H&E Equipment Services’ crane division last week held a grand opening at its new full-service crane facility in Houston. More than 250 customers, vendors, employees and neighboring businesses participated.

The new branch replaces two older facilities, combining the H&E Grove and Manitowoc dealerships under one roof. The branch is located on nearly 11 acres of land, with 7,000 square feet of office space, a 7,600-square-foot parts warehouse, and a 22,000-square-foot shop facility. The shop is equipped for large crane repair jobs, with two 5-ton and two 10-ton overhead cranes.

“We are now better able to continue to provide outstanding rental, sales, parts, service and training for crane customers in the future,” said branch manager Steve Flood. “The new facility gives us the space, tools and resources we need to keep our competitive edge and demonstrate our commitment to the crane business.”

Open house attendees enjoyed a self-guided tour of the facility, exhibits, equipment demonstrations and a southwestern buffet. Guests also experienced the new Manitowoc Crane CARE mobile simulator. Based on the Manitowoc 2250 crane, the simulator allows participants to see what it’s like to get behind the controls of a crane and build their own bridge.

Baton Rouge, La.-based H&E is No. 10 on the RER 100.