Pearson retires from access

UK-based Star Platforms has announced the retirement of longstanding access industry professional Andy Pearson, with a career spanning over 30 years.

The company paid tribute to Pearson and said he had been instrumental in shaping the sector.

Andy Pearson during his time at Star Platforms. (Photo: Star Platforms).

Pearson’s journey in the hire industry began at Chislett Tool Hire, before he moved on to roles at Stephens and Carter and Key Scaffold in 1993, where he specialised in the Aluminium Tower Division.

This became a significant career milestone with Key Scaffold becoming A.M.P Access in 1995. Over the years, Pearson progressed through various roles including Sales Manager, Sales Director, and eventually Managing Director. During his tenure as Managing Director, he played a crucial role in the successful sale of A.M.P Access to Nationwide Access which was later rebranded Nationwide Platforms by its owners the Lavendon Group Plc and has since been acquired by Loxam Group.

Following this, Pearson continued to make an impact as South West Regional Director at Nationwide Access (Lavendon Group Plc) from January 2007 to 2010. He then took on the role of Managing Director at Prolift Access from January 2010 to 2019, where he led the growth of the company from 35 to 900 MEWPs before its sale to Speedy in November 2017.

In his most recent position, Pearson served as South West Regional Director at Star Platforms from January 2021 until July 2024, where he was instrumental in establishing the South West depot in Bridgwater and significantly contributing to the company’s success.

Fond farewell 

Richard Miller, Managing Director at Star Platforms, shared his admiration and gratitude. “I first worked with Andy in 1998 when I started the Access Link and invited A.M.P to join as our South West member.

Andy Pearson and Richard Miller at Star Platforms. (Photo: Star Platforms).

“Our collaboration continued through the sale of A.M.P and Panther to Lavendon Plc. Andy’s contributions during the Link meetings and our visits to manufacturers were both valuable and enjoyable. His role as South West Director for Star Platforms was pivotal in locating premises and building our team, leading to the thriving success of our South West depot.

“Recently, Andy has also overseen our Training offering and developed a robust customer base. As he retires to enjoy his many hobbies (such as cycling, travelling and golfing) and to spend more time holidaying with his wife Alison, we extend our heartfelt thanks and best wishes for his retirement.”

Steve Simmons, Joint Managing Director at Star Platforms, added, “Andy’s retirement marks the end of a notable era in the powered access industry. His legacy of leadership, growth, and dedication will be remembered fondly by colleagues, clients, and industry peers. We wish Andy all the best in his retirement and thank him for his outstanding service to the industry.”