Plantforce Rentals

Plantforce Rentals, established in 1999, has transitioned from a regional plant hire company into a significant national supplier within the UK's construction and infrastructure sectors. The company was founded by Claire Trott, who started the business in the southwest with just three machines and two employees. Over 25 years, she cultivated the firm, which now reports a turnover of £57.8 million, into a major player on some of the UK's largest construction projects. In April 2024, Trott transitioned to the role of Founder Executive Director, appointing Sam Mercer as the new CEO. Mercer's journey with the company is noteworthy; he has been with Plantforce for over 12 years, working his way up from the workshop to the boardroom, which provides him with a comprehensive understanding of the business.

The company operates a business model centered on the rental of heavy machinery and equipment, serving a diverse client base that includes the construction, rail, energy, and major project industries. Its revenue is generated through the hire of its extensive fleet, which can be provided on a self-drive basis or with skilled operators. Plantforce has secured Tier 1 supplier status on the two largest infrastructure projects in the UK: the Hinkley Point C nuclear power station and the High Speed 2 (HS2) rail line. This accomplishment underscores its capacity to handle large-scale, complex logistical and operational demands. At the peak of its involvement with Hinkley Point C, the company had over 300 pieces of equipment and 220 personnel on-site.

Plantforce's service offerings are extensive, with a fleet of over 2,000 pieces of equipment. This includes a wide array of earthmoving and construction machinery, such as excavators, as well as specialized attachments and vehicles. The company has diversified its operations into several specialized divisions, including Plantforce Compact, Attachments, Digital, and Crushing and Screening, to cater to specific industry requirements. A key differentiator is the integration of digital technology into its fleet, such as GPS machine control systems, which enhances on-site efficiency and safety by reducing the need for manual surveying. Furthermore, Plantforce is actively involved in sustainability initiatives, participating in projects to pioneer hydrogen technology as a cleaner alternative to diesel, aiming to reduce the construction sector's carbon footprint.

Keywords: equipment rental, construction machinery, infrastructure projects, Tier 1 supplier, earthmoving equipment, Hinkley Point C, HS2, plant hire, skilled operators, digital construction