HSS adds fleet and expertise to become the UK's second largest provider of Powered Access

HSS Hire Services Group (“HSS”), the national supplier of tools, equipment and related services, has acquired UK Platforms, the powered access specialist, from the Haulotte Group. The transaction will make HSS the second-largest provider in the powered access market in Britain and Ireland.

UK Platforms was founded in 2000 and is a nationwide hire company supplying an extensive range of electric and diesel powered access products, including scissor lifts, boom lifts and telehandlers. Its customer base is spread across a range of industries including construction, facilities management, maintenance and signage. It has approximately 120 employees and operates from a network of ten depots.

The specialist strategic acquisition will complement HSS' existing powered access fleet and operator training capabilities, enabling it to offer a wider range of equipment to customers and provide a more comprehensive service in the powered access hire sector. In addition, HSS will continue its relationships with other leading specialist providers to ensure that its customers continue to benefit from a single source of expertise and supply.

The acquisition is the second since Exponent acquired HSS in October 2012, following the acquisition by HSS of ABird Generator Hire last year.

Chris Davies, Chief Executive Officer at HSS Hire said:

“We believe that UK Platforms is a great fit for HSS and reflects our commitment to adding specialist expertise to our Group. I'm confident that it will help us to continue to deliver an unrivalled hire experience to our customers. 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.”

The acquisition by HSS is supported by UK Platforms' senior management, led by Managing Director Philip James who said: “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.”