Hewden invests £20 million in new hire equipment.

A major £20 million investment in new construction equipment has been announced by Hewden, the national multi-product hire specialist.

This is the first stage in one of the largest investment programmes by the plant hire sector since the start of the recession and marks a "vote of confidence" in the future of both the company and the construction sector, as Hewden Chief Executive Kevin Parkes explained:
"Hewden is building closer relationships with the leading players in the construction, infrastructure, environmental and industrial market sectors, creating partnerships that deliver a more efficient supply chain."

"We are determined to increase levels of availability so plant and equipment is ready for hire, where and when customers need it. This £20 million investment is just the first stage in our development plans for 2011 and is a clear sign of our commitment to customer service and achieving growth."

A major winner in the programme is JCB, which receives orders worth £14 million for a range of Loadall telescopic handlers, JCB mini excavators, tracked and wheeled excavators and the new 3CX Eco backhoe loaders.

The other significant supplier to gain a major contract from Hewden is Thwaites, who win orders for more than 125 dumpers from across their range.

As Hewden Product Director, Andrew Swallow commented, the investment transforms the Hewden hire fleet.

"This investment is a major enhancement of our plant hire fleet. We have selected the very best product in each category, based on the clear preferences of our customers and working with "best in class" suppliers, who support the strategic development of our business."

"We scrutinised competing products to make sure we achieve new levels of safety, reliability and deliver more efficient performance to our customers."

This investment is likely to be followed by further initiatives at Hewden in 2011, as Chief Executive Kevin Parkes explained:

"We currently focus on five product platforms, with plant, access, cranes, power generation and accommodation and we will be investing in each of these areas but we are also exploring opportunities to expand our range with complementary products."

"During 2011 this is likely to include the re-introduction of a specific range of tools for hire, so we can support customers with a full product offer, further improving efficiency and service."

Hewden
9th Floor Trafford House
Chester Road
Stretford
Manchester
M32 0RL
UK

T: 0161-848 8621
F: 0161-877 2584