A-Plant, one of the U.K.’s largest plant, tool and equipment rental companies, is opening new stores under the brand name Tool Hire Express. A-Plant has an existing network of 125 branches in the United Kingdom offering a wide range of construction equipment. The new brand will focus on smaller tools and supply items, and will primarily locate stores near city centers.
A-Plant opened its first Tool Hire Express in Manchester city center in May. Pleased with the store’s development, A-Plant is opening new Tool Hire Express stores in Mansfield, Sheffield, Plymouth and Central London in the coming weeks.
A-Plant developed the Tool Hire Express concept after seeing an increase in the number of its customers working within city centers and immediate vicinity, particularly in office construction. Product lines will include heating and air conditioning, drills and breakers, cutters, grinders and saws. Tool Hire Express will also offer specialist equipment for lifting and handling, materials handling, low-level access, painting and decorating, gardening and landscaping, alloy towers, surface preparation, building, painting, decorating, carpet cleaners and more.
“As part of our long-term strategy we have identified a number of potential locations where customers will benefit from our services,” said A-Plant marketing and strategic accounts director Asif Latief. “Manchester Tool Hire Express is in a convenient location of the city center, making it easily accessible and convenient for customers. It was our pilot store and is proving to be very successful. The opening of the stores is also good news for the local community as we are seeking to create local job opportunities including apprenticeships.”
A-Plant is also offering A-Guard insurance, which protects customers from potential damage to the equipment. Tool Hire Express customers will also be able to book a range of training courses, which can be delivered at the customer’s premises or any of A-Plant’s 19 training centers across the country.
A-Plant is the sister company to Sunbelt Rentals; both companies are owned by Ashtead Group plc. A-Plant is based in Warrington, U.K.
