Riwal acquires AFI GmbH

The Netherlands-based Riwal has acquired German rental company AFI GmbH.

AFI GmbH rents aerial work platforms, telehandlers and forklifts, founded in 2003 by Günther Aust. Today the company operates a fleet of 1300 machines from nine depots across Germany and has 110 employees.

AFI GmbH’s managing director Günther Aust will continue to lead the company over the next three months, and after that will stay involved as an advisor for at least another nine months. Søren Rosenkrands, Riwal COO, will be in charge of the integration of the two companies and will be leading them on an interim basis in addition to his existing duties. The existing business of Riwal Germany will continue to be managed by Riwal’s Nick Field.

Norty Turner, Riwal’s CEO, commented, “Riwal and AFI GmbH are a strong fit as both companies are specialists in powered access and have a strong customer focus. In line with its growth strategy, the acquisition of AFI GmbH allows Riwal to strengthen its position in Germany, one of the largest access equipment rental markets in Europe. It will provide our German customers as well as our international key accounts with national coverage in Germany, helping us to provide the best customer experience. The entire Riwal team and I warmly welcome AFI’s team into the Riwal Group.”

Mr Aust added, “I am proud that the company we have developed since 2003 is now joining forces with one of the global leaders in powered access rental. It will allow for further growth in the German market and will provide development opportunities for the employees. In the period ahead, I will closely work for Riwal to ensure a successful integration between the two companies”.