SHC Hire has completed the acquisition of tool and plant hire company Hartley Hire, in a seven-figure deal.
The deal represents the first chapter in SHC’s buy-and-build growth strategy, and sees the company increase its presence across the north of England. It’s the first acquisition of its nature for SHC since the 2016 MBO.
Based in the south Lake District and north Lancashire, Hartley Hire is the trading name of A&W Tool Hire Limited. The family-run business was founded in 1984 and has branches in Windermere, Kendal, Carnforth, Lancaster and Morecambe. The company specialises in tools for trade and small plant equipment.
The acquisition of Hartley Hire by SHC will strengthen SHC’s current offering while expanding its footprint into the south Lake District and North Lancashire. SHC already has depots in Skipton, Ilkley, Ripon and Northallerton. All 12 members of Hartley Hire staff were retained with the company.
The Hartley Hire arm of the business will be led by Regional Director Lee Hallsworth. Lee recently re-joined SHC after a five year absence, previously holding the role of Operations Manager.
SHC Managing Director Neil Bravery (pictured with Rishi Sunak) said: “We’re pleased to complete the purchase of Hartley Hire. Hartley Hire is a company that shares our values and there is a real synergy between the two businesses. This acquisition will benefit our regional clients in both Yorkshire and the south Lake District and North Lancashire.
“Going forward, our customers can be assured of the same, friendly personal service and commitment to quality that they have experienced at both SHC and Hartley Hire."
Founded in 1981 as Skipton Hire Centre Ltd, SHC was one of the first companies to be awarded the HAE’s ‘Safe Hire’ accreditation in 2001, later garenering the ‘Hire Company of the Year’, ‘Excellence in Customer Care’ and ‘Excellence in Training’ awards.