet of over 4,500 machines and a comprehensive range of industry accredited training courses.”

“This exciting news comes just days after our acquisition of Instant Training, which will substantially expand our training business, and is a further demonstration of how AFI’s strong financial position is allowing us to capitalise on opportunities in the market.”