JCB has secured the biggest single order for Loadall telescopic handlers ever placed by a UK customer, as part of a two-year deal worth more than £75 million.

Ardent Hire Solutions, a leading plant hire company, has invested in a fleet of 1,100 Loadalls (ranging from the compact 525-60 through to the 550-80), along with a fleet of 3CX back-hoe loaders, rough-terrain fork-lifts and 7T Hi-Viz site dumpers.

These machines are built at JCB’s Staffordshire factories, powered by engines from the JCB Power Systems factory in Derbyshire and equipped with transmissions and axles from JCB Transmissions in Wrexham.

They are also fitted with the latest JCB LiveLink telematics system, giving real-time information on their operation and safe usage.

Yvette Henshall-Bell, JCB Group managing director (global major accounts), said: “We are delighted to secure this major order from one of the UK’s leading plant hire companies.

“It shows great confidence in JCB machinery — and also in the wider construction sector which Ardent’s plant hire business supports.

“JCB has worked closely with Ardent for a number of years, and it is testament to the quality of our range of Loadalls and the safety credentials of our site dumpers that we have secured this business.”

Anuj Patel, head of marketing at Ardent Hire Solutions, said: “This latest acquisition further strengthens Ardent’s tele-handler fleet.

“The availability of advanced technology and telematics on the entire fleet was critical for us when specifying JCB machines.”