GAP moves up into bigger rollers

Scotland-based GAP Hire Solutions has made its first major large equipment purchase since announcing a £100 million (€140 million) fleet investment package in April.

The order, for three new articulated rollers from tandem rollers supplier Hamm, marks a change in strategy for GAP, which previously re-hired larger equipment from other rental companies rather than buying outright.

GAP said the rollers, which have been delivered to depots in Aberdeen and Inverness, were proactively sourced in response to a customer requirement for product in the area.

“The addition of these large rollers to our fleet strengthens our relationship with Hamm and offers our valued customers a wider choice for their sites,” said GAP’s head of procurement Ken Stewart.

“We were impressed with the flexibility demonstrated by Hamm in providing us with specialist equipment at relatively short notice.

“For larger rollers we would always source via our re-hire partners but after careful consideration, we decided to switch to outright purchase. Where possible we try and purchase new equipment if there is a customer specific requirement and if the numbers stack up commercially.

“We are enjoying increased demand for our larger plant in this area and we are excited at the new opportunities that these rollers will undoubtedly bring.”

The articulated tandem rollers have a drum width of 168cm, compared to the biggest in GAP’s existing roller fleet of 138cm.