20.06.2023

Simplex acquires Skytec Rentals

Canadian rental company Location d'outils Simplex/Simplex Equipment Rental, has acquired Skytec Rentals of Hamilton, Ontario, the first step in an expansion programme into Ontario.

Family owned Simplex is based in Quebec City and runs 34 branches in the province, with around 550 employees, offering a wide range of tools and equipment including a substantial fleet of booms, scissor lifts and telehandlers. The company - founded in 1907 by the Véronneau family - originally specialised in tools and floor maintenance equipment and is now managed by a fifth generation of the family. The acquisition is the largest in the company’s long history.

Skytec was established in 2012 runs a substantial fleet of aerial lifts from Genie, JLG, MEC and Skyjack and employs around 40 people serving the ‘golden horseshoe’ region including Niagara Falls, London, Toronto, Barrie, Georgetown, Orangeville, Peterborough, Oshawa and Belleville.

Simplex says that it has no plans to make any changes to Skytec which will retain its own brand name. No details of the transaction have been disclosed.

Chief executive Euclide Véronneau said: "We are very proud of this acquisition not only because Skytec is a very well run company, but also because we share with its team common values and a business vision focused on customer needs and employee well-being. This transaction is in line with our development plan which includes acquisitions. It will certainly help strengthen our leadership position in the Canadian tool and equipment rental market, accelerate our growth in Ontario, and provide our customers with a superior product offering."

Skytec chief executive Frank Tam added: "From the very first meetings, the chemistry was quickly established! We're very excited to be joining Simplex and combining our strengths with a team that's like us and that's respected in the Canadian industry. We are convinced that this transaction will be beneficial not only for our two organisations but also for companies looking for specialised equipment."