05.09.2016

Ardent orders big with JCB

The UK’s largest telehandler rental company Ardent has placed a £40 million order with JCB for 700 telescopic handlers and rough terrain forklift trucks long with some other JCB units. The machines are being supplied through JCB dealer Watling JCB.

The deal includes a large number of the 20 metre/ four tonne 540-200 straight frame models, while the rough terrain forklifts are aimed at Ardent’s events’ division.

Ardent’s commercial director Tom Gleeson said: “Ardent Hire Solutions is increasing its share of the UK hire market and we intend building on that position by investing in the best equipment on offer. Our purchase of JCB machines is our largest investment so far this year. We are committed to invest in the best, most technologically advanced machines for our customers offering far superior products then any of our competitors. The service excellence and quality of goods provided by both JCB and Watling JCB is one of the main factors we continue our strong partnership.”

JCB UK/Ireland sales director Dan Thompstone added: “This investment continues a long-standing relationship between JCB, Fork Rent and One Call Hire. It is a massive deal and with the bulk of the order for telehandlers, it represents the biggest order this year for that product anywhere in the world. Ardent Hire Solutions is a key partner for us in the UK rental market and its continued investment in JCB equipment is testament to JCB’s product innovation, reliability and unrivalled UK-wide dealer aftermarket and parts support.”
Ardent Hire Solutions was established from the merger of Fork Rent and One Call Hire in August 2015. It currently operates from 12 locations with a fleet of more than 5,000 units with an average age of less than two years.