UK renter steps away from heavy plant

Photo: Buckingham Plant Hire

UK-based rental company Buckingham Plant Hire has announced that it is stepping away from heavy equipment rentals after 69 years. 

The company, founded in 1955, said it is stepping away to concentrate on developing the sustainable divisions within the business group.

Buckingham said it will continue to provide a full range of light plant services through its ACE Plant brand that it acquired in 2016 while it focuses on building a sustainable hire fleet.

The ACE Plant fleet is mainly focused on sustainable solutions, with the company offering lithium hybrid tower lights and lithium UTVs, among other equipment.

The move comes as managing director Paul Wheeler retires after 40 years in the role. He said, “Our concept was the delivery of a fully inclusive service to our customers, backed up with a rigorous regime of diligent maintenance, devised to keep our equipment in first-class condition. I’m proud of everything we achieved over the years and immensely grateful for the commitment and dedication we’ve had from so many colleagues who have supported the company and its ethos since those early beginnings.

“Stepping away from our traditional roots in heavy plant has been a difficult decision, as it truly represents the end of an era. However, realistically, the UK heavy plant sector is going through a period of radical transition, and it’s time to hand over to the next generation. The decision to retire the heavy fleet is part of a longer-term business strategy designed to embrace a sustainable future.”

The third generation’s involvement in the company will continue, with George Wheeler taking on the role of operations director of ACE Plant.

He added, “By retiring our heavy plant fleet and focusing our resources on ACE Plant’s sustainable lithium-powered range, we’re taking a decisive step towards supporting the UK’s net zero goals. It’s an exciting journey to be on.”

“The shift towards sustainable plant operations is not just necessary—it’s inevitable. Our investment strategy demonstrates our commitment to change, ensuring that we operate responsibly while helping to shape the industry’s future. As the utilisation of diesel-powered equipment declines, we’re looking forward to being at the forefront of this vital transformation.”

As the company begins to plan its move towards sustainable offering, it has enlisted Euro Auction to sell its heavy fleet, with 72 machines to go under the hammer on 27th February at the Buckingham Plant Hire HQ.

David Betts of Euro Auctions commented, “We are excited to announce this single-source dispersal sale of Buckingham Plant Hire’s entire heavy plant fleet, taking place at their Silverstone Road headquarters on 27th February 2025.

“This sale marks the company’s shift from its traditional focus on heavy plant equipment to concentrate on its lighter side and sustainable EV fleet through the ACE Plant brand. We anticipate substantial interest in the impressive range of machines on offer.”