JCB has won a large contract for 700 machines worth more than £40 million from one of the country’s largest plant-hire companies. Ardent Hire Solutions (www.ardentHire.com) is buying JCB Loadall telescopic handlers and rough-terrain fork-lift trucks; the machines are being supplied through Leicestershire-based dealer Watling JCB (www.watling-jcb.com).

Ardent Hire Solutions, which was set up last year from the amalgamation of Fork Rent and One Call Hire, has its head office in Middlesex and 12 depots nation-wide. The company has more than 5,000 vehicles (with an average age of less than two years) worth approximately £150 million.

JCB UK and Ireland sales director Dan Thompstone said: “This investment continues a long-standing relationship between JCB, Fork Rent and One Call Hire. It is a massive deal; and with the bulk of the order for JCB Loadall telehandlers, it represents the biggest this year for that product anywhere in the world.”

Tom Gleeson, commercial director at Ardent Hire Solutions, said: “The company is increasing its share of the UK hire market and intends building on that position by investing in the best equipment on offer.

This purchase of JCB machines is our largest investment so far this year. We are committed to invest in the best, most technologically advanced machines for our customers, offering far-superior products than any of ourcompetitors.

“The service and quality of goods provided by both JCB and Watling JCB is one of the main factors we continue our strong partnership.”