United Rentals last week announced the opening of two new branches in Texas. The Von Ormy, Texas, branch is the 16th new rental location opened this year. United Rentals has said that a total of 30 to 35 branch openings are planned for 2005.

The 7,000-square-foot facility will serve customers throughout Bexar County with equipment rentals, new and used equipment sales, repair and maintenance services, and a comprehensive line of contractor supplies.

"Von Ormy is a thriving city south of San Antonio and home to many of the industries that drive our economy, including agriculture and automobile manufacturing,” said Clarence Jackson, branch manager for United Rentals.

The Von Ormy branch carries a broad range of equipment for commercial and industrial construction, renovation and maintenance, including the latest technologies in aerial work platforms. United Rentals also offers equipment delivery, certified safety and professional operator training, and 24-hour emergency response.

In addition, the company opened its newest aerial equipment branch in Round Rock, Texas. The new 11,000-square-foot facility will provide customers in the greater Austin metropolitan area with equipment rentals, new and used equipment sales, repair and maintenance services, and a comprehensive line of contractor supplies. "The private sector has pledged $1.56 million to promote the city of Round Rock’s economic development,” said Rob Slivinsky, branch manager for United Rentals. “United Rentals is pleased to be a part of that growth.”

The new branch will rent aerial work platforms, as well as forklifts, scaffolding and related equipment for commercial and industrial construction. United Rentals also offers equipment delivery, certified safety and professional operator training and 24-hour emergency response.

Greenwich, Conn.-based United Rentals is No. 1 on the RER 100.