Briggs creates aerial platform business in Ireland

Photo: Aerial Platform Hire

UK-based Briggs Equipment, a subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, has merged its two aerial platform businesses in the Republic of Ireland.

The company said the merger between Aerial Platform Hire and Blulift is a “significant expansion” and is part of its long-term strategic vision to enhance its customer proposition across Ireland. The companies will now operate as Aerial Platform Hire.

As a result of the merger, Briggs said Aerial will now assume control of all access hire contracts currently managed by Briggs Equipment, while existing staff will transfer over to the new entity.

Founded in 2011 and based in county Limerick, Blulift has been a part of Briggs since December 2022, when it was acquired by the company.

It offers hire, sales, training and maintenance services for all varieties of specialist access equipment. 

Aerial Platform Hire, headquartered in Clane, county Kildare, also joined Briggs in 2022 following an acquisition.

The company, which also has branches in Clare and Limerick, has recently undergone expansion under the ownership of Briggs, adding 12 lithium powered LGMG articulated boom lifts and a wide range of new electric, diesel and hybrid platforms.

It also owns Ireland’s largest selection of spider booms, ranging from 15 to 33 metres.

Keith O’Rourke, general manager, Aerial Platform Hire, said the merger positions the company to enhance its services to customers; “The long-term vision of Briggs Equipment promises even more upgrades and I am excited to see where it takes us. We are modernising and improving every week, all of it with the customer experience in mind.

“We want to deliver the best possible service to all customers, wherever they are, and there is a real desire here to be the benchmark in terms of equipment rental companies in Ireland.

“As the manager, I am delighted to be leading this initiative and look forward to the continued growth and success of our company, supported by the dedicated and talented team here at Aerial Platform Hire.”

Meanwhile, the company said it plans to further invest in its fleet and depot network in the coming months.