19.10.2009

Hitchens create One Stop

Steve and Danielle (Danni) Hitchen, previously of Ainscough Crane Hire have formed One Stop Hire Ltd from two significant Acquisitions.

The two have purchased the assets of Bolton-based PSL, which went into administration on 30th September and SJS Hire Tools.

PSL had nine branches throughout North West England and a wide range of equipment including access towers, ladders and other access equipment.

The two have also acquired SJS Hire Tools, based in Wrightington, Wigan from Steve Etchells and Family. SJS has three branches with a small team of long-serving employees.

Managing director Steve Hitchen said: ”One Stop Hire, which began life in 2006 as a ‘Virtual Hire Website’, has in the space of a week become the largest Independent tool & equipment rental operation in the North West.

Hitchen was heavy cranes director at Ainscough until he left in July “ to pursue other interests” While Danni Hitchen, Martin Ainscough’s daughter, was previously responsible for marketing until mid 2008.
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(L-R)Steve and Lynne Etchells with Danielle & Steve Hitchen, new owners of SJS

“We are absolutely delighted to have acquired such long-established businesses, PSL was started in 1984 and SJS was formed in 1982, both companies being operated by many of the original staff that have been at the firms since formation. Collectively the companies carry over 8,000 items of hire equipment. To complement this they have facilities to repair customers’ own tools, plant and equipment and also sell a vast array of tools, work wear and consumables,” He added.

“Both PSL and SJS have loyal and deep rooted customer bases in their respective areas and we very much look forward to servicing their requirements in the future.”

“Our plan is to re-brand and integrate the two businesses, creating synergy benefits, taking customer service to new heights. We will be employing over 40 people at 10 strategically located Hire Centres in the North West with plans for expansion in the not too distant future.”