The purse strings have been release by Hewden’s new owners, venture capital firm Sun European Partners, who bought the company from Caterpillar dealer Finning last year.
Despite its previous relationship with Cat, though, Hewden has chosen to go the JCB route now, with the British manufacturer taking the largest order. Hewden has placed a £14m order with JCB for a range of Loadall telescopic handlers, mini excavators, tracked and wheeled excavators and the new 3CX Eco backhoe loaders.
The other significant supplier to gain a major contract is Thwaites, from whom more than 125 dumpers have been ordered from across the range.
Hewden chief executive Kevin Parkes said: “We are determined to increase levels of availability so plant and equipment is ready for hire, where and when customers need it. This £20m investment is just the first stage in our development plans for 2011 and is a clear sign of our commitment to customer service and achieving growth.”
Other parts of the business will also see new equipment arriving, he said. “We currently focus on five product platforms, with plant, access, cranes, power generation and accommodation and we will be investing in each of these areas but we are also exploring opportunities to expand our range with complementary products.”
Mr Parkes added: “During 2011 this is likely to include the re-introduction of a specific range of tools for hire, so we can support customers with a full product offer, further improving efficiency and service.”
The return to tool hire comes just four years after former owner Finning sold Hewden’s tool hire business to Speedy for £115m.
In what might be interpreted as a kick at Cat and Finning, Hewden product director Andrew Swallow said: “We have selected the very best product in each category, based on the clear preferences of our customers and working with 'best in class' suppliers, who support the strategic development of our business. We scrutinised competing products to make sure we achieve new levels of safety, reliability and deliver more efficient performance to our customers.”
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