FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — NationsRent Companies Inc. announced it purchased Jenco Inc., a provider of aerial equipment rentals, sales and service in the New York/New Jersey metropolitan area.

Jenco, which began operating in 1998, built an excellent industry reputation based on strong customer service, quality equipment and responsive delivery times. The Jenco sales and management team have accepted positions with NationsRent.

Bill Stewart, northeast regional vice president for NationsRent, will oversee the integration of Jenco's business into the company's operations in the New York/New Jersey metro area where the company currently operates locations in Brooklyn, N.Y.; Freeport, N.Y.; S. Ozone Park, N.Y.; North Arlington, N.J.; and Perth Amboy, N.J.

“I am thrilled to welcome all of the Jenco associates to the NationsRent team,” said Stewart. “With their help, we will provide even better coverage to one of the major equipment markets in the world. As part of this acquisition, Jenco customers now have access to a significantly expanded offering of equipment, along with parts, merchandise and services. The Jenco acquisition is an important event for us, as it accelerates our plan for building market share by increasing rental fleet availability and improving customer service in the New Jersey and New York markets.”

NationsRent also recently celebrated the grand opening of its 100^th NationsRent At Lowe's store in Hialeah, Fla.

“This location highlights the competitive advantage of the one-stop shopping experience we provide for Lowe's and NationsRent customers at our NationsRent At Lowe's locations,” said Jeff Putman, CEO of NationsRent. “Additionally, a customer can rent or buy anything that NationsRent offers from stand alone NationsRent locations at the Lowe's store location. If the customer needs delivery or technical support, we are structured to respond appropriately.”

The new location showcases the latest NationsRent At Lowe's prototype layout, which is designed for maximum product presentation and the greatest level of customer convenience. The grand opening event featured food, door prizes, and equipment information.

NationsRent is No. 6 on the RER 100.