While these percentages pale before the dramatic percentage improvements of the late 1990s, there is a significant difference. Looking at percentage increases such as the total 100's 59-percent growth in 1999, or the top 10 posting 55-, 36- and 56-percent jumps from 1997 through 1999, those massive leaps were fueled by acquisition as companies rolled out their platforms by acquiring revenue. But current rental volume increases, by the top 10 as well as the 100 as a whole, are being achieved by organic, mostly same-store growth, as large rental companies improve operations and learn to run more profitably and efficiently.
The top rental companies are growing faster than the economy as a whole, further evidence that rental penetration is growing and rental is becoming an increasing part of the fabric of the construction market. The percentage of construction equipment sold to rental fleets continues to spike up annually and rental increasingly is the preferred way of doing business for construction companies of all sizes. And the trend is growing around the world.
The year 2006 might also be remembered as the year of private equity. Private equity funds bought NES Rental, Hertz Corp. (including Hertz Equipment Rental Corp.) and RSC Equipment Rental, later taking HERC public. So far in 2007, one private equity group acquired Neff Rental from another, and the seller — Odyssey Partners — almost the same week announced it had acquired the tank business from NES Rentals.
The rental industry's largest company, United Rentals, began the process of exploring strategic alternatives and industry observers expect a number of private equity groups to bid for the Greenwich, Conn.-based giant, or at least seriously consider it.
While consolidation, at least as far as national chains buying regional platform companies, has slowed to a trickle, consolidation among larger players is a growing factor. Last year's No. 4 — Sunbelt Rentals — bought last year's No. 6, NationsRent, and the resulting combined company has now usurped the No. 2 spot from previous No. 2, RSC Rental. Last year's No. 13 — Aggreko — acquired last year's No. 21, G.E. Energy Rentals. The acquired revenue won't be factored in until next year's RER 100 listing, but if G.E. Energy Rentals' revenue was included in this year's listing, Aggreko would probably be in the No. 7 slot.
Acquisitions and mergers among top players are likely to continue over the next couple of years, and possible mergers could be being discussed as you read this. The search for efficiencies and synergies is a normal part of the progression of an industry and the rental industry is no exception.
Speaking of the industry's top 10 and private equity, remember when NES Rentals was founded in 1996 by Kevin Rodgers with the backing of a private equity group? Well, as part of Prospect Partners, Rodgers is back and his Rental Holdings — the sum of several acquisitions — debuts on the RER 100 this year at No. 64. With more possible acquisitions in the pipeline, we can expect Rental Holdings to rise higher over the next few years.
While the industry's largest players have always been competitive in the marketplace, there is now contention for the No. 2 slot in the industry, although its executives likely have more important concerns, such as enhancing profitability.
In an interesting twist, Sunbelt Rentals, RSC Equipment Rentals and Hertz Equipment Rental Corp. all may stake legitimate claims to being the North American rental industry's second-largest company. According to RER's criteria of annual rental volume, Sunbelt Rentals gains the No. 2 spot on the RER 100 based on its larger rental volume. However, its revenue numbers are pro forma — that is they include revenue earned by NationsRent before it was acquired by Sunbelt during 2006. Its numbers are, however, representative of its current size. RSC could, if it wished, claim to be the second largest based on having earned its rental revenue entirely as RSC. Meanwhile, the North American rental division of HERC, No. 4 on the 100 list based on rental revenue estimated by RER, brought in the most total revenue according to our sources, and therefore could also claim to be the second largest. HERC certainly tops the other two in terms of revenue per branch by a large number.
However you want to slice it and dice it, our list stands as it is and we can say one thing about all three companies. It doesn't really matter which is listed where. What does matter is they are all apparently quite profitable, with strong systems, continually improving efficiencies, and well-prepared, highly professional management teams.
And if the large rental companies continue to improve their efficiencies and service customers more effectively, they will do much to expand the reach and grasp of the rental industry and further its penetration into North American business, and that will benefit the rental industry as a whole and all the companies in it.
The top companies appear to be as healthy financially and organizationally as ever before, continuing to make giant steps in their metamorphoses into professionally run corporations with efficient systems and business-savvy management teams.
Rental executives at all levels emphasize more than ever that while the quality of equipment is constantly improving and that companies are ever more efficient in software, dispatching, planning utilization, safety procedures and analysis of return on invested capital, it still comes down to people. The rental transaction is still people renting from people. Efficient programs have to be planned by people; sophisticated maintenance and service schedules have to be administered by people, and service and repair must be carried out by skilled people.
Of course as many will tell you, volume cures everything. It isn't hard to be healthy when business is booming. As cycles of the past have shown us, the test is yet to come. However, a theme repeated over and over again this year by RER 100 executives is how they are focusing on improving efficiencies. The successes of the past couple of years owe their debt primarily to a strong economy. But the improvements began before the economy turned around as rental companies learned lessons from the early years of this decade and operated more efficiently than in the past. The continued mantra of improving efficiencies has enabled rental companies to maximize the returns that have come naturally with a strong economy.
You can see it in improved software that can drill down to find waste, or as the “lean” gurus would say, “muda.” In service departments, in trucking and dispatching software, in smart technologies that utilize satellites as well as cyberspace, the level of professionalism in the systems being run continues to make strides comparable to the volume leaps we're currently seeing.
Suppliers are becoming smarter as well and so are customers, whose expectations of performance and metrics for measuring that performance are more sophisticated than ever before.
The year 2006 was a “leap” year that propelled the industry forward dramatically. In 2007, the hurdles might get higher, but the players might be in better shape than ever before.
| 1 | UNITED RENTALS (1)
Greenwich, Conn.
Wayland Hicks
www.ur.com | $2,530.0 | $3,640.0 | 696 | About to turn 10, United Rentals has gone from an upstart defying expectations to an industry veteran with strong economic performance, service- and efficiency-enhancing software, and technology innovations in a variety of areas. A skilled, seasoned and educated management team will have to prove itself without 40-year business professional and 10-year United executive Wayland Hicks, who will retire as CEO in June. Announced plan to explore strategic options last month. With private equity funds currently eyeing the rental market with favor, United Rentals should attract numerous suitors and record-setting offers. |
| 2 | SUNBELT RENTALS (4)
Fort Mill, S.C.
Cliff Miller
www.sunbeltrentals.com | $1,536.0 | $1,681.0 | 454 | Revenue includes that of NationsRent acquired in mid-year and finalized in October, a strategic purchase that vaults the fast-growing Sunbelt into the No. 2 slot. Owned by U.K.-based Ashtead, which recognized potential synergy with last year's No. 6 listee, Sunbelt has used strong marketing and management capability to grow steadily, both through organic improvement as well as acquisition. The addition of solid NationsRent management along with a larger footprint should only strengthen Sunbelt, which features a wide range of equipment classes plus specialty branches for pumps, generators, scaffolding and more. |
| 3 | RSC EQUIPMENT RENTALS (2)
Scottsdale, Ariz.
Erik Olsson
www.rscrental.com | $1,368.7 | $1,652.9 | 452 | Private equity players Ripplewood and Oak Hill acquired RSC for an industry-record $3.8 billion in 2006 and are in the process of taking the company public. With the youngest fleet among the industry's leading players at 25 months, disciplined fleet management to enhance pricing, and a profitable balance sheet, its IPO could bring in major investor growth, respectively, and operating income growth of 76, 44 and 31 percent. Not one to stand still. |
| 4 | HERTZ EQUIPMENT RENTAL CORP. (3)
Park Ridge, N.J.
Gerry Plescia
www.hertzequip.com | $1,345.0* | $1,795.0* | 275 | With higher total equipment rental division revenue than Sunbelt or RSC, could be the industry's second-largest depending on how it's measured. With rental volume per branch at more than $1 million higher than either of its top four competitors, HERC might be the most productive of the industry's national players. Its expansion into supplies and smaller equipment sizes, along with impressively remodeled stores, has enhanced its ability to service corporate accounts and larger contractors. Ownership transitions haven't deviated HERC from its game plan, and consistency in management and system philosophy has kept it healthy. |
| 5 | HOME DEPOT RENTALS (5)
Atlanta
Jim Summers
www.homedepotrents.com | $615.0* | n/a | 1,202 | Taking a more analytical, selective approach to rental growth — instead of building rental departments in all new stores, analyzing each market individually, studying market trends and demographics to measure demand for rental among core customers. Housing slowdown can also stimulate home remodeling and repair, condo growth, so company prospects remain healthy. Summers plans to slow store growth and improve operational efficiencies, make departments more profitable. |
| 6 | NES RENTALS (7)
Chicago
Andrew Studdert
www.nesrentals.com | $483.9 | $616.7 | 123 | Company acquired by private equity players last year. Divested New England crane and aerial rental business to crane rental player AmQuip as well as 13-location tank rental division to private equity group. Industry observers expect traffic control and safety division to follow suit as company plans to concentrate on aerial rental business. |
| 7 | MAXIM CRANE RENTAL CORP. (8)
Bridgeville, Pa.
Art Innamorato
www.maximcrane.com | $315.0* | $365.0* | 37 | A strong year for crane rental during peak production cycle, but supply could catch demand by mid-'08. A well-versed management team strengthened by solid software and systems should help Maxim ride the current boom for a while and hopefully know where to land. Branches can provide management, rigging, engineering, transportation and outsourcing. |
| 8 | NEFF RENTAL (9)
Miami
Juan Carlos Mas
www.neffcorp.com | $276.0 | $331.0 | 67 | A 19.1-percent year-over-year growth in rental volume didn't hurt Neff's attractiveness as Odyssey Business Partners sold the company to Lightyear Capital less than two years after Odyssey bought it. Lightyear, not new to the rental business, includes BakerCorp., formerly Baker Tanks, a liquid and solid containment equipment rental and leasing services business as part of its portfolio of companies. With 66 branches in mostly southern and Southwest states, Neff is run by a solid management team that has brought the company back strong from tough times. |
| 9 | H&E EQUIPMENT SERVICES (11)
Baton Rouge, La.
John Engquist
www.he-equipment.com | $251.4 | $804.4 | 49 | Follows what it calls an integrated model of serving as a dealership with in-depth service capabilities and also being a major rental player. Grew rental volume nearly 32 percent in 2006. Improved margins in all four major divisions in '06 and hiked EBITDA 37 percent. Projects strong '07 and continues to explore acquisition and start-up opportunities. Particularly strong in aerials, cranes, earthmoving and haul trucks, fork trucks and more. |
| 10 | SUNSTATE EQUIPMENT CO. (10)
Phoenix
Mike Watts
www.sunstateequip.com | $240.0* | n/a | 46 | Had a particularly strong year in Utah, Texas, California and Phoenix markets. Rental volume grew about 20 percent year over year. Has plans for several start-ups in 2007. Always strong in systems, continuing to put strong emphasis into hiring, training and development of personnel. |
| 11 | AHERN RENTALS (12)
Las Vegas
Don Ahern
www.ahernrentals.com | $236.9 | $266.1 | 38 | Opened four new branches already this year (included in 38 total) and continues to dominate Las Vegas scene and be one of the major players in western United States. A 31.6-percent rental volume increase continues Ahern's string of remarkably fast-growing years, along with major western competitor Sunstate. Company derives nearly 70 percent of revenue from high-reach equipment rental, and now has almost 17,000 high-reach units in its rental fleet. |
| 12 | AGGREKO NORTH AMERICA (13)
Houston
George Walker
www.aggreko.com | $210.0 | 292.0 | 53 | Numbers don't include G.E. Energy Rentals, acquired by Aggreko and finalized in December. With inclusion of G.E. numbers, the Scottish-based company with U.S. base in Houston could move as high as No. 7 as it solidifies and grows already massive strength in power-generation, temperature-control and oil-free air markets, in North America and around the world. |
| 13 | FINNING (16)
Edmonton, Alberta
Paul Gour/Harry Hoyer
www.finning.ca | $208.2 | $2,262.5 | 30 | A 29-percent rental volume increase, on top of better than 40 percent in '05 shows vast power and potential of western Canada's market, between Alberta's oil sands and the upcoming 2010 winter Olympics in Vancouver. Still, Finning's numbers outpace the market. Rental revenues increased in Canada as a result of higher investment in rental assets required to meet higher customer demand. Increased investment in Cat Rental Stores and made strategic acquisitions. The company expects continued growth with construction spending for infrastructure, commercial and residential projects. |
| 14 | ALL ERECTION & CRANE RENTAL CORP. (14)
Cleveland
Michael Liptak
www.allcrane.com | $205.0* | n/a | 29 | Strong performance and solid crane demand has helped boost All's performance. Recent purchase of 250 aerial work platforms from JLG indication of company's efforts to expand in the boom market, particularly the industrial aerial segment. Brands include Grove, Manitowoc, Linkbelt, Lull, Gradall, Terex, Broderson, Shuttlelift, National Crane, Snorkel, JLG and Genie. |
| 15 | RING POWER (17)
Jacksonville, Fla.
Randy Ringhaver
www.ringpower.com | $182.0* | n/a | 14 | Despite an estimated 15-percent volume increase in '06, this Florida Caterpillar dealer is facing a housing slowdown in '07, and is not expecting to continue the accelerated growth pace of recent years. The recently established government division is oriented to do business with government agencies including a web portal to help customers make bids and price jobs for rental and sales. Opened 108,000-square-foot facility in Tallahassee this month. |
| 16 | VOLVO RENTS (15)
Asheville, N.C.
Barry Natwick
www.volvorents.com | $172.4 | $209.0 | 73 | Had 70 stores at end of fiscal '06. While the company closed a few branches, successful stores became more successful. With more than 20 additional franchisees signed up, Volvo Rents continues slow and steady growth, enhancing training programs to improve quality of franchise performance and investing more in franchises. Opened in Puerto Rico and Mexico City, looking at other international markets to expand program, now more than 140 locations worldwide. Working with new software system as well as SmartEquip technology to improve efficiencies. |
| 17 | AMECO (18)
Greenville, S.C.
Gary Bernardez
www.ameco.com | $165.3 | n/a | 26 | Focusing on fleet outsourcing and site services in most of the world, Ameco increased rental volume 27 percent in 2006 with distribution in North and South America. Off to a strong start in 2007 as it celebrates 60-year anniversary. Safety record remains unparalleled, now six years and 16 million hours without a lost-time injury. |
| 18 | PATENT CONSTRUCTION SYSTEMS,
Division of Harsco Corp. (—)
Harrisburg, Pa.
Robert Safier
www.harsco.com | $155.0* | $226.0 | 45 | Part of a $3 billion-plus corporation, major services include the rental of concrete shoring and forming systems, scaffolding and powered access equipment for non-residential construction, and international multi-dwelling residential construction projects; as well as a variety of other access services including project engineering and equipment erection and dismantling. Patent focuses on North America market, with other divisions engaged in international business. |
| 19 | BRIGGS EQUIPMENT (19)
Dallas
Roger Jetton/David Bratton
www.briggsequipment.com | $139.3 | $500.0* | 41 | Figures include almost $30 million in Mexico rental revenue. Now expanding into U.K. with Briggs International, focusing on U.K. material handling market. Nice 15-percent rental volume increase in 2006. Focuses on aerial equipment, earthmoving, material handling, compaction and concrete equipment. |
| 20 | AMQUIP CRANE CORP. (—)
Bensalem, Pa.
Frank Bardonaro
www.amquip.com | $135.0 | n/a | 11 | Specialist in rental of Manitowoc, Terex, Link-Belt, Liebherr cranes. The company recently acquired former Shaughnessy Crane Services business from NES Rentals and formed alliance with Elliott Crane to become major player in Ohio, Georgia and the Tennessee Valley region. One of the world's top 10 crane rental companies. |
| 21 | ESSEX CRANE RENTAL (20)
Buffalo Grove, Ill.
Ron Schad
www.essexcrane.com | $118.5* | n/a | 19 | Essex' five fully equipped service centers are a strong support to its extensive crane-rental fleet. Parts inventory claims to include the largest and most complete assortment of boom tops and inserts in the world. A long-time Manitowoc customer, with the world's largest Manitowoc crane fleet, Essex last month acquired several of its new 14,000 units, a mid 200-ton class crane. |
| 22 | BATTLEFIELD EQUIPMENT RENTALS (23)
Stoney Creek, Ontario
Randy Casson
www.battlefieldequipment.ca | $88.0 | $159.0 | 34 | Strong 19-percent increase for Ontario-based Cat Rental Store. Recently acquired Sunrise Rentals in Timmins, Ont. Vibrant Canadian economy keeps Battlefield in the fight. Online “invoice lockup” provides details of all rental and sales transactions, copies of delivery and pickup documents, and real-time reports of rental equipment on customers' jobsites. Offers more than 20 types of training and certification courses and can custom-design training according to customer needs. Operates Cat Rental Stores in Ontario, Manitoba and Newfoundland. |
| 23 | HOLT CAT (22)
San Antonio
Peter Holt
www.holtcat.com | $86.5 | $1 billion+ | 17 | Fifteen-percent increase for Texas' biggest and one of the world's largest Caterpillar dealers. Recently purchased a large shell building for Longview branch. CEO Holt, is a fourth-generation Holt-family leader. |
| 24 | EMPIRE MACHINERY (24)
Mesa, Ariz.
Dave Mullaney
www.empirecat.com | $73.0* | n/a | 14 | Growth continues for the leading Southwest Cat dealer. Allied brands include Allmand Bros., Broce Brooms, Challenger, Gomaco, Kenworth Water Trucks, JLG and Yamaha. |
| 25 | WAGNER RENTS (26)
Denver
Bruce Wagner
www.wagnerequipment.com | $65.8* | n/a | 18 | Another excellent year for one of Caterpillar's longest-running rental programs. Opened branches in Windsor, Colo., and Las Cruces and Hobbs, N.M., with Windsor and Hobbs rental stores co-located with the Wagner dealership. Expecting another big year in 2007. In addition to earthmoving and power generation divisions, Wagner has a specialty pump rental division, which ships custom-prepared pump packages around the world, as well as engineering, manufacturing and supporting pump products. |
| 26 | BLANCHARD RENTAL SERVICES (30)
West Columbia, S.C.
Joe Blanchard, president; Bill Gregory, rentals
www.blanchardmachinery.com | $65.6 | n/a | 7 | A 46-percent rental volume increase on top of 76 percent the previous year makes South Carolina-based Cat dealer's recent growth one of the industry's fastest. Company decided to keep inventory levels in 2007 at year-end 2006 levels in expectation of more modest 2007 growth. Responded to need for technicians by partnering with Cat dealers of North Carolina and Florence-Darlington Technical College to develop Caterpillar Dealer Academy to train individuals in the specific needs of Blanchard and Caterpillar. |
| 27 | ECCO EQUIPMENT CORP. (25)
Santa Ana, Calif.
Don Schmid
www.eccoequipment.com | $65.1 | $68.7 | 11 | Another strong year for Southern California's leading heavy equipment rental specialist. Has four locations that serve as service and storage facilities. Not a Cat dealer, but rents mostly Cat heavy equipment, plus Volvo articulating trucks, some Deere backhoes, Hitachi and Komatsu excavators as well as Gradall forklifts. Has a $1 million-plus bucket inventory. |
| 28 | CASHMAN EQUIPMENT (27)
Las Vegas
Mary Kaye Cashman
www.cashmanequipment.com | $62.5* | $575.0* | 6 | Last month opened branch in Carson City, the company's sixth Cat Rental Store location. The 1,500-square-foot rental center includes rental and service departments and a four-bay service shop. Plans to move headquarters to a 53-acre site in Henderson next year. Owns nearly $30 million worth of parts. |
| 29 | RED-D-ARC WELDERENTALS (29)
Austell, Ga.
Mitch Imielinski
www.red-d-arc.com | $56.0* | $79.0* | 41 | Locations in United States and Canada, leading player in welder rentals continues its strong growth and financial performance. Also has a branch in Mexico and recently expanded to fast-growing Dubai. Features broad range of gas, LPG, diesel and electric-powered welders, with a variety of packages. |
| 30 | SIMS CRANE & EQUIPMENT CO. (28)
RENTALS
Tampa, Fla.
Steve Stodghill
www.simscrane.com | $54.0 | $68.0 | 10 | More than just a crane rental player. $100 million-fleet includes equipment by Tadano, Kobelco, JLG, Shuttlelift, SkyTrak, Airtrax, Terex and Champion. |
| 31 | STAR RENTALS (34)
Seattle
Bob Kendall
www.starrentals.com | $48.0 | $71.0 | 17 | Strong 18.5-percent rental volume increase for leading Northwest player with a major market share in Washington and Oregon. Kept employee head count the same while increasing revenue and size of fleet. Designated a “virtual branch” in Tacoma to test efficiencies in communications, which improved purchasing, transfer of documents and invoicing of customers. It subsequently upgraded all systems and locations. Beginning to see cooling in a few markets but still expecting growth in 2007. |
| 32 | KELLY TRACTOR (35)
Miami
John Socol
www.kellytractor.com | $46.3* | n/a | 9 | Cat dealer for Miami and surrounding areas to Ft. Myers on Florida's west coast and as far north as Orlando. Allied brand manufacturers include Link-Belt cranes, IMT drilling rigs, Sullair, Barber-Greene, Wacker, Massey Ferguson, Harlo, Taylor and Eagle Picher. |
| 33 | LOCATION D'OUTILS SIMPLEX (32)
Montreal
Andre Veronneau
www.simplex.ca | $45.0 | $56.3 | 31 | Strong player has 30 branches in Quebec and one in the capital of Ottawa. Services include a wide-ranging inventory, excellence in repair and a variety of customer training courses. |
| 34 | MUSTANG RENTAL SERVICES (33)
Channelview, Texas
Louis Tucker
www.mustangcat.com | $44.5 | n/a | 8 | More than 8-percent rental revenue growth for Houston-area Cat dealer with long history in rental. Embracing 6 Sigma methodology to improve operational processes. |
| 35 | OHIO CAT (31)
Broadview Heights, Ohio
Kenneth Taylor
www.ohiocat.com | $44.3* | n/a | 12 | Flat year in 2006 for Ohio Cat dealer that handles almost all of Ohio. Rental power group offers generators, air compressors, dehumidifiers, heaters, fuel tanks, transformers, cooling towers and chillers. Beginning to feel the effects of housing slowdown, but still a strong Midwestern rental player. |
| 36 | HOLT OF CALIFORNIA (37)
Pleasant Grove, Calif.
John Johnson
holtca.cat.com | $42.4* | n/a | 8 | Opened a new store in Vacaville in 2006, home of an Air Force base as well as a penitentiary. Business increased nicely in northern California market and the company expects 2007 to be even better. JLG-built telehandlers have been well received. |
| 37 | WAJAX LTD. (70)
Mississauga, Ontario
Neil Manning
www.wajax.com | $42.2 | $536.3 | 30 | Fueled by strong demand and early '06 acquisitions, Wajax increased rental revenue, total revenue and earnings. Although growth may be moderating in Alberta, it's accelerating in other regions. In December, merged operations of western Canada, Ontario and eastern Canada under a common management group to enhance efficiencies and reduce costs, enhance cost recovery programs and asset reductions through central management of parts and whole goods inventories. |
| 38 | HAWTHORNE RENT-IT SERVICE (36)
San Diego
Tom Hawthorne
www.hawthornecat.com | $42.0 | n/a | 14 | In addition to San Diego, Orange and Riverside counties, Hawthorne is the Caterpillar dealer in northern Baja California, Mexico; Saipan; Guam; Tonga and American Samoa. Operates dedicated high-reach rental and sales location as dealer in Riverside and San Bernardino counties for Grove Worldwide Crane, National Crane and Mitsubishi forklifts. |
| 39 | EQUIPMENT DEPOT (39)
Waco, Texas
Don Moes
www.eqdepot.com | $41.5* | $165.0* | 12 | Recently held a grand opening of its new Brazosport, Texas, facility. Business continues strong for industrial forklift, construction and aerial rental specialist, part of the growing Pon group of companies that now owns another Equipment Depot in the Chicago area. Owns truck and tire facility in Dallas area and a dozen forklift service centers in Texas and Louisiana. Its strength is in the uniqueness of each branch, efficiently designing equipment mix in each location according to the particulars of the market. Its growth is proof the approach is working. |
| 40 | STEPHENSON'S RENTAL SERVICES (48)
Mississauga, Ontario
Willie Swisher
www.stephensons.ca | $39.0 | $47.0 | 18 | A 30-percent rental volume increase and 36-percent EBITDA boost in 2006 for long-time leading Toronto-area rental company. The acquisition of competitor A-1 Rentals paid off as has a more construction-oriented approach and a computerized dispatch system. Mild winter weather didn't help new heating division, but kept construction equipment utilization high through winter months. Changes in Canada's tax laws led the company to explore strategic alternatives early this year; and the process is ongoing. |
| 41 | MODERN EQUIPMENT (38)
Bristol, Pa.
Dave Griffith
www.moderngroup.com | $38.3 | $180.0 | 22 | Working with technology to improve sales/rental coverage and management, opportunity identification and customer loyalty. Benefits from ESOP, a strong employee motivational structure. Is seeing slowdown in housing and industries that support it as well as a slowdown in the industrial base in company's markets. Still growing rental fleet, maintaining utilization and growing market share. One of company's strengths is planning — looking ahead and trying to be prepared for changes before they occur. |
| 42 | MacALLISTER MACHINERY (42)
Indianapolis
Chuck MacAllister
www.macallister.com | $37.5* | n/a | 6 | Indiana's Caterpillar dealer carries products from more than 50 suppliers in its rental centers, with boom and vertical lifts, air compressors and welders, carrydeck cranes and boom trucks, light towers, compaction equipment, concrete work tools and more. |
| 43 | SCOTT CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT (46)
Monroe, La.
Scott Cummins
www.scottcompanies.com | $37.4 | n/a | 18 | An 18-percent increase marks another solid year for major Louisiana-based distributor with branches in Arkansas, Mississippi and Tennessee. In addition to construction, involved in farm equipment, logging, lawn-and-garden, forklifts, irrigation, farming and real estate. Also sells new and used trucks and tractor-trailers. Volvo dealer since 2000, recently joined with another Volvo dealer to buy Iowa and Nebraska Volvo dealer. |
| 44 | TRICO EQUIPMENT (40)
Vineland, N.J.
Joseph Pustizzi Jr.
www.tricoequipment.net | $37.0 | $67.0 | 9 | Major player in south Jersey/Philadelphia rental market, strong in construction and aerial and one of the largest family-run distributor/rental companies on the East Coast. Company's strengths include civil engineering, equipment design and site management and an active ownership that gets face-to-face with customers on an ongoing basis. Excels in modifying equipment to meet requirements of complex jobs, raising the concept of partnering with the customer to a high level. Expecting a strong 2007, especially in aerials, which boomed in '06 while dirt equipment slowed along with the housing market. |
| 45 | CLAIREMONT EQUIPMENT (40)
San Diego
Jerry Zagami
www.clairemontequipment.com | $35.7 | n/a | 5 | Komatsu, JLG and Bomag are the primary lines that keep this long-time San Diego star shining brightly. Jerry Zagami runs the rental division while his brother Ron runs the machinery side for one of the largest dealerships in southern California. Although best known for big iron, its rental centers run the full gamut of equipment from hand tools on up. Its branches cover Southern California from Fontana to Indio to Escondido. Nearly 40 years as a Zagami family business. |
| 46 | GREGORY POOLE EQUIPMENT (47)
Charlotte, N.C.
Gregory Poole III
www.gregorypoole.com | $35.5 | $391.0 | 10 | Another double-digit increase (17.5 percent) for Charlotte-based Caterpillar dealer, which covers eastern portions of Carolinas and Virginia. Construction of a truck service center in Raleigh began in July 2006, and plans are nearly complete for a new facility in Mebane, N.C., slated to open in 2007. |
| 47 | IMPERIAL CRANE SERVICES (44)
Bridgeview, Ill.
B.J. Bohne
www.imperialcrane.com | $35.0 | $42.0 | 5 | This Chicago-area crane and aerial specialist experienced another 10-percent rental volume increase in 2006. Family-owned and operated since 1969, and historically involved in heavy industrial and manufacturing industries, adding a major new construction presence in later years. Field estimators can make jobsite visits, take photographs, prepare site diagrams, and meet with project design and engineering staff to plan appropriate equipment. |
| 48 | ART'S RENTAL EQUIPMENT (50)
Newport, Ky.
Ken Arlinghaus
www.artsrental.com | $34.8 | $45.3 | 11 | Solid 18.4-percent rental volume jump for major Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky rental company. Has wide-ranging construction inventory with large supply capability. |
| 49 | YANCEY BROS. (49)
Austell, Ga.
Tom Tucker
www.yanceybros.com | $34.3* | n/a | 14 | Another strong year for Georgia Caterpillar dealer, expecting continued strong performance in 2007. Recently named Loegering Dealer of the Year for 2006 for its work with its versatile track system, which enables customers to change a skid-steer loader from rubber tires to rubber tracks in an hour. Recently opened branch in McDonough, Ga. |
| 50 | THOMPSON PUMP & MFG. (45)
Port Orange, Fla.
Bill Thompson
www.thompsonpump.com | $33.2 | $56.3 | 20 | Increased production capability with an assembly team approach, turning out 33-percent more finished product from the same space. Established new training programs in all areas. Continuing drought conditions in western U.S. slowing down pump rental there, but most regions continue to have strong demand. Still expecting a strong '07 and an upturn in '08 because of large backlog of infrastructure improvements and enhancements that must be addressed. |
| 51 | RED MOUNTAIN MACHINERY (51)
Chandler, Ariz.
Owen Cowing
www.redmountain.com | $30.7 | $44.0 | 3 | Another double-digit increase for southwest-based heavy equipment rental specialist. Not a Cat dealer, but primarily rents Cat equipment. Has developed a big business in selling and custom-designing Maintainer service trucks. Offers a variety of training programs for customers as well as staff. |
| 52 | CONECO EQUIPMENT (59)
Edmonton, Alberta
Kelly Scott
www.coneco.ca | $30.0* | n/a | 20 | Alberta boom has fueled strong growth for Komatsu dealer. Coneco Equipment merged with Terratech in January '07 to create multi-province Komatsu dealership including British Columbia, Yukon, Northwest Territories, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario. |
| 53 | LOUISIANA RENTS (43)
Reserve, La.
Jay Dinger
www.louisianamachinery.com | $29.3 | $36.6 | 6 | Louisiana Caterpillar dealer converted a large portion of rent-to-sale income into leases in 2006. Leases aren't reported as rental income, so rental volume decreased but total revenue and profits rose in 2006. Because of the hurricane, disposed of older inventory and replaced rental fleet with new iron. Current fleet averages only 14 months. Adding Cat and allied products to fleet and expecting a strong year in '07. |
| 54 | PUCKETT RENTS (55)
Richland, Miss.
Hastings Puckett
www.puckettrents.com | $28.3* | n/a | 4 | Caterpillar dealer covering central and southern Mississippi continues to enjoy solid growth and market position. Rental program strong in aerials, air compressors, compaction and paving equipment, concrete, cranes, earthmoving, generators, material handling, pumps, pressure washers, trucks, trailers and welding equipment. |
| 55 | PETERSON RENTS (57)
San Leandro, Calif.
Eric Martin
www.petersontractor.com | $27.8* | $58.0* | 9 | Continuing to enjoy solid growth and strong demand in a large area of northern California that spans from the Bay Area north. |
| 56 | COWIN EQUIPMENT CO. (52)
Birmingham, Ala.
James Cowin
www.cowin.com | $27.4 | $100.0+ | 8 | As a company, Cowin Equipment Co. dates back to the 1920s. Began selling and renting Ingersoll Rand air compressors in the 1930s, putting the Cowin family among rental's founding fathers. Current CEO is likewise a long-term thinker, more focused on margins and foundations for growth than volume for its own sake, and the company enjoys record volume and profitability. A $60-million rental fleet and the infrastructure to deliver and maintain it makes Cowin one of the most formidable forces in the South. |
| 57 | PATTEN INDUSTRIES (60)
Elmhurst, Ill.
Crain Patten
www.pattenindustries.com | $27.0 | $46.0 | 7 | A 23-percent rental volume increase, on top of 40 percent the year before, propells this Caterpillar dealer into a strong market position in the Chicagoland rental universe. Adding field and counter sales staff and putting heavy focus on training inside and outside sales force has fueled growth, along with higher rates and new high-utilization machines to fleet. Purchased its own delivery trucks after years of outsourcing, also obtained new dispatching software. Expects continued strong demand in '07. |
| 58 | WACO SCAFFOLDING & EQUIPMENT (56)
Cleveland
Marty Coughlin
www.wacoscaf.com | $26.0 | $93.0 | 16 | Scaffolding, shoring and forming specialists continue to occupy a definite market niche and with 62 years of history to rely on, continues to perform. Owned by its own management team, still has scaffolding expertise and drive. It manufactures, rents, leases and sells highly respected brand of tubes, frames, clamps, stages and platforms. Provides fixed and modular suspended scaffolding. |
| 59 | STOWERS RENTS (58)
Knoxville, Tenn.
Wes Stowers
www.stowerscat.com | $25.8 | $202.0 | 6 | Continues to grow despite a limited East Tennessee market, one of Caterpillar's smallest territories. Started in rental in the mid-90s. Owner Wes Stowers was smart enough to hire experienced rental operator Joel Harper who instilled mentality, attitude and structure friendly to short-term rentals of compact equipment with rental's rapid pace, while having an airtight dealership to back it up. New Knoxville headquarters is one of the rental industry's finest facilities. |
| 60 | SOUTHEASTERN EQUIPMENT CO. (54)
Cambridge, Ohio
William Baker
www.southeasternequip.com | $25.7 | $124.0 | 17 | Long one of Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana's strongest players, a long-time fixture with Case and Bomag. Began the business in a Quonset hut 50 years ago and almost immediately began to represent Case. Now one of the strongest regional distributorships/rental companies in the industry. |
| 61 | COMPRESORES & EQUIPOS (65)
San Juan, P.R.
Francisco de Armas
www.compresores.com | $25.3 | $30.1 | 7 | A 28-percent rental volume boost in Puerto Rico's lively construction market. Ranging from light to heavy and including aerial, a wide-ranging fleet with its own delivery trucks facilitates Compresores' ability to be a one-stop shop and play a leading role in the market. Youthful management team showing strong business acumen and capacity to lead. |
| 62 | EMECO NORTH AMERICA (76)
Houston
Don Jeffery/Clark Moseley
www.emecoequipment.com | $25.1 | $63.3 | 6 | Increased rental volume 72 percent with explosive growth in Alberta's oil sands market plus a new business in Kentucky serving the Appalachian coal industry. Australia-based parent company grew net profit 66 percent in recently concluded six-month period with growing business in Indonesia, the Netherlands, and Australia. Focuses primarily in earthmoving equipment and has added supply of used and reconditioned parts. Established in North America in 2003; looking to continue expansion pattern. |
| 63 | WORLDWIDE RENTAL SERVICES (60)
Aurora, Colo.
Jim Maetzold
www.worldwidemachinery.com | $25.1 | $32.0 | 5 | Fourteen-percent rental volume jump. Business steady in most of company's markets, although housing is softening and highway/heavy markets are spotty, while commercial and environmental markets are solid. Company expects softening to be offset by contractors' tendency to rent instead of buying because of uncertainty of future work. An earthmoving and heavy-equipment specialist. Broke ground on permanent Salt Lake City facility in October after seven years in temporary locale. |
| 64 | ANDERSON EQUIPMENT CO. (53)
Bridgeville, Pa.
Judy Anderson
www.andersonequip.com | $25.0 | n/a | 14 | A third generation family-owned company, Anderson is a Komatsu dealer with a strong rental program. Inventory ranges from skid-steer loaders to 75-ton excavators. Has more than 70 service trucks. More than 50 percent of Anderson personnel have been with the company 10 years or more; more than 70 percent of service technicians have more than 15 years industry experience. |
| 64 | RENTAL HOLDINGS (—)
Chicago
Kevin Rodgers
www.industrialhoist.com
www.bhairtools.com
www.deltawirerope.com
www.247studioequipment.com | $25.0 | $72.0 | 11 | Rental Holdings, founded by Prospect Partners and led by NES founder Kevin Rodgers, consists of Delta Industrial Services with locations primarily in the Gulf Coast (though products are shipped all over the country — more than 40 states in 2006), and 24/7 Studio Equipment in Burbank, Calif. Delta consists of the former Delta Wire Rope and Industrial Hoists. Delta and 24/7 are growing fast and Rodgers is still hot on the acquisition trail. |
| 66 | B&G EQUIPMENT & SUPPLY (—)
Birmingham, Ala.
Marty Hardin
www.bgequipmentsupply.com | $24.4 | $34.9 | 3 | First-time listee has branches in Atlanta and Orlando. Has high-average $8.1 million rental volume per location. |
| 67 | PUERTO RICO WIRE (64)
San Juan, P.R.
Jose Cestero
www.puertoricowire.com | $24.2* | n/a | 4 | Owned by the Cestero family since 1945, also has construction supply and forming divisions. Has hundreds of thousands of parts, worth more than $1.5 million, extensive service capability and wide-ranging fleet from lawn-and-garden to highway/heavy. Strength is commercial construction, also caters to government projects, homeowner and more. |
| 68 | UNITED SCAFFOLDING (77)
an Xserv Co.
Baton Rouge, La.
Mike Appling Jr.
www.unitedscaffold.com | $24.0 | $102.0 | 10 | A 66-percent rental volume increase for one of the country's top scaffolding specialists. Has more than $100 million in inventory. Services include maintenance and turnarounds, engineering and CAD design, scaffold rental and sales, erection and dismantling, jobsite tracking and training programs. Branches primarily in southern states. Clients include major corporations such as Bechtel, Brown & Root, Chevron, Conex, Exxon/Mobile, Fluor, Honeywell, Kerr-McGee, Shell and more. |
| 69 | ADMAR SUPPLY CO. (62)
Rochester, N.Y.
Joel DiMarco
www.admarsupply.com | $23.4 | $40.7 | 5 | Part of a group of companies specializing in the acquisition, planning, construction and management of commercial and residential properties. General contractor, asset management, facility maintenance companies and equipment sales and leasing, all working hand in hand with rental. Family owned, the DiMarcos have played a major role in rental and development of upstate New York for years. |
| 70 | FABICK RENTS (73)
Fenton, Mo.
Robert Lawrence/Chuck Justus
www.fabickcat.com | $23.3 | $37.1 | 5 | Nearly a 50-percent rental volume jump for Missouri and southern Illinois Caterpillar dealer with strong inventory and capability in power generation rentals as well as construction. Strong customer relationships — probably learned a few things in 90 years of doing business. |
| 71 | REBEL RENTS (63)
Temecula, Calif.
Rick Clause
www.rebelrents.com | $23.1 | n/a | 9 | Makes effective promotional appearances at local construction-oriented trade shows, along with nice billboards in marketing area. Another year of double-digit rental volume growth as company continues to turn itself around. |
| 72 | NORTH CENTRAL RENTAL & LEASING (67)
Fargo, N.D.
Dan Butler
www.butler-machinery.com | $22.4 | n/a | 9 | Strong 21-percent rental volume increase for North Dakota Caterpillar dealer with longstanding rental program. Has $85 million rental inventory. Online services include build and quote; document review, which can search parts and invoices by customer number, part number, serial number, purchase order and more; as well as fleet management capability, 24-hour parts and online results of fluid analysis. |
| 73 | RUPP INDUSTRIES, DBA TEMP-AIR (68)
Burnsville, Minn.
Dick Brown
www.temp-air.com | $22.2 | $24.1 | 11 | Specializing in temporary heating, cooling, ventilating, dehumidifying construction, industrial and special events sites. In business since the mid-60s, currently believed to be for sale. |
| 74 | DIAMOND RENTAL (68)
Salt Lake City
Mark Clawson
www.diamondrental.com | $22.0 | $24.0 | 18 | A 22-percent rental volume increase on top of last year's 33 percent and Diamond Rental continues to grow in its market area. Acquired in 2000 by Rubicon Ventures, was one of the first acquisitions by private equity groups in this century. One of the leaders of a trend, just as it sets the pace along the Wasatch Front. |
| 75 | SPIDER, DIV. OF SAFEWORKS (66)
Tukwila, Wash.
John Sotiroff
www.spiderstaging.com | $21.4* | $42.6* | 25 | Celebrated 60th anniversary in February. Started with powered basket in 1947, now has extensive swingstage fleet, sophisticated powered access equipment and the expertise to back it up with a team of engineers. Designs permanently installed access systems for structures such as high-rise buildings, bridges, water towers, chimneys, dry docks, offshore oil platforms, container cranes, ships, solar turbine generators, silos, dams or power plants. |
| 76 | HUGG & HALL EQUIPMENT (71)
Little Rock, Ark.
John Hugg/Robert Hall/Jim Hugg
www.hugghall.com | $20.8 | $85.0 | 7 | Twenty-six-percent rental volume jump for Arkansas' leading rental supplier, representing Volvo, Hitachi, Toyota, Bobcat, Crown, Doosan, Sky Trak, Bobcat, JLG, Genie and others. Has large supply of forklift accessories, attachments and GNB industrial batteries and chargers. Large forklift fleet ranges from 2,000- to 35,000-pound capacities. Rents mobile storage units as well. |
| 77 | MIDWEST AERIALS & EQUIPMENT (78)
St. Louis
Daniel Tumminello
www.midwestaerials.com | $19.0 | $23.0 | 3 | A 36-percent rental volume jump along with improved profitability gave Midwest staff plenty to smile about, as did the St. Louis Cardinals World Series victory! Additional fleet, investment in training staff and information management systems and trucking software along with boom in commercial construction all contributed to solid performance. Hands-on management team who aren't afraid to get out on the jobsite and get their shoes dirty. |
| 78 | HALTON RENTAL (83)
Portland, Ore.
Glenn Moragne
www.haltonrental.com | $17.5 | $21.0 | 6 | A 39-percent rental volume jump a big year for Halton, which started strong in '07 with milder winter weather. Hosted an open house this month for newly completed East Portland facility. |
| 79 | COLORADO MACHINERY (86)
Colorado Springs, Colo.
Keith Olson
www.coloradomachinery.com | $17.0 | $133.9 | 9 | A 38-percent rental volume jump propels Colorado Machinery to a strong position in a competitive marketplace. Claims to be the leading dealer of John Deere, Bobcat and Ingersoll Rand equipment in the Rocky Mountain region. |
| 80 | CAPITAL RENTALS (80)
Dulles, Va.
Brian Vaughan
www.capitalrentals.com | $16.8 | $26.6 | 8 | Washington, D.C. metropolitan area's leading general rental company enjoyed a 22-percent rental volume increase in '06. Authorized dealer for Multiquip, Husqvarna, Hitachi, EDCO and Airman. |
| 81 | ALL STAR RENTS (74)
Fairfield, Calif.
Ken de Vries
www.allstarrents.com | $16.3 | $17.2 | 11 | Focusing on driving the ROI of equipment and reducing internal paperwork by combining large equipment into one fleet that all locations can rent without having to re-rent to owning location. Opened 11th location in Carson City, Nev. Increasing investment in employee training for all levels of the company, developing key accountabilities to bring clarity and efficiency to all positions. Formed new leadership team to distribute areas of responsibility and develop management capability from within. |
| 82 | ROLLS SCAFFOLD & HIGH REACH (83)
Ventura, Calif.
Michael Rolls
www.rollsscaffold.com | $16.1 | $16.8 | 3 | Strong year with 28-percent rental volume jump; targeting $20 million in revenue this year. Covers northern and southern parts of L.A. metro area and out east to Inland Empire with scaffolding, scissors and booms, shoring, forklifts and pedestrian protection tunnels. |
| 83 | LIFTING GEAR HIRE CORP. (87)
Bridgeview, Ill.
Pat Fiscelli
www.lgh-usa.com | $15.6 | $21.2 | 8 | A 29-percent rental volume increase for eclectic Lifting Gear, which specializes in hoisting, rigging, handling, pulling, jacking, safety equipment, cable-handling, load measurement and more. Working on adding addition to historic Tacoma Narrows Bridge in Washington, providing electric winches and come-a-longs to erect new suspension bridge parallel to existing bridge. |
| 84 | BERRY COMPANIES (75)
Wichita, Kan.
Walter Berry
www.berrycompaniesinc.com | $15.2 | $179.1 | 22 | Celebrating 50 years in business under Berry family ownership. Bobcat, Komatsu and Yale are company's leading brands. Strong player in Kansas, Colorado and Houston area. |
| 85 | MIDLANTIC MACHINERY (85)
Hatfield, Pa.
Jim McKeever
www.midlanticmachinery.com | $14.9 | $120.0 | 7 | The longest-tenured continuous Komatsu dealer in the U.S. with a successful rental program in eastern Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland. Offers operator and maintenance training for utility equipment, backhoe loaders, wheel loaders, dozers, hydraulic excavators and trucks. Can tailor the curriculum to customers' needs. |
| 86 | ROLAND MACHINERY CO. (71)
Springfield, Ill.
Ray Roland
www.rolandmachinery.com | $14.9 | $206.0 | 15 | RMC has branches in Illinois, Missouri, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana. 75 percent is Komatsu construction, mining, utility, forestry. Also, Wirtgen, Metso, LeeBoy, new equipment, used, rental fleet, rental/purchase options and rent to rent. Dropped in rental volume, but grew in total volume. Has $70 million-plus rental inventory to draw from. |
| 87 | AMERICAN EQUIPMENT RENTALS (81)
Providence, R.I.
Chris Tribelli
www.aerentals.com | $14.3 | $17.7 | 3 | New England aerial and forklift specialist offers JLG, Genie, MEC, Lull, Gradall, Skyjack, Terex aerials and telehandlers, UpRight, Sky Trak and Snorkel. |
| 88 | THEROS EQUIPMENT (92)
Gainesville, Va.
Joel Theros
www.therosequipment.com | $12.6 | $37.0 | 4 | A 19-percent rental volume increase for Virginia rental company that ranges from large excavators and dozers to homeowner and hand tools. Full-line dealer for New Holland Construction and Ag, Kobelco, Mustang track loaders, Bush Hog implements, Toro Dingos, Multiquip, Allen Engineering and more. Handles parts for a large variety of additional manufacturers. |
| 89 | NUECES POWER EQUIPMENT (88)
Corpus Christi, Texas
Clifton Bradshaw
www.nuecespower.com | $12.5* | $49.5* | 7 | Covers the deep south of Texas from Laredo to El Paso, Corpus Christi and San Benito. Carries Case, Kobelco excavators to 100,000 pounds, Kawasaki wheel loaders, Ingersoll Rand, Leeboy pavers, Tramac breakers, Reynolds scrapers and buggies, ASV rubber-track loaders, Broce brooms and more. |
| 90 | ENTECH SALES & SERVICE (78)
Dallas
Pat Rucker
www.entechsales.com | $12.1 | $52.3 | 5 | Rental volume dropped but total volume up along with profits, in large part because of ongoing business from new customers gained during '05 hurricane season. Long established in chiller rentals, entered power rental business four years ago with increasing success. Fear of hurricanes drove business in '06, inspiring customers to make plans in advance for temporary power. Same dynamic may not carry through '07. Still, with larger customer base and additions to generator inventory, expects strong business this year and through '08. |
| 91 | PDQ RENTALS (89)
Santa Fe Springs, Calif.
Dennis Turner
www.pdqrentals.com | $11.9 | $15.8 | 2 | Continued growth for PDQ despite softening in Southern California housing sector. After 55 years in business, still one of the oldest and strongest general rental players in competitive California market. |
| 92 | NATIONAL LIFT TRUCK (93)
Franklin Park, Ill.
Jim Dietz
www.nlt.com | $11.7 | $24.5 | 2 | Another good year for forklift specialist, which deals in JLG aerial, SkyTrak, SkyJack, Sellick and Clark. Added a facility on the south side and became a Clark forklift dealer, which company expects will add a lot of sales volume in '07. |
| 93 | CALIFORNIA HIGH REACH (94)
Modesto, Calif.
Roy Airington
— | $11.1 | $12.1 | 1 | Added more than $5 million in fleet in '06, expecting a “gangbuster” year in Northern California aerial market. |
| 94 | COASTLINE EQUIPMENT (97)
Long Beach, Calif.
Del Hosler
www.coastlineequipment.com | $10.5 | $100.0* | 9 | Southern California Deere dealer continues solid growth, adding bare crane rental to its offering. Added Sacramento and Reno locations offering Tadano rough-terrain cranes, Manitex boom trucks, Manitou forklifts and Carelift rough-terrain forklift line for rental. Expects a slight softening in California markets. |
| 94 | STAFFORD EQUIPMENT (—)
Tifton, Ga.
John Wall
www.staffordequipment.com | $10.5 | $155.0 | 11 | Major southeast player from North Carolina to South Georgia representing Terex cranes, earthmoving equipment and rigid frame trucks; Link-Belt excavators; Kobelco excavators and cranes; Liebherr crawler loaders; New Holland, Moxy articulated dump trucks and Hyundai construction equipment; Bomag, Etnyre, Gomaco and Terex roadbuilding equipment. On the lighter end carries Deere utility mini-excavators, skid-steer loaders and backhoes and serves the commercial landscape market in south Georgia. |
| 96 | RENTALMAX (96)
Wheaton, Ill.
Terry Hagy
www.rentalmax.com | $10.1 | $10.9 | 10 | General rental inventory with more than 1,000 categories of equipment and a frequent renter program that gives away items such as Chicago sports caps for frequent rentals. Need a Cubs hat with that mini-excavator? Consistent year-after-year growth in Chicago area proves it keeps them coming in the door. |
| 97 | A TOOL SHED (95)
Campbell, Calif.
Larry Pedersen
www.atoolshed.com | $10.0 | $10.0 | 7 | Dry winter and spring has led to a strong start in '07 for major general rental company of San Jose and surrounding areas. Able to reinstate two paid holidays for employees that had been taken away during leaner times. Housing market still strong in San Jose area, a lot of home maintenance, buying and selling of properties, which stimulates rental business. |
| 98 | METROLIFT (—)
Sugar Grove, Ill.
Ricky Dahl
www.metrolift.com | $9.7 | $11.2 | 1 | One of major aerial companies in spread-out Chicagoland market. Focusing on internal processes and operational procedures in '07, emphasizing training for employees and customers, developing key performance indicators to measure. Daily 15-minute meetings have enhanced communications between departments. Taken delivery on more than 200 new units in early '07 and expects continued strong growth this year. Looking into upgrading CRM software and equipment-tracking systems. |
| 98 | KROPP EQUIPMENT (—)
Schererville, Ind.
Al Kroop
www.kropp.us | $9.7 | $13.0 | 3 | Innovative aerial company, added Loegering quad-track system to 60-foot booms for use in adverse conditions. Recently opened Milwaukee branch. First-time listee. |
| 100 | ROAD MACHINERY (—)
Phoenix
Masao Tsukuda
www.roadmachinery.com | $9.4 | $69.0 | 8 | Returns to the RER 100 after falling slightly short last year. Heavy earthmoving specialist in southwestern states, representing Komatsu, JRB, Bomag and more. |
| 100 | EL CAMINO RENTAL (98)
Carlsbad, Calif.
Ted Donnelly
www.elcaminorental.com | $9.4 | $10.0* | 4 | New housing has slowed in San Diego North County where a typical house sells for $680,000. Company was always housing-focused in the past, will shift focus in '07 to commercial and industrial rentals. Began an ESOP and is now an employee-owned company. |
| HONORABLE MENTION
Here are three more companies that are close enough they deserve to be listed! |
| 102 | ILLINI HI-REACH (—)
Lemont, Ill.
Larry Workman
www.hi-reach.com | $9.1 | $11.4 | 2 | Aerial specialist added second location to cover northwestern suburbs of greater Chicagoland, reducing trucking costs, overtime and service reaction times. Improved receivables with addition of dedicated manager, also added delivery trucks and drivers and sold off older equipment. Continued strong presence on major projects, with onsite service and parts deports. Adding online rentals for major accounts. |
| 103 | PIONEER EQUIPMENT RENTAL (100)
Ponca City, Okla.
Larry Redwine, John Redwine
www.pioneerrental.net | $9.0 | $12.9 | 8 | A 20-percent rental volume increase for top Oklahoma rental company. Opened a branch in Enid in August. |
| 104 | OXFORD BUILDERS SUPPLIES (—)
London, Ontario, Canada
www.oxfordbuilders.ca | $8.7 | $10.1 | 2 | With branches in London, Ontario, and Calgary, Alberta, company has wide range of construction equipment and supplies. |
| *Denotes RER estimate based on regional economic conditions, industry sources and interviews by members of the RER staff. Other revenue figures are based on actual reported revenue for North American operations as of April 25, 2007. Location data are as of April 25, 2007, to the best of the knowledge of the RER staff. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy and thoroughness, omissions sometimes occur. All figures are in U.S. dollars. In the case of some Canadian companies that reported figures in Canadian dollars, the figure listed is based on the average conversion rate for the year according to the Bank of Canada. |
