Cooper Equipment makes trio of acquisitions

Photo: Cooper Equipment Rentals

Cooper Equipment Rentals has expanded its presence in Canada with the acquisitions of Rent All Centre (RAC), Skyhigh Platforms, and Big Stick Rentals. No financial details have been disclosed.

Founded in 1973, RAC and Skyhigh Platforms provide general rental and aerial equipment. The companies operate from locations in Cobourg, Port Hope, Peterborough (two branches), Belleville, Trenton and Whitby.

Big Stick Rentals, founded in 2013, operates from Grande Prairie, Alberta. The company provides a range of rental equipment for contractors in the region.

Brian Wheatley, president of RAC, said, “It is with great pride that we have now joined another Canadian owned company, to continue the path we’ve been walking. The Cooper family will continually improve on our already excellent service and reputation.”

The acquisition increases Cooper’s presence along Ontario’s Highway 401 corridor, complementing its existing network in Toronto, Oshawa, Kingston and Ottawa.

Kevin Bjornson, owner of Big Stick Rentals, said, “I never expected to find a large partner who shared the same core values and culture as our little company. As I learned more about Cooper, it became evident that the small family who made large contributions to Big Stick Rentals’ success would be well taken care of in the Cooper family.”

Cooper CEO Doug Dougherty said, “At Cooper, we don’t just grow for the sake of growth – we expand with purpose. Bringing these businesses into the Cooper family means we’re strengthening our service, growing our footprint, and staying true to what matters most: delivering the best rental experience in the industry.”

Brian Spilak, COO of Cooper, added that the expansion comes with operational advantages; “For our customers, these acquisitions mean more access to the equipment they need, where and when they need it. By expanding our network, we’re not just adding locations – we’re investing in better service, faster response times, and deeper local expertise.

“Whether it’s a small contractor or a major project, we’re ensuring they have the right equipment and support to keep their jobs moving forward.”

Headquartered in Toronto, Cooper Equipment Rentals is one of the largest rental companies in Canada, where it operates over 80 branches.

The company has grown significantly since 2010 through multiple acquisitions. In 2023 it acquired speciality businesses Warner Rentals and Scotty’s Rentals and Landscaping.