Friday Roundup: Speedy’s profit warning | High Reach 2 deal | ARA Show

Financial results, acquisitions and the ARA Show (January 28 to February 1) in Las Vegas, and made headlines in the week from January 30 to February 5.

Photo: Speedy Hire

UK rental firm Speedy issued a profit warning, citing a “challenging” final quarter of its financial year ending March 31, 2025.

While rental revenue grew 5% year-on-year in December, an economic downturn and slower post-December recovery have impacted overall performance.

To mitigate these challenges, what strategies will Speedy implement? Additionally, how does the company plan to capitalize on the CP7 rail investment plan in FY2026?

Read on to discover how Speedy plans to leverage UK government infrastructure spending for future growth.

UK private equity firm Arcus Infrastructure Partners announced its acquisition of a 51% stake in Italian power rental firm Powering Srl.

With a fleet of 1,500 generators across 55 locations, Powering aims to strengthen its position in energy rental while advancing innovation and sustainability. Arcus sees growth potential and ESG improvements through strategic asset management.

United Rentals acquires High Reach 2

United Rentals acquired Florida-based aerial rental firm High Reach 2, reinforcing its market position. The company reported a 9.8% revenue increase in Q4 2024, bringing full-year revenue to $15.3 billion.

Despite projecting slower 2-5% growth in 2025, United plans up to $3.95 billion in capital expenditures and anticipates completing its H&E acquisition.

Meanwhile, Chinese battery storage company EJT New Energy supplied 10 energy storage units to rental firms in Singapore and Dubai, including Al Shola Transport.

EJT integrates CATL lithium-ion batteries with ComAp controllers, offering units from 100kW to 1,000kW, designed for extreme temperatures and efficient power management.

The ARA Show

Wacker Neuson introduced the RTD-SC4 trench roller, designed to meet the critical needs of rental and contractor customers.

This redesigned model, powered by a 19.8hp Kohler KDW1003 diesel engine, builds on Wacker Neuson’s 30-year trench roller legacy. The RTD-SC4 prioritizes durability, low maintenance, and enhanced operator experience. IRN Editor Lewis Tyler spoke with Wacker Neuson executives about the latest technology upgrades.

Kerridge Commercial Systems (KCS) also returned to the ARA Show after six years, showcasing its inspHire Corporate ERP system.

This software supports rental businesses with customizable reporting, accounting, and finance tools, enabling paperless operations and multi-company, multi-currency management.