Aerial equipment maker Haulotte Group last week announced it sold its French rental activity to the Loxam group. The sale includes Lev and Royans Levage companies, which operate about 2,000 machines distributed throughout 25 branches. The companies contributed slightly more than € 30 million (about U.S. $44 million) in revenues to Haulotte Group in 2007.

“This handover will have a positive impact on the Haulotte Group 2008 accounts and will strengthen its financial and human capacity to develop its business in and outside Western Europe,” said Alexandre Saubot, Haulotte Group chief operating officer. “These emerging countries will fuel Haulotte Group profitable growth over the next few years.”

Loxam Group chairman Gérard Déprez said: “Lev, recognized as a leader in lifting equipment rental, will contribute to the development of the lifting equipment dedicated division of Loxam in France and Europe.

Haulotte Group had total revenues of €519.3 million (U.S. $763.1 million) in 2006 and expected 25 percent growth in 2007. The company continues to reinforce its production capacity, launch new products, and expand its global sales network.

With locations in 10 European countries, Loxam Group is a major player in equipment rental. With a network of 550 locations, Loxam achieved an estimated consolidated turnover of €740 million (U.S. $1.08 billion) in 2007.