Sunbelt buys UK film and TV renter

Sunbelt Rentals has acquired London-based film, TV and commercial grip specialist Alpha Grip (UK) Limited; the terms of the transaction have not been disclosed.

The move follows a number of recent Sunbelt acquisitions in the UK TV and film rental sector.

Established in 2004 and based in Pinewood Studios, Greater London, Alpha Grip services the UK film and television industry with equipment including telescopic and modular camera cranes, stabilised and non-stabilised remote heads, modular cranes, anti-vibration systems, jib arms and dollies.

A dolly from Alpha Grip in action. Photo: Alpha Grip website.

A statement from Sunbelt said the acquisition strengthens its offering in the British film and television industry following the recent purchase of UK camera, lens and grip rental specialist Movietech, PKE Lighting and access specialist Media Access Solutions (MAS).

Alpha Grip was also “well positioned for growth within the UK Film market,” the statement said. 

Alpha Grip, MAS, PKE and Movietech will work closely with William F. White International (WFW), a film and television production rental business owned by Sunbelt.

Andy Wright, Sunbelt Rentals UK CEO, said, “with the combined knowledge and expertise of Alpha, MAS, PKE, Movietech and William F. White International (WFW), also a Sunbelt Rentals company, we will offer our clients a completely integrated, full-service production solution, which will be a true differentiator in today’s industry.

The Alpha team “will remain in the business and work alongside Sunbelt Rentals as we continue to execute our exciting UK expansion plan,” he said.

Alpha Grip owner John Tadros commented: “It’s a great opportunity for us to join Sunbelt Rentals UK, working closely with Movietech, PKE and MAS, as well as with WFW in Canada. Together, we have an extensive combined knowledge and experience of the production market that is primed for further growth.”

Meanwhile, Sunbelt parent Ashstead Group has made numerous acquisitions in the last six months, many of them in North America.