One Call and Fork Rent become Ardent Hire Solutions

Ardent Hire Solutions is the name of the new combined company formed by the buyout and merger of UK equipment rental companies One Call Hire and Fork Rent.

The new company, led by former Speedy Hire CEO, Steve Corcoran, claims to have the largest joint telehandler and excavator fleet in the UK, and is backed by over £100 million (€131 million) of new investment to further strengthen the fleet.

The business trades from 11 depots nationwide with over 5000 units for rent, with an average age of less than two years and a fleet holding of approximately £150 million (€197 million).

Ardent said it also had plans for expansion in the UK, with new equipment and new depots on the cards across the country.

“We chose the name to reflect all that is best about our new company, and what makes us different from our competitors,” said Mr Corcoran.

“Ardent is strong and eager. It is enthusiastic and passionate. It can even be zealous in its pursuit of the very best. These are all characteristic that sum up our fresh and positive approach. We are a company that goes above and beyond to provide better service and smarter solutions that will make us stand out in a crowded marketplace.”

The company was originally formed in August 2015, when private equity firms Searchlight Capital Partners and Duke Street Capital together with key management completed the purchase. Since then it has undergone a period of consolidation, while still trading under the two original company names.

“I’m delighted to have such an experienced team behind the new business,” Mr Corcoran continued. “We understand what our customers want and how to deliver that in a fresh, positive and proactive way.”

“As the new name suggests we are passionate and enthusiastic and provide full strategic planning and support, not only offering equipment, but also genuine solutions based on unrivalled industry experience and expertise.”

New chairman

And Ardent appointed former chief executive and current non-executive chairman of Galliford Try, Greg Fitzgerald, as its new chairman. Mr Fitzgerald is also a non-executive director of the NHBC and a Governor of the South Devon College.