Nixon Hire sells welfare van fleet

Nixon Hire is selling its fleet of welfare vans to Sunbelt Rentals UK as part of its re-focus on “sustainable sites” equipment.

The company had invested in the van fleet for more than a decade but will now redeploy capital into areas such as modular buildings, renewable power, site accommodation and site welfare cabins.

Nixon’s strategy is to exit from traditional construction equipment rental and instead focus on becoming a specialist in sustainable and low-carbon products.

Sunbelt said in a separate announcement that it had acquired more the 200 welfare vans, increasing the size of its fleet by 130%. The vans include Ford EcoBoost models, many of which are HVO fuel compliant and solar supported. The vehicles including toilet and hand-wash facilities, USB charging, air conditioning and secure storage.

Graham Nixon, CEO of Nixon Hire, said; “This is a carefully considered strategic deal and a positive outcome for all parties. The sale enables us to lean further and faster into our transition from generalist provider to specialist partner – directing additional capital into modular buildings, renewable power, site accommodation, site welfare and the other high-growth areas that define the ‘new’ Nixon Hire.

Nixon Hire is selling its fleet of welfare vans. (Image: Nixon Hire)

“Our strategy has always been about listening to our customers and staying ahead of where the industry is going, being proactive and making decisive moves. Following a period of meaningful change to our operating model in line with that approach, we’re now seeing the benefits start to filter through, with healthy and sustainable commercial and operational momentum building across the business.

“Looking forward, with a strong pipeline across our target markets and a wave of new products, services and innovations set to roll out, we have real confidence in the strength and direction of the business.”

At Sunbelt Rentals, Chris Hanley, operations director, said; "This acquisition marks a major step forward in how we can support our customers across the UK and Europe.

"From starting with 30 vehicles, we've grown the fleet into a key part of our business offering whereby we support multiple geographical areas and sectors. This achievement is a testament to the work of our team at the Derby depot, who have built this business over the past 10 years.”