HSS acquires Haulotte's UK Platforms

Tools specialist HSS Hire Services Group (HSS) has acquired UK Platforms, Haulotte Group’s UK rental business.

The transaction will make HSS Rental the second largest provider of powered access equipment in the UK, according to the company. It follows the sale of HSS to private equity firm Exponent Private Equity from previous owners Och-Ziff and Aurigo in October last year. Within a week of that deal HSS bought leading UK power rental company Abird Generator Hire.

UK Platforms was founded in 2000 and supplies an extensive range of electric and diesel powered access products, including scissors, boom lifts and telehandlers. Its customer base is found in construction, facilities management, maintenance and signage. It has about 120 employees and operates from 10 depots.

Chris Davies, HSS Hire’s chief executive officer, said the strategic acquisition would complement HSS’ existing powered access fleet and operator training services, enabling it to offer a wider range of equipment to customers and a more comprehensive service in the powered access sector.

“We believe that UK Platforms is a great fit for HSS and reflects our commitment to adding specialist expertise to our Group,” said Mr Davies. “There is great cultural alignment - we each care strongly about safety, high-quality kit, great value and industry-leading customer service. We look forward to a continuing strategic partnership with Haulotte.”

Alexandre Saubot, Haulotte Group chief executive officer, said UK Platforms contributed €20 million to the company in 2012, adding that the transaction would have a positive impact on its 2013 first half financial results.

“It will significantly reduce our debt and strengthen our financial capacity to pursue strategic opportunities in our core business when they will appear," explained Mr Saubot. "This deal should enable us to further strengthen the close relationship we have with the HSS Group for several years.”

HSS said it will continue its existing relationships with other specialist providers in the UK. UK Platforms’ managing director Philip James added, “UKP is a specialist in its field, distinguished by an excellent range and service commitment. We look forward to becoming part of the HSS Group and the future service enhancements this will bring to customers and colleagues of both organisations.”