28.09.2007

Speedy on the move in Ireland

Speedy Hire has appointed Eugene Heather as managing director of Speedy Ireland which covers both the north and south of Ireland. Heather previously headed Dublin based Sam Hire where he worked for 19 years.

Heather said: "No other hire group can compete with Speedy in terms of its range, resources and strength of offering. We have already established two major outlets in Dublin and Belfast serving many of Ireland's leading contractors and construction firms. This network will grow rapidly as we identify new greenfield sites and acquisition opportunities."
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Eugene Heather

"Although the Irish construction market has become increasingly sophisticated, the hire sector that serves contractors is fragmented. Speedy has already shown, through partnership with contractors, that there is a strong commercial case for construction businesses to consolidate their hire requirements through a single company. Our intention is to extend Speedy's proven model in Ireland and explore new opportunities."

Steve Corcoran, chief executive of Speedy Hire, said: "Eugene's appointment marks a significant milestone in the development of our Irish business. His experience and proven track record will enable us to accelerate our expansion plans and make Speedy the largest hire provider in Ireland."

Also this week Speedy has made a further acquisition in Ireland buying the trading assets and taking on the staff from Hire Centres Dublin North.

Hire Centres is an independent tool and equipment hire business which specialises in portable heating and air conditioning. The staff and the operations of the business will transfer to the Speedy headquarters at Glasnevin on October 1st.

Eugene Heather, Managing Director for Speedy Ireland, said: "Hire Centres is a highly respected operator that will complement our current business.

Vertikal Comment

Speedy clearly has its sights set on becoming a major player in the all Ireland general rental market. Its largest competitor HSS invigorated under new ownership already has a strong base in Ireland and is well established.

However Speedy’s acquisition of Waterford Hire and the employment of Eugene Heather will provide a major boost.

Interestingly both Waterford Hire and Heathers former employer, Sam Hire, have significant powered access fleets, a product range that Speedy has tended to shy away from in the UK.

It will be interesting to see if in Ireland it builds this part of the business and if it does whether this will influence its approach to powered access in the UK market.

Look out for further acquisitions in Ireland in the months ahead.