Boels Rental has acquired the entire share capital of IQ-Pass, a major player in temporary access control management and security for the industry, construction, maritime and offshore projects. IQ-Pass started in 2008 from its branch in Breukelen, and is active in the Benelux countries and Germany.

Makita is expanding the increasingly popular 10.8v range of power tools where the superb machine power performance is coupled with the compact physical size of the machines.

When a premier conference and events venue needed a boom lift to access a high-level stadium roof it hired the premier model from AFI’s fleet – the Genie SX-180.

The first loyalty programme of its kind available to the hire industry. As part of our Rental Expert hire management software and Rental Elite ERP system, this feature allows a business owner to define the percentage of income to reward the customer with and an expiry date to encourage customers to come back soon.

Today’s Queen’s Speech outlined the government’s programme for the next two years in the wake of the general election result and the pathway to Brexit in 2019. There will be no Queen’s Speech next year.

Meet the HAE Technical, Health and Safety Panel!  A group of committed people who meet regularly to address industry best practice, upcoming legislation that will affect industry operations, new products being introduced for the industry, accident awareness and the approval of all the SafeHire Technical Bulletins produced to protect HAE members and their customers!

Activa Contracts has won a sole supply, full outsourcing fleet deal with Winterbotham Darby that also sees it take on a consultancy role to the organisation’s cash allowance drivers potentially resulting in them opting for company cars following the introduction of new tax rules.

Britain’s fleet decision-makers are being urged to make their nominations for the top vehicles, initiatives and companies in the industry.

Nominations have opened for members of ACFO, the UK’s premier fleet decision-makers’ organisation, as well as non-members, to recognise the ‘finest in fleet’ in 2017.

PlosinyRybaceks.r.o., Niftylift’s exclusive dealer for the Czech Republic, has recently supplied an HR17NE and an HR21 Hybrid AWD to Sico in its corporate colours.

The HR17NE is a battery powered 17m working height, narrow aisle boom and the HR21 Hybrid AWD, a 21m working height, all-wheel-drive boom that incorporates Niftylift’s environmentally conscious Hybrid power system.

We recently received feedback from a member suggesting that they would ‘appreciate regular updates on issues that assessors have encountered that all hirers should be aware of’ so we’d like to remind you of the SafeHire Technical Bulletins that are available, to all members, via the website.

Businesses must create a cultural environment around occupational road risk management in which employees take responsibility for their actions and are empowered to make the decision not to drive if they don’t feel safe.

Leading fleet and asset management software company Jaama has appointed Andy Bradley as its product manager.

The strategic role marries getting to grips with industry developments and changes that impact on fleet operations such as initiatives by government agencies with the demands of Jaama customers to ensure that Key2 remains at the cutting-edge of vehicle, driver and workshop management solutions.

Activa Contracts has enhanced its industry-leading ‘Tax Guide for Fleets’ app to include the ability for users to calculate if a cash alternative offered by their employer will increase their tax bill.

Until HAE applied to CITB’s Flexible Fund, approximately 70% of HAE’s 850 members had struggled to find training specific to plant mechanics and fitters.

As a result of receiving funding the sector’s training and qualification needs have been rejuvenated.

Tool hire companies working with small plant have, for the first time, a training route which is:

• specific to their requirements
• delivered on-site
• assessed in the workplace.

A couple who invented a life-saving wrist bands to help return missing dementia patients home are planning to introduce them across the UK and possibly even America.

Two Activa Contracts’ employees have been promoted to area managers after successfully completing the fast-expanding company’s training and development programme.

Plant tracking specialist AMI Group has recently introduced high-tech drones to help locate and recover stolen plant machinery - a move which is already paying off as the company’s drones have been put into action to assist the successful recovery of two stolen machines hidden in a shipping container in a transportation yard in Iver, Buckinghamshire.

SafeHire is a BSI private standard created by and written for the hire industry with the help and guidance of British Standards Institute. It was originally written following a disastrous ‘Which’ report in 2010 that outlined everything negative about the industry.

The fleet industry is set to undergo a “massive revolution” with the introduction of the connected car and the arrival of so-called ‘big data’, while contract hire companies will transform into analytics businesses that lease vehicles.

AFI Resale – the AFI group’s new and used machine sales operation – has gained a number of major contracts in the first quarter of 2017, including a £500,000 order to supply 57 booms and scissor lifts to a trader in Eastern Europe. This success comes after the division achieved a 25% growth in export salesduring 2016.

Plant tracking specialist AMI Group has introduced innovative drone technology to help enhance the company’s recovery efforts even further to locate stolen plant machinery. It is believed that AMI Group is one of the first tracking companies in the UK to introduce the concept of drone technology to help aid the safe recovery of stolen assets.

Occupational road risk management is good business practice, but for too many employers it is a ‘tick box compliance exercise’ without a real focus on reducing costs, according to ICFM.

Seddons Plant & Engineers Ltd has been crowned the top supplier across all of the Plant, Tool, Hire and Event sector after being declared ‘Supplier of the Year’ at Hire Association Europe’s (HAE) Hire Awards of Excellence 2017.

AFI has further extended its range of powered access machine familiarisation videos by producing videos to cover models in its Super-Set large machine fleet.

A trio of Activa Contracts’ employees have become the first at the fast-growing vehicle leasing and fleet management company to successfully complete National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs).

Fleet decision-makers must future proof their vehicle operating decisions as the default fuel choice is no longer diesel, according to Puddy Vehicle Solutions (PVS).

ACFO, the UK’s premier fleet decision-makers’ organisation, has called on HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to publish Advisory Fuel Rates for plug-in cars after providing it with real world mileage reimbursement figures.

Plant tracking specialist AMI Group has been confirmed as the headline sponsor of the Construction Plant-hire Association’s (CPA) Annual Construction Plant Conference 2017 which is taking place on 31^st October.

Rental industry stalwart, Ray Caulfield is celebrating winning the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2017 European Rental Awards.

Richard Haworth – the Manchester based linen supplier – has launched stylish Bistro napkins to complement their already market leading table linen offering. Perfect for casual dining, the napkins are available in three attractive colour stripe options.

Trime UK, the manufacturer and supplier of sustainable site lighting sets have delivered ten of their new X-Eco LED lighting towers to the Watford depot of the independent equipment hire firm, Eveready Hire.

Jaama, the UK’s leading fleet industry asset management software system provider, is to further increase its supply of Key2 into the commercial vehicle sector following business success at the recent Commercial Vehicle Show.

Kumar & Company Limited (“KCL”) has been engaged to assist in the sale of the business and assets of an established North Midlands tool hire company.

Drivers who speed now face much tougher penalties in a bid to crack down on motorists who consistently flout the law.

Leading access rental company Lavendon Group has successfully concluded its two year Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, the Savannah Project, helping raise more than £47,000 for leading conservation charity ZSL (Zoological Society of London).

GAP Hire Solutions, a family business and the UK’s largest independently owned equipment hirer, donated £80,000 to 99 charities in the financial year 2016 / 2017.

AFI has achieved Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) Gold certification for the third consecutive year for its good working practices in the way it operates its machine delivery and service van fleets.

Places are filling up fast for the next prestigious tutor-led ICFM Diploma (Advanced Level) Programme, but some delegate spaces remain available.

Site Equip, leaders in supplying welfare and sanitation to the events and construction industries, have won the prestigious award of Event Industry Product of the Year at the HAE EHA Hire Awards of Excellence for the Shabby Chic Toilet Trailer.

GAP Hire Solutions, the UK’s largest independent equipment hirer, has added Trench Boxes to its fleet of Non-Mechanical Plant.

Morris Site Machinery has won a major industry accolade in the Hire Awards of Excellence 2017 for Best Use of New Media and was highly commended for Website of the Year.

Two of the best known brands in the fleet industry - Auto Windscreens and Michelin - have become the latest companies to sign-up to ICFM’s recently-launched Corporate Investor Programme.

The connected car and the generation of so-called ‘big data’ is set to change the long-established fleet management model, which is why ACFO is turning the spotlight on the issue at its spring seminar.

Hire Station continues to invest in the latest equipment, with the new JCB 8025 ZTS 3 tonne mini digger added to our fleet. By continuing to invest in new equipment, this ensures that you will always receive the best possible tools and equipment for your projects.

Makita’s latest version of the popular 18v cordless drywall screwdriver runs up to an impressive maximum 2500rpm - lower than its predecessor -  but delivers greater driving torque from the innovative Brushless motor. A TEK screwdriver version is now available for the first time from Makita which is sure to appeal to cladding contractors.

John Gill joined HSS Hire Group in 2009 as chief financial officer and took over from Chris Davies as chief executive in September 2015 shortly after the company listed on the London Stock Exchange.

A Wilson Access truck mount made light work of tackling banks of floodlights at the Wakefield Trinity Wildcats rugby stadium.

Trime UK is a Cambridgeshire based manufacturer and supplier of a range of environmentally conscious equipment designed specifically for the UK hire industry.

The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) will come into force in central London from 8th April 2019 and be widened across Greater London in 2020 for heavy vehicles, and up to the North and South Circular roads for cars and vans in 2021.

Datatag has won the Plantworx Security Innovation Award, for the second time, with their innovative new product, MicroCESAR.

Vehicle leasing and fleet management giant Arval has launched a new and innovative pack for drivers.

Included in the driver side door pocket of new vehicle deliveries, the branded bag contains a range of useful, safety essentials picked specifically for drivers to support them in an emergency.

Experienced fleet manager Paul Holmes has given a new meaning to American entrepreneur Victor Kiam’s famous phrase by becoming a director of PeoplePanels, a division of Dawes Highway Safety Ltd.

The Hire Association Europe (HAE) has won a prestigious award in the Commitment to Skills category of the PLANTWORX Innovation Awards for its use of virtual reality and oculus rift technology for Health & Safety training. 

AFI is making noise reduction a key requirement in future purchases ofvehicles that deliver its powered access machines to sites throughout the UK.

With 27 trucks due for replacement within the next 18 months and the option for some noise reduction retrofitting, 57% of the AFI fleet will consist of low noise vehicles by summer 2018.

The government is officially launching its apprenticeship levy today (6 April 2017) as part of the biggest shake-up of skills for a generation.

The levy will require all employers in the UK with an annual wage bill of over £3 million to pay 0.5% of it towards funding apprenticeships.

If you've read our article in Interface On Hire, spring 2017 you will be aware that from 1st April some of our Safety Guidance Leaflets will no longer be available to purchase in pre-printed packs of 50. Instead these products will only be available as digital downloads using our Print on Demand service.

Over 100 HAE EHA members have switched to this online service which not only provides the means to print only the leaflets you need, when you need them, but they also include your own company logo.

The JCB 8025 mini excavator offers true zero tailswing and delivers speed, power and productivity. As well as excellent digging performance which provides impressive tearout forces and high levels of tractive effort.

AAM Group is the new name for Alliance Asset Management with the rebrand reflecting both the comprehensive portfolio of vehicle and funding solutions offered and the organisation’s broad client base ranging from SMEs and large corporate fleets to education establishments, contract hire and leasing companies, rental operators and consumers.

Fleet decision-makers have voted Ogilvie the UK’s top vehicle leasing and fleet management company for service to customers in the 2017 Experteye awards.

GAP Hire Solutions has confirmed a new three-year supply agreement with Wacker Neuson for light compaction equipment.

Leading fleet and asset management software company Jaama has restructured and expanded its customer service department to provide clients with a greater level of support. 

The board of ICFM, the expanding organisation dedicated to advancing the profession of car and light commercial fleet management, has re-elected Paul Hollick as its chairman.

The National Living Wage is to rise to £7.50 an hour from April this year, in line with Chancellor Philip Hammond's Autumn Statement and Spring Budget announcement.

This Friday, Seaward Electronic is offering a free webinar for Electrical Safety Testing in the Hire Industry aimed at anyone involved with the test and inspection of equipment for use in the hire industry. This could be ideal for anyone from the workshop team to depot managers. 

Husqvarna introduces the new Husqvarna K 970 – with semi-automatic belt tensioning system called SmartTension and a magnesium blade guard. Updates have also been made on the Rescue, Ring and Chain counterparts.

The Access Industry Forum (AIF), the forum for eleven of the leading trade associations and federations involved in height safety (including PASMA), has launched a new safety campaign with construction industry safety initiative, Working Well Together – Working Well at Height.

This story starts with a CanTrack client, a leading plant-hirer, reporting a stolen Thwaites 1 tonne site-dumper. The machine, fitted with a CanTrack Asset,was stolen inHammersmith, West London.

The HSE has produced some updated advice on the use of vibration monitoring equipment in response to a significant number of questions that have come through to the HSE’s concerns team.

Jaama is continuing its drive into the plant, equipment and tool hire sector with its industry-leading management software system.

Car salary sacrifice schemes and car or cash allowance programmes continue to have a key role to play within wide-ranging employee benefit packages despite the introduction of new rules from April 6, 2017, the ICFM’s inaugural Masterclass heard.

Activa Contracts has won a sole supply, full outsourcing deal with Hughes, one of the UK’s largest electrical retailers.

vGroup International has expanded its business partnership with fast-growing vehicle funding and fleet management specialist Fleet Alliance to include the supply of commercial vehicle accessories.

This short survey closes on Monday, 3 April, with results to be published in the May issue of IRN.

Morris Site Machinery are pleased to have been shortlisted in two categories for the Hire Awards of Excellence 2017.

The CITB’s National Specialist Accredited Centre awarded its Assessor of the Year award to Mark Priestman, for his practice as an assessor and his contribution to the specialist sector.

Nationwide Platforms has once again retained its position as the world’s largest IPAF provider after training 14,896 delegates in 2016. With IPAF registrations up 17% from 2015, it achieved the highest number of registrations ever recorded by the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF).

Safe driving policies introduced by Hertfordshire Independent Living Service (HILS), which have triggered a 26% fleet insurance premium saving, have seen it become the newest organisation to join the RoadSafe-managed and government-backed Driving for Better Business campaign as a business champion.

Fast-expanding and customer-focused Activa Contracts has won its first industry ‘Oscar’.

Leading fleet and asset management software company Jaama has further underlined its commitment to providing customers with sophisticated cutting-edge solutions with the appointment of a dedicated IT manager.

Morris Site Machinery is set to unveil its most comprehensive range of innovative power generation products at Plantworx on 6^thto 8^th June, from canopied rental and open set petrol generators to the latest lighting tower – the TL90 Ultimate.

Seddons Plant & Engineers Ltd has been shortlisted as one of only three suppliers across the whole of the Plant, Tool and Equipment Hire industry for the prestigious accolade of Supplier of the Year.

After months of hard work, inspHire is proud to introduce its recently launched global website. Cementing inspHire’s position as a leading promoter of hire software globally, with offices in the UK, USA, Netherlands and Australia.

According to the National Cyber Crime Unit, part of the National Crime Agency, cybercrime is something that should be on everybody’s radar, in any organisation, and all businesses need to understand the massive scale of cybercrime.

More efficient and streamlined with greater flexibility, this new version puts more control at the user’s fingertips.

Light commercial vehicle fleets can expect to cut operating costs following the launch by vGroup International of a new polypropylene lining panel set to transform the sector.

Fleets can expect diesel vehicle tax changes - and potentially increases - in the future as the government continues to develop its strategy to improve air quality.

Attention to detail and a straight-forward business approach has helped Ogilvie Fleet win a four-year full outsourcing contract to provide vehicles and a range of services to Hampshire-based Raymond Brown Construction.

A new incident management company is planning to shake up the UK market with its senior management team using their almost 100 years of collective fleet industry knowledge and experience to deliver cost savings and reduced vehicle downtime for businesses.

Jaama is continuing with its growth plans for 2017 creating more new positions within the business to accommodate the ever-growing demand for its products and services.

Fast-growing Fleet Service Great Britain (FSGB) has launched a driver app with a wealth of sophisticated cutting-edge features delivering 24/7 support to employees at the wheel of company vehicles.

Growth in the UK economy picked up through 2016. Employment has reached a record high of 31.8 million people, here's a summary of what was announced in the speech.

PASMA, the international not-for-profit authority for the mobile access tower industry, has announced the launch of the PASMA Safety at Height Advisory Panel – a new initiative designed to promote height safety and the safe use of mobile access towers.

Plant tracking specialist AMI Group has been shortlisted as one of the leading suppliers to the plant hire industry.

Following fundraising throughout 2016, AFI has now presented a cheque for £5,000 to the NSPCC.

Ambit is the first company to sign-up to ICFM’s newly-launched Corporate Investor Programme designed to further raise the standards of fleet industry professionals and overcome a skills and knowledge shortage inside many employers.

Jaama, the UK’s leading fleet industry asset management software system provider, will be showcasing new functionality introduced to its multi award-winning web-based vehicle, driver and workshop management solution Key2 at this year’s Commercial Vehicle Show.

GAP Hire Solutions today announced the winners of their Under 16 Sports Club Sponsorship Competition. The seven winners selected from across the UK are...

Hire Association Europe and Event Hire Association (HAE EHA) have announced the entries shortlisted for their prestigious 2017 Hire Awards of Excellence.

With an exciting new venue, fresh re-brand, dynamic theme and renewed focus, the Trade Fair & Convention 2017, organised by the Hire Association Europe (HAE) and Event Hire Association (EHA), is promising to be the event’s most ambitious outing to date.

PANIU are actively targeting organised criminal networks and their assets in order to make theft of plant and agricultural equipment as unattractive as possible.

PANIU regularly work in partnership with hire companies and we advise on crime prevention and awareness.

Hire Association Europe and Event Hire Association (HAE EHA) today announced the entries shortlisted for its prestigious 2017 Hire Awards of Excellence, to be held at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane on Saturday 22^nd April 2017.

Fast-growing, award-winning fleet consultancy and advisory service Puddy Vehicle Solutions (PVS) continues to expand with the appointment of Kelly Podbury as business manager.

A Wilson Access track mount played a leading role at a historic concert hall and music venue – by helping contractors to inspect an auditorium ceiling.

MCS experienced a lot of interest in its MCS-rm hire management software application at the Executive Hire Show 2017. MCS used the show to launch its new embedded CRM system and new CRM Mobile app.

We have been made aware that there are spurious emails currently being sent out by an unknown third party which have been made to look like they have been sent by ourselves.  They are using our company logo and have been mocked up to look like one of our chasing emails.

GAP Event Services, a division of the equipment hirer GAP Hire Solutions, picked up a coveted Festival Supplier Award on 28th January at The Hurlingham Club, London. The Best Fencing / Hoarding award was presented to GAP’s Events team for their work at last summer’s V Festival.

AFI is further expanding its Super-Set fleet of large machines by purchasing two Genie SX-180s – Genie’s highest reaching self-propelled boom lift and one of the world’s largest.

This morning, 9^th February 2017, Hire Association Europe (HAE) has delivered a series of workshops and presentations as part of its SafeHire Information Zone, held within the Ricoh Arena’s Jaguar Suite, on the second day of the Executive Hire Show 2017.

A PETERLEE standards expert has been chosen to join a European trade association panel responsible for the safety of hired industrial equipment.

A new web-based company car or cash allowance calculator has been launched by Activa Contracts giving employers and employees in-depth analysis on the critical costs at the click of a button thereby simplifying the decision-making process.

It is with deep sadness that we announce long-term supporter of Hire Association Europe and our very dear friend, Jack Haymer, passed away in the early hours of Tuesday 7^th February 2017 aged 80

Since the launch of our Print-on-Demand service in 2013 over 100 members, large and small, have adopted the new service and benefitted from the easy to order process.

The new Makita EB7660TH back-pack blower has increased air flow and air speed, with the maximum power output speed from the innovative Makita MM4 75.6cc 4-stroke engine increased to 7,200rpm. Maximum air flow volume is raised to 20m³/min and the maximum air speed velocity increased to 92m/s.

With just a few days until the Executive Hire Show 2017 returns to the Ricoh Arena, Hire Association Europe (HAE) is promising a bigger, better and unmissable presence at the national exhibition for the tools, equipment and plant hire industry, than ever before.

In a further move that highlights AFI’s commitment to sustained growth, the company has appointed former Speedy Hire Managing Director David Graham as a Director.

AFI has extended its range of powered access machine familiarisation videos by producing videos to cover self drive truck and track mounts.The new videos will help operators familiarise themselves...

Brand new portable air-conditioner, the ACT-7, set to be Executive Hire Show show-piece for Calorex and Dantherm.

As from 2019, the STIHL Group will market the entire product line of garden tool manufacturer VIKING exclusively under the STIHL brand name.

MCS, the leading hire software expert, is to launchan embedded Customer Relationship Management (CRM)solution within leading MCS-rmhire management system at the Executive Hire Show 2017.

Makita continues to expand, refine and finesse the market leading 18v Lithium-Ion powered power tool range that has driven the brand to market leadership.

The UK access equipment market was estimated to have grown by 7% in 2015, followed by further growth of 4% in 2016, according to a new report released by AMA Research.

Dromad Hire is the first company in Ireland to add the new Hinowa 15m boom lift to its hire fleet.

The new Makita DUC353Z Twin 18v Brushless motor chainsaw sets new standards for cordless chainsaws and matches the logging performance of similar size petrol powered saws.

ACFO, the UK’s premier fleet decision-makers’ organisation, is to host an industry summit from which its aims to provide HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) with data potentially leading to the publication of Advisory Fuel Rates for plug-in cars.

To uphold GAP Hire Solutions’ long-standing commitment to sustainable business practices, the company has relaunched their Green Action Plan.

STIHL is starting 2017 with a bang, hosting eight STIHL & VIKING dealer roadshows across Great Britainfrom 21^stFebruary – 16^thMarch.

As nominations open for this year’s Hire Awards of Excellence, organiser Hire Association Europe Event Hire Association (HAE EHA) has announced the awards has grown with two additional categories for 2017 and a new venue to host the growing number of guests.

The director of a plant hire firm who took the decision not to replace the broken boom on a MEWP that later failed, killing worker Gary Currie, was last week jailed for two years.

ACFO, the UK’s premier fleet decision-makers’ organisation, has joined the new global Fleet Consortium Network to promote operating best practice internationally.

Site Equip, leaders in supplying welfare and sanitation to the events and construction industries, have promoted Amy Gilbert to Director with immediate effect.

Morris Site Machinery will spotlight the latest innovations in power, lighting and welding at the 2017 Executive Hire Show to help hirers grow their business and harness the full potential of their machines.

In the wake of its £4.5million sales success overseas in 2016, Morris Site Machinery is set to extend its footprint in Europe through its announcement that EuroGate International will be representing the SMC Light and Power brands...

From 18 – 19 January 2017,STIHL will be presenting LAMMA visitors with a raft ofbrand new, cutting-edge products to help busy farming professionals complete their everyday tasks easier.

UK rental company A-Plant has announced it has successfully retained the SafeHire quality mark certification.

GAP Group Ltd has announced the purchase of 130 new X ECO Lighting Towers from Trime formerly allocated to Hewden.

Powered access manufacturer Niftylift has been turning heads with its very unique take on the traditional Christmas tree this season.

2017 will mark the 45^th anniversary of the establishment of the UK sales, training and distribution centre for global power tool manufacturer Makita Corporation.

Members should note the Anti-Terrorist Hotline incident reporting number, 0800 789 321, which can be used by anyone who sees anything suspicious.

AFI has been awardedone star accreditationas a great company to work for as part of the prestigious Best Companies accreditation scheme.

Formerly a Hewden depot, the site in Malling Brooks Industrial Estate will remain open after being acquired by the GAP Group. The news follows last month’s announcement that Hewden had fallen into administration.

Fellowship Afloat Charitable Trust (FACT) is an Essex coast-based charity that provides adventure and activities to thousands of children aboard a 1954 converted light vessel – Trinity House and the trust are indebted to a Calorex dehumidifier that has been servicing their ship for the past 27-years.

AP Hire Solutions has been awarded with the “Peter Capel” Cup and Corporate Supporter certificate to recognise their substantial fundraising contribution to the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity.

A businessman was left baffled when police sent two officers to investigate his "sexy santas" - but failed to show up for a £12,000 burglary.

STAFF at family-run firm Astley Hire are doing their bit to lift spirits this Christmas after packing more than 100 shoeboxes with gifts for homeless people in Manchester.

With 2016 drawing to a close, GAP Group has enjoyed a record year with Kubota as their relationship continues to grow from strength to strength. By the end of this year, the UK’s leading independent equipment hirer will have taken in excess of 900 machines ranging in size from 0.8 tonne to 8.0 tonne.

A top sales representative who deals in industrial machinery for family-run Leigh firm Astley Hire, is enjoying success with her fun-loving alter ego - as a stand up comedian.

Drivers who tow trailers are being urged to carry out basic safety checks following the tragic death of 3-year-old Freddie Hussey. 

Some of the largest powered access machines from the AFI fleet were hired by contractors carrying out major remedial work to a coal conveyor at Cottam Power Station in Nottinghamshire.

Nationwide Platforms, the UK’s largest powered access rental company, has placed an order for 75 highly-specified delivery vehicles which have been specifically designed for the efficient and safe transportation of its full range of scissor lifts, boom lifts and low level access platforms.

In recognition of a supplier relationship with Speedy that has spanned almost 40 years, Seddons Plant & Engineers Ltd has been awarded a Special Relationship Award at the Speedy Expo, Speedy’s annual event for suppliers, clients and Speedy decision makers,which this year was hostedat the new Exhibition Centre Liverpool.

The STIHL Treetop Walkway has been awarded top gong in the Commercial and Leisure category of the 2016 Wood Awards. The 45^th edition of the awards were held at the Carpenters Hall in London, Wednesday 23^rd November, where the country’s most renowned lumber landmarks took the limelight.

Morris Site Machinery will spotlight the latest innovations in power, lighting and welding at the 2017 Executive Hire Show to help hirers grow their business and harness the full potential of their machines.

AFI is making substantial investments in the fleet of vehicles that deliver its powered access machines to sites throughout the UK. The company recently purchased 18 new delivery vehicles and a further 27 will join the fleet during the next 18 months.

Penny Mordaunt MP, Minister of State for Disabled People, Health and Work, Department for Work and Pensions, receives BSIF’s new report on Tackling Work Related Respiratory Illnesses.

A luxury residential swimming pool, which is efficiently heated by a Calorex heat pump, has taken the top spot at this year’s UK Pool & Spa Awards.

Jaama has rebranded its plant, equipment and tool hire management software and simultaneously introduced a range of sophisticated new features to boost business and user efficiencies.

We are pleased and excited to announce that Hire Station have been awarded full member status of The Lifting Equipment and Engineers Association (LEEA).

ICFM has launched a new Corporate Investor Programme designed to further raise the standards of fleet industry professionals and overcome a skills and knowledge shortage inside many employers.

vGroup International is calling on fleets across Britain to join its own staff, including top racing driver James Nash, in backing Road Safety Week and ‘make the pledge’ to drive safely.

The latest version of SafeHire, which is currently being adopted by all members before the end of 2017, was originally developed and written in 2010. As most members will understand there has been legislative changes over that period...

A well respected and popular independent hirer and founder member of Hire Association Europe, has died in the early hours of Friday 11^thNovember after a long and brave battle with cancer. 

2016 was a record year for apprentice recruitment at AFI – 28 young people began their careers with the company, working in roles throughout the business. The new record beat the previous high set by AFI in 2015 when it recruited 26 apprentices.

Wilson Access has taken delivery of a second Palfinger P570 truck mount and is planning to invest a further £2 million in its truck and track mount fleet during 2017.

The UK’s largest independent equipment hirer, GAP Hire Solutions, has launched its new and improved catalogue for 2017.

AFI has been shortlisted for two awards in a prestigious award scheme run by the Institute of Customer Service (ICS) to recognise organisations that have implemented successful customer service strategies.

The changing face of fleet management was clearly visible at the prestigious 2016 ACFO Awards with three of the seven awards recognising plug-in cars.

Peter Stockton, Operations Director of construction plant tracking specialists AMI Group, has been officially appointed as a Board Member of Hire Association Europe (HAE), the industry-leading trade association for the plant and tool hire sector.

A fast growing independent hire business which competes with bigger national companies and requires reliable, quality equipment to maintain a competitive edge looks for the same commitment from its suppliers.

The Probst Scissor grab SG range must be considered the bench mark for block grabs. To help lift un-palletised packs of blocks/bricks/kerbs etc. on sites up and down the country. 

The 20% tax rate on building repairs has long been a thorn in the side of construction companies as it makes them uncompetitive against sole traders operating below the VAT threshold or cash-in-hand cowboys that often damage the reputation of the industry.

Mud soaked trails, impossibly steep inclines, freezing cold starts, John Deere Gators have proved themselves year after year as go-anywhere, dependable and reliable work vehicles.

Builders and landscapers working throughout the London city region are set to benefit from quick and easy access to mini-excavators thanks to a new partnership between tool and equipment hire specialists HSS Hire Group (“HSS Hire”) and construction equipment experts Kubota.

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are unlikely to prove to be a cost-effective choice for fleets unless the importance of promoting a ‘green’ image overrides the increased cost of operation.

A 3 Tonne Kubota Excavator stolen from a construction site in Steeple, Southminster, has been successfully recovered some 20 miles away in Chelmsford thanks to the machine being protected with an AMI tracking device.

AFI has taken further steps to ensure that its hire fleet is one of the most modern and versatile in the UK by purchasing 12 additional large MEWPS in a £2million investment. During the past three years the company has invested over £50 million in its fleet.

Datatag ID Limited, the leading provider of security marking technology for the official CESAR Scheme, supported a two-day rural crime initiative in Northampton on 25^th& 26^th October.

Government should reveal company car benefit-in-kind tax rates on ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEVs) until 2028/29 to enable long-term fleet planning, while also recognising vehicle lifecycles and product availability, according to ACFO.

Demand for Jaama’s industry-leading asset and driver management software is rocketing in the UK and internationally with revenues up 18% year-on-year.

Robert Halfon, minister of state for apprenticeships and skills, has signed up Paul Morrell to help determine the future shape of industrial training boards.

To meet increased demand for secure storage facilities, A-Plant’s Accommodation Division has enhanced its fleet of equipment by purchasing over 500 storage units manufactured by Containex.

A record number of delegates attended this year’s Working at Height Best Practice Forum, sharing their experiences and thoughts with like-minded professionals to help advance the safe operation of powered access, shape best practice and improve safety standards.

Holidaymakers at a Spanish hotel resort are enjoying improved swimming conditions in the hotel’s indoor pool following the installation of a Calorex environmental control system.

Business procurement is proving hugely influential in driving commercial vehicle fleets to place unprecedented levels of focus on at-work road safety, and some fleet decision-makers believe that spotlight should be extended to include company cars and motorcycles.

Fleets across the UK are being urged to equip their drivers with special service kits enabling them to easily check tyre pressure, tread and condition as new figures highlight the potentially fatal risk of cars and commercial vehicles fitted with illegal tyres.

Fleet consultancy and advisory service Puddy Vehicle Solutions (PVS) won the New Business of the Year title in the 2016 Somerset Business Awards after identifying how clients could make savings totalling more than £64 million.

The government has been warned that proposed cash-generating changes to salary sacrifice car schemes will have numerous “unintended consequences” notably hitting its own calls for fleets to operate low-emission vehicles.

Mather Stuart Power Solutions has made a two million-pound plus investment in enhancing its hire fleet of generators, ensuring the company offers some of the most efficient, innovative and quietest power generation units currently available on the market.

Makita has introduced two new 10mm battery powered staplers, which replace existing models, offering a host of advanced technical features.

From 2 – 3 November 2016,STIHL will be presentingSaltex visitors with its premium groundscare and professional products, including the much anticipated BR 700 blower and 7 series VIKING lawn mowers.

A Wilson Access truck mount and its operator faced a water challenge when working on Northampton Saints Rugby Club’s South Stand.

Whittle Programmed Maintenance had hired a 57m Palfinger P570 for a three week contract to clean cladding and structural supports at the South Stand.

The ever-expanding customer base of industry-leading asset and driver management software specialist Jaama has triggered the recruitment of two additional support analysts.

Taking place on 19^th – 20^th October, the popular show attracts almost 4500 event professionals and is the perfect showcase for EHA’s wide ranging bespoke products and services for event hirers and suppliers.

HAE member, Crestmoor Group, is about to open a new Plant and Tool Hire depot near its head office address in Wincanton.

Construction plant tracking specialist AMI Group has been applauded for its technological innovation by being shortlisted for the ‘Best Use of Technology’ award at the Nectar Small Business Awards 2016.

A-Plant’s Rapid Climate Control division has vastly expanded its fleet of heating equipment by placing a seven hundred and fifty thousand-pound order with Thermobile for the latest industrial indirect fired heaters.

The Boels-Dolmans Cycling Team has made a great start to this year’s Cycling World Championships in Qatar. In the stifling heat of Doha yesterday, the international women’s cycling team won the gold medal in the Team Time Trial.

Eve, one of the UK’s leading suppliers to the events industry, is celebrating after being crowned the ‘Events Services Supplier of the Year’ for Scotland.

Organised by the Hire Association Europe and Event Hire Association (HAE EHA), the Hire Convention returned to Loughborough’s Holywell Park on 21st – 22nd September, for its third outing. Boasting an impressive conference programme, with highly auspicious speakers from across the sector and leading players exhibiting, delegates were able to learn from, network and engage with many of the hire industry’s key players. Feedback, post-event has been incredibly positive from all those involved. 

That is the view of a number of the property professionals who were contacted by Development Finance Today regarding the outlook for SME housebuilders post-Brexit.

Construction plant tracking and recovery specialist AMI Group has announced major expansion plans which will further enhance the company’s development and design capabilities to provide innovative technological solutions in-house.

Jeremy joined the Group at the beginning of 2014 and has overseen a number of operational and commercial improvement programmes, strengthening Nationwide Platforms’s market position and delivering increased revenues and profitability during his time with the Group.

Nigel Cann has been working in nuclear power for more than 30 years, starting as an apprentice technician, later running Hinkley Point B power station in Somerset. For the last five years he has been helping EDF get ready to build Hinkley Point C.

Dust control is a health protection priority in all commercial undertakings, especially in construction with many related trade activities such as woodworking, concrete production, decoration and installation fixing.

Eve has invested in new modular trench crossings that provide customers with a system that can be rapidly deployed across any terrain.

Dromad Hire chooses Snorkel after a deal was concluded with Snorkel UK at vertical days 2016

The Dundalk-based company has taken delivery of a range of battery scissor lifts from Snorkel UK  – Ten units in total.

A-Plant has opened a new Lifting and Tool store on Batista Road, Burton-on-Trent, offering products and services from its rapidly expanding Tool Hire Express and FLG Services divisions.

Dundalk based company Dromad Hire adds two new additional support vans supplied by local Peugeot dealer Lynn motors.

A Yorkshire community which was devastated by severe floods is proactively fighting back against the elements with an order of specialist water pumps from Morris Site Machinery.

IPS Ireland, the Access Parts Specialists welcomes Paul McWilliams to their parts sales team. Paul will take up his new role immediately and will be a key figure in supporting both new and existing accounts.

There is a phishing email currently in circulation that claims to be from the City of London Police. The departments that it claims to represent include the ‘Fraud Intelligence Unit’ and the ‘National Fraud Intelligence Bureau’.

Following a comprehensive review of the Hinkley Point C project, and a revised agreement with EDF, the Government has decided to proceed with the first new nuclear power station for a generation.

The Police Service of Scotland is investigating a scheme involving several companies which have been set up for the purposes of committing fraud. The company identities are used to obtain goods on credit including plant equipment, high value cars, vans, bulk fuel containers, fuel cards, portakabins and shipping containers. The goods are thereafter stolen.

The building services engineering sector - which makes up 40 per cent of the UK’s construction and maintenance industry - believes it will successfully weather the outcome of Brexit over the next few years.

The official CESAR Scheme passed another landmark as the 225,000^thsystem was fitted to a machine belonging to the popular BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson.

Leading light and power supplier Morris Site Machinery will focus on products that open up A World of Possibilities at the 2016 Showman’s Show.

Dromad Hire takes delivery two new Skyjack 4740 battery scissor lifts, which were launched earlier in the year at Vertikal Days.

A HAE EHA member based in the South West has been in touch to report a story relating to card payment fraud, as a warning to other members.

AFI has gained Achilles UVDB (Utilities Vendor Database) accreditation, enabling them to join the biggest utilities supplier online management community in the UK.

A Mini Digger stolen from Scunthorpe General Hospital has been successfully found thanks to the installation of a state-of-the-art tracking device from AMI Group.

GT Trax, the Cambridgeshire based specialist hirer of temporary roadways and walkways, have taken delivery of a Multi-One 10.8 articulated loader.

A new welder with some serious bite will be launched by leading Midlands manufacturer, Morris Site Machinery at the 2016 Hire Convention.

Dundalk based company IPS Ireland also known as the ‘access parts specialists’ have increased their vehiclefleet with the addition of a new parts van.

Members are advised to be aware of fraudulent activity relating to Hodgson Tool Hire Ltd.

In the week commencing 29 August 2016 a HAE member based in the East Midlands was contacted by a lady calling herself “Mandy Berry” claiming to be from Hodgson Tool Hire Ltd., enquiring about a quantity of wet and dry Vacuum cleaners.

AMI Group was invited to appear after being identified as one of the companies spearheading the fight against plant theft and at the forefront of the recovery process.

It has been officially confirmed that equipment supplied by Seddons Plant & Engineers Ltd will be used to help try and smash the world land speed record by the target date of October 2017, 20 years after the existing world record of 763mph was set.

MasterCard have announced that they're introducing a new series of BINs that begin with a 2.

Following the success of last year’s Hire Convention, it is set to return to Loughborough’s Holywell Park from 21st – 22nd September 2016. Organised by Hire Association Europe and Event Hire Association (HAE EHA) it will focus on the important issues currently facing the Hire industry, with an increase in delegates and exhibitors expected. 

The government has just published proposals for a new funding model for apprenticeships and further details on the apprenticeship levy.

The capabilities of a Wilson Access track mount were put to the test to overcome a number of challenges facing contractors at the Clifton Observatory in Bristol.

The first recruit has joined a graduate recruitment and training programme established by Jaama, the UK’s leading fleet and asset management software supplier.

The Hire Association Europe (HAE) and Event Hire Association (EHA) has today announced that they will be introducing the first ever ILM Level Five programme in Leadership and Management for the Hire Industry.

The Department for the Economy (DfE) has today launched a Call for Evidence on the refocus of the Northern Ireland Economic Strategy (NIES). The comments received in response to this call for evidence document will inform the development of the refocus of the Executive’s Economic Strategy.

Ever-increasing demand from vehicle rental and leasing companies, fleet operators and the plant hire industry for Jaama’s cutting-edge software solutions continues to fuel the recruitment of additional staff.

The London Underground, part of Transport for London, has joined the Ladder Association, the trade body representing the ladder industry in the UK and Ireland.

Contractors working at Derby County FC’s Pride Park Stadium hired some of the largest boom lifts in the AFI fleet for apainting contract at the Championship club.

HSE is reviewing the requirements in health and safety legislation for the inspection or thorough examination of work plant and equipment.

Leading Midlands manufacturer, Morris Site Machinery is flying the flag for Britain overseas having secured over £3.5 million worth of international orders in one month as it further strengthens its ambitions and growth into global markets.

With just two months until the Hire Convention 2016 opens its doors, organiser Hire Association Europe (HAE) and Event Hire Association (EHA) has announced the speaker line-up for day one.

Sophisticated web-based fleet management software systems significantly reduce the amount of time company decision-makers spend on administration tasks relating to vehicles and their drivers.

AFI can now deliver powered access machines direct to contractors working at Gatwick Airport after being granted airside approval by the airport.

Following a review of the CITB NI Tier 1 grant scheme during the 2015/16 year, CITB NI will be implementing some changes to the grants that they make available for registered employers. These changes will take effect from 01 September 2016.

There is a vacancy within HAE Member company County Hire, for an adaptable, outgoing person to work as part of a small friendly team committed to providing an effective, personal service to Trade and D.I.Y. customers.

Hire Association Europe and Event Hire Association (HAE EHA) has this month announced the official launch of its SafeHire Certification.

This month HAE EHA is launching the new quarterly Hire Barometer survey to help measure the pulse of the sector.

Makita has carried out a fundamental redesign of the drive mechanism of the cordless reciprocating saws by aligning the drive crank and con-rod with the motor shaft and blade holder. This new layout delivers greater stroke performance and reduces vibration in operation.

Dromad Hire takes delivery of multiple Skyjack machines. The delivery includes a range of battery scissor lifts ranging from 19ft to 39ft along with a rough terrain 9250 diesel scissor, as part of their ongoing investment plan throughout 2016.

Next April will see the introduction of the Government’s new Apprenticeship Levy (AL). Just under 600 companies (at a group level) will have to pay the AL as well as the CITB Levy.

Hillhead Exhibition Buxton, 28^th June. GAP Hire Solutions, the UK's leading independent hirer, has today announced its adoption of the CanTrack Asset telematics solution for use on a wide range of plant and machinery.

Calorex has underpinned its position as a leading problem solver in the field of commercial drying and dehumidification, following the expansion of its portable drying range.

These consist of five, two-day sessions, with an additional third day at the start of the course to help learners understand how to write and reference coursework.

Wilson Access tracked mounted access platforms were hired by contractors working on one of the most thrill-seeking theme park rides at Flamingo Land in North Yorkshire.

Makita introduces six new heavy duty mains angle grinders in 110v and 240v formats each with a powerful 2,000w motor; three machines have 180mm diameter wheels and three have 230mm wheels.

PAL Hire have announced their latest initiative to engage the workforce at their headquarters in Cheadle Hulme.

The event and site set-up specialist have decided to give power to their employees by forming a team, named PETE; PAL’s Engagement Team of Employees.

HSS Hire Group plc (“HSS Hire”), the leading national supplier of tool, equipment and related services in the UK and Ireland, has opened its largest ever customer distribution centre in Wales, creating up to 65 new jobs over the next three years. 

Dromad Hire chooses Snorkel after a deal was concluded with Snorkel UK at vertical days 2016. The Dundalk-based company has taken delivery of two Snorkel AB38E machines.

Dundalk based company Dromad Hire recently invested in a specialised purpose built truck from local Scania dealer Granco Ltd. The new truck which was designed and built especially/specifically for the company will improve the nationwide distribution of plant and powered access equipment. 

Ashtead Plant Hire Company Limited (‘A-Plant’), part of FTSE 100 company Ashtead Group plc, and Lion Trackhire Limited (‘Lion Trackhire’) have signed a definitive agreement with Lion Trackhire’s shareholders Carl Springthorpe and Dale Robinson to acquire Lion Trackhire, a temporary access and flooring solution provider.

The Health & Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI) has agreed to provide simple information to small/domestic clients and developers to address any NI specific issues in relation to the up and coming Construction (Design & Management) (CDM) Regulations (NI) 2016.

Merger Results in One of the Largest Hire Software Companies Worldwide

Today, US-based Point of Rental, Inc., announced the acquisition of UK-based Syrinx by Higher Concept Software, merging two industry leaders in rental management software. Point of Rental currently serves over 2700 customer locations in more than 33 countries, but with the addition of Syrinx’s 2000 customers in more than 10 countries, this merger makes Point of Rental one of the largest rental software providers in the world.

At the beginning of each new financial year, there are changes made to taxes. These can have a huge impact on companies, sometimes introducing measures that will benefit a business, and some that require a period of intense planning to ensure minimal damage to a company. This year, the Budget had some unexpected announcements for businesses. According to Chancellor George Osborne, this year's tax reforms would be a “Budget for small business”.

Impacts to the Rental and Construction Industries

I was sitting in a round table discussion about big data at the European Rental Association convention in Stockholm earlier this month. The topic on the table was big data, how it can be effectively used within the rental industry to deliver benefit to both the rental business and rental customers. The discussion was fascinating, not least because 2 main themes developed even before the topic was really addressed.

Leading site machinery distributor and manufacturer Morris Site Machinery has recruited a new team member for its Parts and Servicing Depot in Aylesford as demand for its services grows.

Despite torrential rain and the attraction of the 2016 UEFA European Football Championship, Jaama is confident that discussions held with stand visitors will trigger an increase in sales of its industry-leading Key2 Hire Management software for plant and vehicle assets.

Makita, Britain’s number one professional power tool manufacturer, is targeting the commercial cleaning industry with two new vacuum cleaning machines which join the extensive range of mains and cordless dust extraction units, cordless vacuum cleaners and air blowers suitable for a wide range of industries from construction to grounds care and property maintenance.

The Event Hire Association (EHA) has launched anew website that will deliver their members a host of new benefits. The single page solution boasts easier navigation and increased functionality, improving the user experienceand allowing them to take full advantage of the association’s substantial portfolio of products and services for eventhirers and suppliers.

The Hire Association Europe (HAE) has launched anew website that will deliver their members a host of new benefits. The single page solution boasts easier navigation and increased functionality, improving the user experienceand allowing them to take full advantage of the association’s substantial portfolio of products and services for hirers and suppliers.

Saturday the 25^th of June was Armed Forces Day and to show our support for these brave men and women, members of staff at Niftylift’s Milton Keynes and Hoyland sites gathered together to #SaluteOurForces.

Following months of development work and consultation with customers, equipment tracking specialist AMI Group has launched a vastly enhanced version of the company’s AMI Nexis web-based software portal which is used in conjunction with the company’s tracking devices.

A new beginning for the hire industry starts here and now the referendum is over we can move forward.  Graham Arundell, Managing Director, HAE EHA had this to say

Increasing the profitability of your company can be achieved in a couple of ways, whether it’s by building your sales or reducing running costs. Profit is the ultimate goal of all businesses and should be carefully monitored.

As we awake to the news that the UK has voted to leave the EU, the UK construction industry must see beyond the uncertainty and embrace both the change and new opportunities that will arise. UK Construction Week's Event Director, Nathan Garnett comments on behalf of Media 10.

Seddons Plant & Engineers Ltd has launched a new Parts and Accessories Catalogue featuring hundreds of replacement parts for Honda engines, construction equipment such as the Stihl TS410 cut-off saw and Taskman Pressure Washers, as well as workshop consumables.

An alert has been sent from Marsh Plant Hire Limited in Havant, Hampshire, regarding a fraud perpetrated by Star Finance.

Young Sea Cadets at the Derwenthaugh Boat Station are enjoying the benefits of dry buoyancy clothing and equipment for training sessions, thanks to a specialist Calorex dehumidifier.

Equipment tracking specialist AMI Group has been named ‘Best for After-Theft Recovery Technology and Recognised Leaders in Plant Security Systems - UK’ as part of the esteemed 2016 Technology Innovator Awards.

Leading fleet management software supplier Jaama has strengthened its customer support team with the appointment of a further two support analysts.

Seddons Plant & Engineers Ltd teamed up with Myerscough College to enable the college’s arboriculture staff and students to tree climb the equivalent of the height of Mount Everest to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

The largest truck mount in the Wilson Access fleet was signed up for Reading FC’s Madejski Stadium to help with the installation of a new state-of-the art video screen.

Hire Association Europe (HAE) and Event Hire Association (EHA) has today announced that they are finalists in theprestigious Trade Association Forum’s(TAF) ‘Best Practice Awards 2016’. HAE EHA has been shortlistedin the ‘Conference of the Year’category, for the successful delivery of their Hire Convention in September 2015.

Comprised of a mixture of Lithium-Ion battery and bi-fuel powered units from Hinowa’s Performance IIIS series, the order includes a number of 14 metre Goldlift 14.70s, 17 metre Lightlift 17.75s, 20 metre Lightlift 20.10s and 26 metre Lightlift 26.14s. All units offer excellent working envelopes as well as impressive up and over capabilities and platform capacities.

Leading fleet and asset management software company Jaama has appointed Alex Roach as its new customer services manager.

Implementing change and innovation in work at height

THE Access Industry Forum (AIF), the forum for nine of the leading trade associations and federations involved in work at height, has announced details of its first national, one-day conference.

A 17% increase in its international sales during the past two years has led to AFI achieving a placing in the 2016 Sunday Times HSBC International Track 200 league table.

Important news and updated on credit fraud and equipment theft, from HAE EHA partner Top Service.

A review of stolen plant machinery recoveries made by equipment tracking specialist AMI Group has revealed that thieves appear to be specifically targeting rollers for theft.

AFI has launched a range of videos that are set to revolutionise the way MEWP operators familiarise themselves with the specific machines they will be using.

The Government’s new Apprenticeships Levy (AL) kicks in next April, and all companies with a payroll over £3m will need to pay it at 0.5% on their paybill above that figure.

Jaama is targeting further adoption of its popular and industry-leading Key2 Hire Management software system by exhibiting at this year’s Vertikal Days show.

Peak visitor numbers through the doors of HIRE16 – the only hire industry exhibition in Australia – generated industry wide interest in new technology, new products and new equipment for the hire industry across the indoor and outdoor exhibition.

It was customer focus and attention to key performance indicators (KPI) topped by strong corporate and fleet identity that won Alfasi Hire top honours as Rental Company of the Year at this year’s Hire Industry Excellence Awards.

Makita donated generators to the Cumbrian flood relief operations to help overcome power loss in this rain devastated area last December.

As part of the AFI group of companies’ support for the NSPCC – their chosen charity for 2016 – the Wilson Access truck and track mount operation is donating £10 for every hire of a 57m truck mount carrying the NSPCC logo.

Jaama is targeting further adoption of its popular and industry-leading Key2 Hire Management software system by exhibiting at this year’s Vertikal Days show.

We would be interested to hear from any subscribers who have recently been approached by or are currently dealing with the following subjects...

A set of four specialist Calorex heat pumps are efficiently maintaining optimum water temperatures at a new waterpark in Poland.

The water attraction, which opened in Ruda alaska last summer, features a 312m² swimming pool and an 840m² recreational pool, which are both heated by Calorex Pro-Pac heat pumps.

Commercial vehicle fleet operators are seeking to drive greater efficiency and compliance by introducing cutting-edge asset management software systems, according to leading provider Jaama.

Lavendon Group today announced the appointment of Wayne Smith to the position of Corporate Development Director.

UK’s largest powered access specialist Nationwide Platforms, part of the Lavendon Group, was named ‘Plant, Tool & Equipment Hire Company of the Year’ at the Hire Awards of Excellence, while its latest intelligent secondary guarding system, SkySiren® PCS™, was also awarded ‘Construction Industry Product of the Year’.

Nationwide Platforms, the UK’s market leader in powered access, has been awarded the RoSPA Gold accolade for the seventh consecutive year after once again demonstrating outstanding standards in occupational safety and health.

AFI is investing more than USD 16.3 million in its Access Rental Gulf business in a move that signals a major expansion of its operations in the Middle East.

Students from Coleg Cambria have been crowned the best young welders in Britain for the third time at the sensational final of the national live welding competition, Weld Off 2016.

Important information on bad debtors and stolen equipment from HAE EHA Credit partner Top Service.

AFI employees recently raised over £3,100 for the British Heart Foundation by supporting the organisation’s ‘Beat It Day’ initiative.

Niftylift recently appointed Forklift Oü, with its head office based at Jänesselja 18, Sauga, Pärnumaa 85008, Eesti, as their Estonian dealer.

AFI Director and IPAF Deputy President Nick Selley was one of the first people in the UK to complete a new IPAF e-Learning operator training programme which has now been launched in the UK, following the enhanced programme’s introduction in the US and Canada last year.

Irish Rental Company Dromad Hire has recently been recognised as one of the top Hire Companies in Europe at the Hire Awards of Excellence.

AJC Trailers, the Luton based manufacturer of the EasyCabin range of mobile and static welfare units, have launched a new self-contained mobile workshop and equipment storage unit. Entitled the Easy ToolStore, this brand new product is designed to provide a safe and secure workshop and storage facility ideally suited for working on construction sites, civil engineering, landscaping projects and trackside.

Eve, the UK’s leading supplier of temporary access systems, has expanded its footprint in the south by increasing the equipment storage capacity of its flagship Service Centre in Wimbledon and its satellite facility in Thurrock, East London.

inspHire who is known among hire businesses worldwide for providing leading hire management software and unrivalled support, have been announced as winner of the HAE EHA Supplier of the Year Award 2016!

AFI has gained a Gold award in the RoSPA Occupational Health and Safety Awards for the second consecutive year. The 2016 Gold award will be presented at a ceremony on 14 July at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole Hotel.

Future Hirers is proving its worth in building relationships between potential employees, hire employers and job centre advisers. As part of this initiative, HAE EHA and Alide Hire Services Ltd recently held an Open Day in Bristol.

It has been announced that the 2016 STIHL TIMBERSPORTS British Championship will be held at the brand new BBC Countryfile Live, 4^th – 7^th August at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire.

Earlier this week a fraudster masquerading as machinery and engine wholesaler Gear GB made off with a quantity of generators valued at over £30,000.

The Preparation Group, specialists in surface preparation, removal and finishing, has added a new machine to the STG range, the STG400.

AS PART of its ongoing commitment to improving safety and standards in the international mobile access tower industry, the Prefabricated Access Suppliers’ and Manufacturers’ Association (PASMA) has launched a new advanced training course: Towers with Cantilevers.

A-Plant, part of FTSE 100 company Ashtead Group plc has embarked on a journey to upgrade its extranet and deliver a new technologically advanced customer portal. The company has committed to invest over £2 million in new technologies that will help keep it at the forefront of the hire industry.

After launching a major customer service initiative over two years ago, AFI has become the only powered access company to hold the coveted Institute of Customer Service ServiceMark accreditation.

HAE EHA would like to make members aware of some fraudulent activity that has taken place over the last 4-5 weeks.

Regulatory compliance is essential for all commercial vehicle operators alongside efficient and cost-effective fleet management which is why a growing number of public and private sector fleets are introducing Jaama’s cutting-edge vehicle and driver management software.

HAE Operations Manager and a few HAE members were given the opportunity to explain to Billy and his team the process and benefits of the SafeHire Certification Scheme in relation to procurement selection criteria...

Jaama’s multi award-winning web based vehicle and driver management solution, Key2, is the UK’s most frequently recommended fleet software...

From April 2017, employers will receive a 10% top-up to their monthly levy contributions in England to spend on apprenticeship training through their digital account.

Important information on bad debtors and stolen equipment from HAE EHA Credit partner Top Service

Delivering the 2016 Budget, Chancellor George Osborne said that the economy was set to grow faster than any other major advanced economy in the world...

The Apprentice Boost Funding is available to HAE EHA members with a turnover of less £1m in the hope that it will help smaller businesses make the leap and employ an apprentice, adding value to their organisation.

An aerial pathway through the leafy canopy of The Forestry Commission’s National Arboretum, Westonbirt, will be officially unveiled by Countryfile presenter, Ellie Harrison, on Tuesday 26th April.

The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) quizzed 188 of its members on how the boss started out and found that nearly 60% began their career as apprentices.

Leading fleet and asset management software supplier Jaama has further strengthened its project management team as it continues to expand its customer portfolio.

A loophole in current legislation is allowing the trade of falsified documents on the basis that they are a novelty item...

PAL hire are delighted that one of their employees been named as the Intermediate Apprentice of the Year 2016.

Jaama, the UK’s leading fleet industry asset management software system provider, has already embarked on further expansion in 2016.

One of Hire Association Europe & Event Hire Association's key activities is to inform its members of good working practices to keep employees and customers safe and free from harm.

A new code of practice on electrical testing has been developed to ensure that hirers of portable and temporary welfare units meet their safety responsibilities.

Leading site machinery and manufacturer, Morris Site Machinery, has expanded its UK footprint by opening its new Parts and Servicing Depot at Old Mill Lane, Pratling in Aylesford and announced Jamie Whyatt as its dedicated Service Engineer.

Important information on bad debtors and stolen equipment from HAE EHA Credit partner Top Service

the bulletin reiterates that submitting tenders in good time is key, especially if users are unfamiliar with the system. The helpdesk can help users resolve queries if there is time to diagnose the problem and to talk the users through the steps they need to take.

Readers from Europe’s rental industry are invited to complete the ERA/IRN RentalTracker survey, looking at the industry’s performance in the first quarter of 2016.

The National Minimum Wage (NMW) is the minimum pay per hour most workers are entitled to by law. The rate will depend on a worker's age and if they are an apprentice.

A new and exciting opportunity has arisen with PASMA, one of the most successful and fastest growing trade associations in the work at height sector.

The Event Hire Association (EHA) was delighted to be headline sponsor for the 2016 outing of the Festival Supplier Awards.

Newport Pagnell, UK - To provide the cleaning and flood restoration industries with a single source for all of their equipment and solution needs, Dri-Eaz Products Ltd. and Chemspec Europe Ltd.

Jaama, the UK’s leading fleet industry asset management software system provider, has achieved best-in-class accreditation to the much sought after Microsoft Gold standard.

Eve, the UK’s leading supplier of temporary access systems, has announced plans to celebrate its 50 year anniversary throughout 2016.

MCS has announced that MCS-rm, its leading rental software solution, now offers a comprehensive integration to the popular cloud-based online accounting software package, Xero.

Makita donated generators to the Cumbrian flood relief operations to help overcome power loss in this rain devastated area last December.

Unless you have been closed off from the media for the entire weekend, you will now be aware that a national referendum on the UK’s continued membership of the European Union is scheduled for the 23rd June 2016.

Stirling based, Morris Site Machinery is set to impress at this year’s ScotPlant on 22nd and 23rd April, as it brings to market the latest innovation from SMC and an exciting new range – Makinex.

The Hire Association Europe (HAE) and Event Hire Association (EHA) has today announced that it is a finalist in the prestigious Association Excellence Awards 2016.

AFI has gained Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) Gold reaccreditation for its good working practices in the way it operates its machine delivery and service van fleets.

Morris Site Machinery has brought a range of innovative products together as Morris Select to complement its current power portfolio and help customers choose the quality equipment they need.

Recordkeeping is crucial for any company, but it takes time to stay ahead of the income and expenditure, chasing outstanding invoices and debts, doing company accounts or preparing financial reports and other duties.

Important information on bad debtors and stolen equipment from HAE EHA Credit partner Top Service

HAE were among 27 original exhibitors, from the first Executive Hire Show back in 2007, and we were awarded a certificate on the stand in recognition.

GAP Hire Solutions, the UK’s leading independent equipment hirer, has launched a new initiative which offers a selection of the company’s 100 most frequently hired products available quickly and delivered efficiently.

You have a diverse workforce within your business, and each demographic needs different support from you. Love your graduates by supporting them with key life skills.

The Executive Hire show awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 10th of February in the Ricoh arena Coventry. With over 870 hire stores visited and assessed.

Important information on bad debtors and stolen equipment from HAE EHA Credit partner Top Service

Equipment hirer GAP Hire Solutions is continuing with its robust growth strategy and will be opening three new depots in the South West of England in February 2016.

The Hire Association Europe (HAE) and Event Hire Association (EHA) has today announced the launch of a major scheme that will see hire companies incentivised to take on apprentices...

We recently reported that construction output in Northern Ireland is predicted to have an annual average growth of 3% over the next five years, higher than the UK rate of 2.5% and YOUR business could have a part to play!

Top Service, the leading supplier of credit information and debt collection services for the construction industry, celebrating its silver anniversary in February 2016 – a huge milestone for a small company that launched back in 1991 with just a handful of small builders’ merchants as their only clients!

With over 16 years’ experience in providing storage solutions, Stakrak are excited to join HAE to help advise members on how they can work smarter, and save time and money with the correct storage.

Top Service, the leading supplier of credit information and debt collection services for the construction industry, celebrating its silver anniversary in February 2016

The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has welcomed the launch of a new consultation that will examine the efficacy of increasing the penalties for individuals that use a hand-held mobile phone while driving.

Powered access specialist AFI has achieved the top 5 star Achilles BuildingConfidence rating for the fifth consecutive year following a recent reassessment.

Whilst the market is experiencing such volatility and oil prices continue to fall, the environment is particularly competitive.

As all business owners know ‘Cash is king’. Having a strong cash flow and avoiding bad debts are two critical objectives for any business to be successful, so setting up a good credit control system is the starting point to achieve this.

We have been working closely with the Hire Association to bring you a new range of stickers...

After six years of contraction, which took the construction sector in Northern Ireland in 2013 down to just 57% of its 2007 peak, output stabilised in 2014.

You’ve provided a small kitchen for staff to make themselves hot food and drinks. Given its limited use, is a fire blanket or fire extinguisher necessary for this area? What are the rules?

Makita has expanded their laser measuring instrument range with the introduction of a further laser distance measure and an additional cross line laser.

Leading fleet and asset management software supplier Jaama has further strengthened its development team as part of its strategic ongoing Key2 product enhancement plan.

Important information on bad debtors and stolen equipment from HAE EHA Credit partner Top Service

The Event Hire Assocation (EHA) will be the headline sponsor at the Festival Supplier Awards, taking place on Thursday 28 January at The Hurlingham Club in London.

HAE member Hire Access has completed the process for becoming fully SafeHire Certified just six months after joining the association and starting the audit process!

Two of the biggest names in swimming pool ventilation, mobile drying and commercial dehumidification manufacture have joined forces, following their acquisition by new investors.

Makita is adding two new, M-Class approved dust extraction vacuum units to its already extensive range as the campaign for improved dust management...

AFI has been certified as a registered supplier with Constructionline, the UK’s leading procurement and supply chain management service.

the STIHL show stand (Stand C80) to see a myriad of industry-leading machines ideal for the Exec Hire Show’s construction, building and DIY visitors.

Leading fleet and asset management software company Jaama is exhibiting at the London Borough of Redbridge 2016 Transport Conference with the focus on compliance.

The ‘Feeling FEIN’ series of reviews is all about getting FEIN’s products into the hands of professional tradesmen.

Richard Denholm has taken the reins as the new Sales Director at leading onsite machinery manufacturer and distributor...

Makita has launched a fresh ‘CXT’ range of 10.8V tools featuring a new slide battery as an addition to their current 10.8v tools featuring the cluster style batteries.

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has appointed a new strategic partnerships director for Scotland.

Legislation will be introduced in Finance Bill 2016 to provide a new power to allow HMRC to make an assessment of a person's Income Tax or Capital Gains Tax liability...

Sometimes it’s hard to stay positive at work, especially at this time of year. It’s easy to get bogged down with the daily grind of work but it’s important to stay positive.

Important information on bad debtors and stolen equipment from HAE EHA Credit partner Top Service

Makita high performance impact wrenches have set the standard of torque performance for the steel erection industry, heavy engineering, plant maintenance and for the pit-stop teams in the World Touring Car Championship and all-electric Formula E World Championship.

Atkins/Arup joint venture has won a £17.5m contract from Highways England to design road improvements on the A303 Stonehenge road.

We are delighted to announce we have been chosen to sponsor this year’s Hire Awards of Excellence.

AFI has gained the Freight Transport Association (FTA) Van Excellence accreditation.

Weld Off 2016, a competition to celebrate the skills of the UK’s top young welders and help them forge ahead with their careers, was launched today (12 January) by leading equipment manufacturer Morris Site Machinery.

Although it is still possible to file your completed paper copy of the self-assessment tax return, there are so many more advantages to filing online...

Important information on bad debtors and stolen equipment from HAE EHA Credit partner Top Service

From 20 – 21 January 2016, STIHL will be presenting LAMMA visitors with cutting-edge products to help cultivate the land; built with the busy farming professional in mind.

THE Ladder Association, the trade body for the UK ladder industry, has confirmed it is leading the development of a British Standards Institution (BSI) UK product standard for portable roof ladders.

AFI has presented a cheque for £5,000 to Together for Short Lives – a leading UK charity for children with life-threatening and life-limiting conditions...

Leading British manufacturer Calorex will be bringing out the big guns at SPATEX 2016...

The need for compact and fuel efficient generators to provide reliable emergency power in the communications industry has sealed a significant order for Morris Site Machinery.

Taxpayers who completed the self-assessment tax return online during December, would have been pointed in the direction of the new personal tax accounts, launched by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).

MCS, leading hire software experts, has launched a revolutionary mobile app that simplifies and automates a hire company's Workshop and Maintenance function.

Seddons Plant & Engineers Ltd has launched one of the company’s biggest ever winter promotions focused on Pumps, Power and Parts.

Providing affordable and efficient solutions for drying problems, Calorex will be showcasing its range of high performance portable dehumidifiers at the Executive Hire Show in February.

During the past year, Milton Keynes based Generac Mobile Products, have been working hard to enlarge their product range and they will be showcasing some of these new lines at the forthcoming Executive Hire Show.

A Northallerton family is organising a black tie ball to raise money for the British Heart Foundation.