British Speedy Hire Looks at European Expansion Possibilities

Speedy Hire, the United Kingdom’s largest tool and equipment rental company, is looking at expanding its business into other European countries in partnership with infrastructure construction group Carillion, the U.K.-based Manchester Crain’s Business reported in its online edition.

Speedy last week said it entered into a five-year strategic partnership with Carillion, strengthening its position as the group’s preferred supplier of products and services. Speedy chief executive Steve Corcoran said if Speedy is going to support Carillion, it would have to be present wherever Carillion operates. Speedy has 488 depots throughout the U.K. but overseas is only present in the Republic of Ireland.

Speedy has evolved beyond pure tool and equipment rental and added outsourced machine repair and maintenance. Commercial director Mike McGrath said Speedy may branch into equipment management training among other areas.

Carillion has operations in other European countries, as well as Canada, the Middle East, North Africa and the Caribbean.

Speedy officials said they didn’t expect these expansions to take place in the next six months.

The company is based in Newton-le-Willows, England.