Ardent in £40 million JCB order

UK rental company Ardent has bolstered its fleet with an investment in over £40 million (€47 million) worth of new machines from manufacturer JCB.

The 700 machines – JCB Loadall telescopic handlers and rough terrain forklift trucks – were supplied through Leicestershire-based JCB dealer Watling JCB.

Ardent Hire Solutions was established last year from the combination of Fork Rent and One Call Hire. With its head office in Middlesex, the business trades from 12 depots nationwide and provides over 5000 units for rent with an average age of less than two years and a fleet holding of approximately £150 million (€178 million).

JCB UK and Ireland sales director Dan Thompstone said, “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 JCB Loadall telehandlers, it represents the biggest deal 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.”

And Tom Gleeson, Ardent Hire Solutions commercial director, 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.”