United Rentals buys Canadian trench equipment specialist

United Rentals is to acquire Ontario Laser Rentals, a Canadian company that rents trench safety equipment.

Ontario Laser, which has been in business for nearly 40 years, is based in Etobicoke, near Toronto, and has a depot in Ottawa. It also recently moved into the Montreal market.

In addition to lasers levels and other surveying equipment, Ontario Laser rents a wide range of trench safety systems and heavy equipment related to underground construction, including excavators, slide rails, trench boxes and road plates.

Paul McDonnell, senior vice president, United Rentals Trench Safety, Power & HVAC, said, "The acquisition of Ontario Laser is an important expansion of our trench safety leadership position in North America.

"Ontario Laser is an excellent strategic fit for us, both in terms of its market base and its alignment with our cooperative approach to customer service."

The acquisition, which is still subject to certain conditions in the purchase agreement, is being carried out by United's Canadian subsidiary, United Rentals of Canada, Inc.