06.10.2014

Sunbelt acquisition in LA

The Sunbelt Rentals division of Ashtead has acquired the construction rentals business of Ventura Rental Center in California.

The company was acquired from owner Ted Cook, who took over the business in 2000 from his father in law, Ron Holley, who founded it in 1958. Cook’s wife Heidi Whitcomb runs the party rental division which is not included in the sale.

Ventura Rental operates a general fleet which includes telehandlers, aerial lifts and scaffolds from two locations in Ventura, on the northwest side of the greater Los Angeles area. Sunbelt is planning to add a wider range of equipment and expand the fleet. Cook will remain with the company during the transition period, while his son Perry has been appointed as profit centre manager for the two Ventura locations.

Sunbelt’s executive vice president of business development Kurt Kenkel said: “Ventura Rental Center is an ideal fit into our strategy of acquiring quality, well-run businesses that provide us with a solid foundation for growth in their respective markets. This acquisition allows Sunbelt to expand our presence in the greater Los Angeles market.”

“Many independent mid-sized businesses like ours are currently enjoying great successes with solid and growing opportunities,” added Cook. “However, we are also under significant pressures. Joining forces with a rapidly growing equipment rental company represents a great opportunity for the future of Ventura Rental and provides a more comprehensive equipment offering and service network to our valued customers. The whole team looks forward to gaining access to additional equipment and to thriving in the entrepreneurial environment that Sunbelt presents to each store and each team member.”