Issuu

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF

September 2026 | A KHL Group publication | www.khl.com

INTERVIEWS Kai Schliephake, IPAF p14

Francesco Quaranta, Hitachi p34

Charles Bénard, Hiboo p49

Shows go annual & move to Amsterdam p21

EXCAVATORS

Mid-sized workhorses

INCORPORATING

p16

ELEVATING YOUR SUCCESS WITH LGMG

FROM THE EDITOR Incorporating

September 2026 Volume 1 | Issue 6

EDITORIAL

Editor Euan Youdale | euan.youdale@khl.com Director of Content Murray Pollok Group Editors Alex Dahm, Andy Brown, Mike Hayes, D.Ann Shiffler IPAF News Editor Peter Douglas

PRODUCTION

Client Success & Delivery Manager Charlotte Kemp | charlotte.kemp@khl.com Client Success & Delivery Team Alex Thomson, Ben Fisher, Olivia Radcliffe, Cuan Hansbury Group Designer Jade Hudson

SALES

Vice President Sales, Access & Rental Divison Ollie Hodges | ollie.hodges@khl.com Brand Manager, Access & Rental Division Pete Balistrieri | pete.balistrieri@khl.com Global Vice President Sales Alister Williams

AUDIENCE

Data Manager Anna Philo Data Executive Vicki Rummery

EVENTS

Head of Events Steve Webb Event Design Manager Gary Brinklow Creative Designer Kate Brown

FINANCE

Finance Manager Yasmin Youmi HR Manager Sharron Brown Client Success & Digital Director Peter Watkinson Chief Financial Officer Paul Baker Chief Executive Officer James King

Breaking new ground

ai Schliephake, the new president of the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF), remembers in his interview (page 14) how he gave a speech to a group of industry professionals 20 years ago about the value of wearing harnesses in MEWPs. He wasn’t just met with scepticism; some in the room accused him harming the industry, that users would be put of renting the equipment if they thought they needed to wear PPE.

As Schliephake says, the rental sector has come a long way in these past two decades, but there is no place for complacency. His message is that we must keep driving safety forward across the world. Just how far the industry has come is illustrated by the Access50 survey in this issue, listing the world’s largest MEWP rental fleets. Two Chinese rental companies are in the top three, and one of them – Horizon Construction Development - is expanding rapidly outside China. Around 10% of its 200,000+ unit fleet is now located outside its home market. Also in this issue we report on plans by KHL Group to shift the APEX and International Rental Exhibition (IRE) events to an annual cycle, to be held at the RAI venue in Amsterdam. The shows in June this year were a success and the plan is to build on that and make it a combined, annual event for the international rental market. The dates for your diary are 22 to 24 June, 2027. Finally, in addition to Kai Schliephake, we have interviews with Charles Bénard, a co-founder of French tech firm Hiboo, about using technology to manage mixed fleets, and with Francesco Quaranta, CEO of Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe), about the wider significance of the OEM’s pending change of name to Landcros. Enjoy the issue! Euan Youdale & Murray Pollok, Joint Editors

Printed by: Buxton Press ISSN:1352-7517 (print) ISSN 3049-4567 (online) © Copyright KHL Group 2026

Correspondence or comments should be sent to:

The Editor, Rental & Access International, Southfields, South View Road, Wadhurst, East Sussex, TN5 6TP, UK. +44 (0)1892 786214 | euan.youdale@khl.com

Rental & Access International is published eight times a year (January-February, March, April-May, June, July-August, September, October, NovemberDecember) and has a worldwide circulation of more than 31,500. Rental & Access International is only available to subscribers (IPAF members receive a free copy, details available on request). Annual airmail subscription rate US$182, €156, £130.

The paper in this magazine originates from timber that is sourced from sustainable forests, managed to strict environmental, social, and economic standards. The manufacturing mill has both FSC & PEFC certification, and also ISO9001 and ISO14001 accreditation.

RENTAL & ACCESS PORTFOLIO Special issues

Magazine

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Events

July-August 2026 | A KHL Group publication | www.khl.com

INTERVIEWS Ailsa Webb, CES Power

INCORPORATING

OCTOBER 2024 A KHL Group Publication

www.internationalrentalnews.com

p16

James Burchell, Groundforce

www.accessinternational.media

IRN100 EXTENDED 2024

The world’s largest access equipment rental companies

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O I CFE T O FHTE H E EE QQU U I P IMPE NMT E R ENN TTA LRI NEDN U STT A R YL I N D U S T R Y T H E V O I TCH EE V O

ERA, the European Rental Association, is the representative association of the equipment rental sector in Europe. ERA nowadays represents over 4,700

rental companies in Europe, either through 14 national rental associations or directly. ERA members receive a specially-modified version of KHL’s InternationalRentalNews (IRN) weekly e-Newsletter under an agreement between ERA and KHL Group. KHL is publisher of the IRN e-Newsletter and International Rental News (IRN) magazine, which is the official publication of the ERA. The ERA RentalWeekly e-Newsletter will contain all the stories in the IRN weekly, arranged to recognise the priorities of ERA members. The ERA newsletter also carries regular news from the association itself.

accessbriefing.com | internationalrentalnews.com

eRa NewS

tOP ReNtal StORy

Latest RentalTracker highlights cautious rental outlook in Europe

By ERA Secretariat The second quarter of 2013 saw a continuation of the cautious trend in Europe’s rental sector, according to the latest ERA/IRN RentalTracker survey for the second quarter of 2013.

ReNtal NewS

Latest RentalTracker highlights cautious rental outlook in Europe

By ERA Secretariat The second quarter of 2013 saw a continuation of the cautious trend in Europe’s rental sector, according to the latest ERA/IRN RentalTracker survey for the

SEPTEMBER 2026 RAI

WHAT’S INSIDE The official magazine of the International Powered Access Federation

KHL OFFICES

UNITED KINGDOM (HEAD OFFICE) KHL Group, Southfields, South View Road, Wadhurst, East Sussex TN5 6TP, UK. +44 (0)1892 784088 | www.khl.com/irn USA OFFICE KHL Group Americas LLC 11811 N. Tatum Blvd, Suite P118, Phoenix, AZ 85028, USA. +1 480 535 3862 | americas@khl.com CHINA Office KHL Group China Room 769, Poly Plaza, No.14, South Dong Zhi Men Street, Dong Cheng District, Beijing, PR China 100027. +86 (0)10 65536676 | cathy.yao@khl.com LATIN AMERICA OFFICE KHL Group Americas Av. Manquehue Sur 520, of 205 Las Condes, Santiago, Chile. +56 9 77987493 | latina-americana@khl.com

KHL SALES REPRESENTATIVES

VICE PRESIDENT SALES, ACCESS & RENTAL DIVISION PLUS IBERIA/KOREA BELGIUM/ ITALY Ollie Hodges +44 (0)1892 786239 | ollie.hodges@khl.com BRAND MANAGER, ACCESS & RENTAL DIVISION PLUS NORTH AMERICA Pete Balistrieri +1 414 940 9897 | pete.balistrieri@khl.com AUSTRIA/GERMANY/SWITZERLAND Peter Collinson +44 (0)1892 786220 | peter.collinson@khl.com FRANCE Hamilton Pearman +33 (0)1 45930858 | hpearman@wanadoo.fr CHINA Cathy Yao +86 (0)10 65536676 | cathy.yao@khl.com JAPAN Michihiro Kawahara +81 (0)3 32123671 | kawahara@rayden.jp THE NETHERLANDS Arthur Schavemaker +31 (0)547 275005 | arthur@kenter.nl SCANDINAVIA Greg Roberts +44 (0)7950 032224 | greg.roberts@khl.com TURKEY Emre Apa +90 (0)532 3243616 emre.apa@apayayincilik.com.tr UK/IRELAND Eleanor Shefford +44 (0)1892 786236 | eleanor.shefford@khl.com GLOBAL VP SALES Alister Williams +1 312 860 6775 | alister.williams@khl.com

MEMBERS OF

6 News

13 News report

36 Rental in Brazil

REGULARS

Aggreko files for IPO in US, UK imposes tariffs on Chinese MEWPs, ARA forecasts growth.

11 Andy Wright column

The flexible mindset required to succeed in modern-day business.

FEATURES

Rental companies and OEMs are boosting their revenues through the growth in data centres but is the sector masking weaknesses in other areas of business?

14 Interview IPAF

There are several ways to take part in European Rental Week - find out how.

Kai Schliephake has taken over the reins as IPAF president this year, alongside his full-time job as managing director of German rental company collective PartnerLift. Find out what plans he has for the federation.

46 IPAF news

16 Excavators

24 Access50

Annual listing of the world’s largest access rental fleet sizes.

41 ERA news

Response to UK tariffs on Chinese MEWPs, and IPAF’s latest Global Safety Report.

EVENTS 21 APEX/IRE

The co-located shows are set to be held annually, starting next year in Amsterdam.

23 European Rental Week The primary aim of the event this year is to increase awareness outside the rental industry. accessbriefing.com | internationalrentalnews.com

The latest on 10 to 20 tonne excavators, including some just-released machines.

30 Low level access

The sector is broadening, with manufacturers focusing on compactness, productivity and specialised applications.

João Guilherme at São Paulo family-run Giga Rental explains why it is focusing on indoor applications rather than traditional construction work, while KPMG provides market forecasts for the country.

43 Product report

Bobcat had multiple new launches and innovations at its Demo Days event in the Czech Republic earlier in the summer. Murray Pollok reports.

49 Interview Hiboo

Charles Bénard, co-founder and chief product officer at French tech firm Hiboo explains about its fleet management software, with users now encompassing both contractors and rental businesses.

ON THE COVER

34 Interview Hitachi

Francesco Quaranta, president and CEO of Hitachi Construction Machinery Europe, on changing the company name to Landcros.

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF

September 2026 | A KHL Group publication | www.khl.com

INTERVIEWS Kai Schliephake, IPAF p14

Francesco Quaranta, Hitachi

p34

Charles Bénard, Hiboo

p49

Shows go annual & move to Amsterdam p21

EXCAVATORS

Mid-sized workhorses

INCORPORATING

p16

Wacker Neuson’s new EW135 wheeled excavator, launched in September. See our excavators feature on page 16.

SEPTEMBER 2026 RAI

NEWS

Aggreko files for IPO in US

DIARY DATES

IAPA/IPAF SUMMIT 14-15 October, 2026 Istanbul, Turkey PLATFORM GÜNLERI 17-19 September 2026 Istanbul, Turkey PLATFORMERS DAYS 8-9 October 2026 Karlsruhe, Germany BAUMA CHINA 23 - 27 November 2026 Shanghai, China For more event listings, scan the QR code here or visit us online: khl.com/events

ggreko has publicly filed a proposed initial public offering (IPO) with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The filing said Aggreko would be traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the AGKO symbol, with various news sources estimating that the IPO could raise betwen US$15 and US$20 billion. The timing of the offering, the number of shares to be offered and the price range for the proposed offering have not yet been decided, said the company. The proposed listing would see it return to being publicly traded since it de-listed from the London Stock Exchange

ARA forecasts steady rental amid market pressures The American Rental Association has posted an unchanged forecast for the US construction and industrial rental market in 2026, with growth of 3.4% to US$83.5 billion. It has slightly increased its growth forecasts for 2027 and 2028 to 4.4% and 5.1%, respectively. The quarterly forecast is created for ARA by S&P Global. Scott Hazelton, managing director at S&P, said the US rental industry remained resilient but was subject to headwinds such as higher energy prices and the impact of inflation on interest rate policy. “One of the risks to the forecast is what is happening in the Middle East”, said Hazelton, “The war is not the problem for the US; the problem is the transmission of inflation through energy rates — both because of lower supply and because of the risk of transporting through the Strait of Hormuz.” Hazelton said higher inflation could limit federal reserve policies on interest rates; “and in fact we’ve seen housing starts fail to move and most recently the numbers we saw for construction spend and home improvement spending was down too.” The forecast for Canada is for the rental market to expand by 5.2% this year to US$6.3 billion, increasing to 5.4% in 2027 and 5.5% the following year. S&P said this growth was driven by infrastructure spending and oil field developments.

Aggreko PowerFlex 1500kW gas powered generators. IMAGE: AGGREKO

in August 2021. That de-listing followed its acquisition by private equity firms I Squared Capital and TDR Capital. In the filing, by its US entity Aggreko Inc, the company said; “Aggreko presents the opportunity to benefit from the structural growth in demand for global energy and temperature control.

APEX & IRE to become annual event from 2027 APEX and the International Rental Exhibition (IRE) will become an annual event for the international access and rental industries, with the joint exhibitions moving to RAI Amsterdam in 2027. The next edition takes place on 22–24 June 2027 and will bring the global access equipment and rental industries together in Amsterdam for three days of business, networking,

IN BRIEF ■ Volvo CE has started US production

of excavators and large loaders. The OEM is expanding its US footprint, resulting in more than 50% of its North American machine supply being produced at its Shippensburg, Pennsylvania facility. “This achievement advances Volvo CE’s long-term strategy to strengthen stability and flexibility across the North American market

RAI SEPTEMBER 2026

while supporting our employees and the regional economy,” said Scott Young, head of region North America. The expansion brings Volvo CE’s North American production portfolio to 30 machine models, including excavators, wheeled loaders and compactors. ■ HSS ProService Marketplace

and Cross Rental Services have

“We are a leader in a substantial and growing energy solutions market, estimated at $49 billion today and expected to grow to $66 billion by 2030. Americas and Europe are projected to have the highest growth potential.” The company has 14,000 customers in 80 countries and has 8,000 employees. RAI

signed a new long-term contract that will see ProService continue to offer its customers HVAC and refrigeration services from its online rental marketplace. Under the agreement, which, Cross Rental will work directly with ProService customers to recommend an appropriate solution. Cross Rental has nine branches in the UK and Ireland plus 70 engineers.

new product launches and industry insight. The move follows a successful 2026 event in Maastricht, which attracted more than 7,000 attendees and brought together 201 exhibiting companies – 215 including stand sharers – across APEX and IRE. RAI

NEWS OBITUARIES One of the founding fathers of the European access industry, Dick Schalekamp Sr, has passed away at the age of 95. Schalekamp, who in addition to his business achievements became a major figure in the community of Dordrecht, first became involved in the lifting industry in 1968 as part of the Netherlands operation of Richards & Wallington, a UK crane hire business. He took on the business in 1980 and renamed it Riwal, with aerial platforms added in 1986. Riwal subsequently became one of Europe’s largest MEWP rental businesses. Riwal was later acquired by Doron Livnat’s ProDelta Holdings business before being sold to Boels in 2024. Peter Ellis General Manager of Dingli Middle East passed away on 13 August, having spent most of his career in the access industry. He started at the UK’s Planet Platforms in the early 1990s and became one of the owners. He then moved to CTE UK before joining the Power Towers board at its formation and formed Power Towers Middle East as its general manager. In 2021 he joined Dingli, where the company said he, “he a lasting legacy for Dingli’s growth in the Middle East market.” In 2019 Ellis also become chairman of the IPAF Middle East Regional Council in 2019. IPAF CEO Peter Douglas said his dedication, professionalism and contribution to the powered access industry will be greatly remembered.

UK imposes tariffs on Chinese MEWPs

he UK government has introduced provisional anti-dumping duties of up to 71.74% on boom lifts imported from China. It follows a finding by the Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) that dumped imports of boom lifts had caused injury to the UK MEWP industry, after UK manufacturer Niftylift filed an application in December 2025. The measures took effect on 20 August, following a decision by the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade to accept the TRA’s provisional determination. Provisional duties apply to self propelled articulated and telescopic boom lifts, including spider lifts, that originate in

China with a maximum working height of 6m or more, and pre-assembled or ready-toassemble sections, including boom sections, chassis, turrets or turntables and platforms. The duties exclude individual components when imported separately. Rates vary significantly with Dingli facing the lowest provisional duty of 16.25%, while Lingong Heavy Machinery (LGMG) faces a rate of 64.25%. The two companies were individually examined in the TRA investigation, while nonsampled but cooperating Chinese exporters and producers will face a flat rate of 28.12%, (see the list below). For all other overseas exporters, a residual

For more information, including the provisional duties on specific OEMs, see the full story at accessbriefing.com provisional duty of 71.74% will apply. These latest UK tariffs come on the back of antidumping duties imposed on MEWPs entering the EU from China, with the European Commission concluding its investigation in April 2025. They followed similar duties introduced in the US in 2021. The provisional measures will remain in force for six months while the TRA completes its investigation, which could ultimately result in different definitive duties whether they be higher or lower. RAI

Sweden’s HLL to acquire crane rental company to create unified service Hyreslandslaget (HLL) is to acquire crane rental firm BinSell Sverige AB. The deal will add around 120 mobile and tower cranes to HLL’s general rental fleet. Under the deal, BinSell’s owners, Daniele Solito and Lars-Olov Johansson, will reinvest a significant portion of the purchase price in HLL’s parent company, HLL TopCo AB.

BinSell rents mobile, tower, crawler and truck-mounted cranes, and is active in the Stockholm-Mälardalen region, as well as in Gothenburg, Malmö and Uppsala. It will continue to operate under its existing brand with the same management team. The acquisition, plus that of rental company Herok in May this year, will increase HLL’s annual revenues from around

€66 million to €135 million. BinSell’s annual revenues are €42 million. Karl-Oskar Engström, CEO of HLL, said, “We have followed BinSell for a long time and have been impressed by the company’s development and strong market position. “Together, we can create a stronger customer offering, share expertise and identify new business opportunities.” RAI

DIGITAL NEWSLETTERS ⊲ After breaking the Southern California Timing Association’s (SCTA) record in the Blown Gas Streamliner class (AA/BGS, 500+ cu. in.) with a run of 368.347 mph in early August, JCB’s hydrogen-powered Hydromax went on to set a new world land speed record of 406.320 mph tat Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. It comfortably beat the previous FIA-officiated hydrogen internal combustion benchmark of 185.5 mph set by the BMW H2R in 2004. JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford said, “This record was set by production-based engines, the same engines powering JCB diggers right now. It shows hydrogen works, and it works today at the highest level.”

Get all the latest rental and access news straight to your inbox. If you are not already receiving these updates, please register by scanning the QR code or visiting: khl.com/register. SEPTEMBER 2026 RAI

NEWS PEOPLE NEWS Erik Olsson has joined the board of directors of Herc Holdings, parent company of Herc Rentals. Olsson, who will serve on the audit committee was previously president and CEO of Mobile Mini and its chairman before its 2020 merger with WillScot. United Rentals’ CEO Matthew Flannery has been ranked the 15th best leader of a large US company in Glassdoor’s ‘Best CEOs Awards’, based entirely on employee feedback. Glassdoor allows employees to rate their employer and its CEO award is founded solely on anonymous reviews. Skyjack has appointed industry veteran Dave Wanta as regional vice president of sales for southeast United States. Wanta returns to Skyjack from Dynapac North America where he was rental director.

Wittrock buys access rental business from insolvency

erman aerial platform rental and sales company WOBSKY has been acquired by the Wittrock Group, the German crane, MEWP and forklift rental business. The deal will see WOBSKY’s Wolfburg location, fleet and 15 employees transferred to Wittrock and the re-branding of the operation to WOB-TEC GmbH. The sale was organised

through insolvency specialist Schultze & Braun, which was brought in by WOB-SKY following a restructuring earlier this year. The managing director of WOB-SKY, Oliver Barth, will remain as operations manager under Wittrock’s ownership. “The acquisition of the Wolfsburg site and its highly qualified employees represents a further development of our business”, said Marcus

Wittrock and Oliver Herrmann, managing directors of Wittrock Group. “We are delighted to welcome our new colleagues, who will undoubtedly enrich our group. For many decades, we have specialized in the crane, forklift, and aerial work platform segment – a sector that thrives on maximum flexibility. “With this acquisition, we can now offer all of this on an even broader scale.” RAI

Mateco upgrades Germany facilities European rental giant Mateco has upgraded its facilities in Germany with extensive investment across locations in Rendsburg, Nuremberg, Alpen and Essen. The state-of-the-art upgrades are designed to create an

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS ■ EquipmentShare has reported another high-growth quarter on the back of large

project activity and a larger fleet. CEO and co-founder Jabbok Schlacks also provided comment on the structure of its OWN programme and involvement of the founders. Total revenues in the second quarter were up 26% year-on-year to US$1.45 billion, with rental revenues 39% higher at $908 million. EBITDA profit rose 34% to $531 million. The company added $750 million of new fleet during the second quarter and has opened 39 new locations since the start of the year.

attractive working environment for customers and employees. Overall, the work across the sites means customers benefit from shorter delivery distances, enhanced machine availability and superior support, added the company, while modern office, training and staff facilities provide contemporary, functional working conditions. Nuremberg, the previous branch and the Nuremberg-

West handover station have been consolidated into a single site. The Alpen branch has also moved into a modern new building. Rendsburg is now located with excellent connections to the regional transport. Site development in Essen is ongoing at the existing Essen-Karnap site, with a combination of new construction and extensive renovation of existing facilities. RAI

■ Wacker Neuson has published its half-year 2026 report, revealing that the

company had revenue amounting to €1,256.5 million (US$1.45 billion), an increase of 16.9% compared to previous year. The Germany-based OEM said that the first half of the year was driven by a significant demand recovery in Europe and North America, a strong development of compact equipment, as well as unchanged high cost discipline. “The first half-year 2026 marked a significant operating improvement for the Wacker Neuson Group. Our revenue growth led to an over-proportionate increase of the profitability,” said Dr. Karl Tragl, Chairman ■ Kennards Hire’s annual confidence survey found a softening of confidence levels

compared to 2025 in both Australia and New Zealand, although more than three quarters of the 617 respondents remain confident about the future of construction. Conducted for Kennards by YouGov, the survey was based on responses from 412 business leaders in Australia and 205 in New Zealand. Some 72% in Australia remain confident in the construction industry growth over the next five years, down from 89% in last year’s survey. Confidence levels in New Zealand were higher, with 84% described as confident, although that is down from 93% last year. This is the fifth year that Kennards Hire has conducted its confidence survey.

RAI SEPTEMBER JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 2026

Site development in Essen is ongoing. IMAGE: MATECO

IN BRIEF ■ JCB has made its LiveLink

telematics system standard on all mini excavators and site dumpers. It means the system is now available across the company’s entire construction and agricultural equipment ranges. LiveLink was previously offered as an optional extra with a three-year subscription on minis and site dumpers. It will now be fitted as standard.

■ Kubota North America announced

the expansion of its construction equipment manufacturing presence at its Great Plains Manufacturing subsidiary in Salina, Kansas, USA. A ceremony at the facility, attended by company officials and local and state representatives, marked the occasion. It will assemble its SVL75-3 compact track loader on the same line as the SVL65-2.

internationalrentalnews.com | accessbriefing.com

WRIGHT COLUMN Andy Wright on the flexible mindset that is required to succeed in the financial, commercial, technological and people-orientated business world.

Bendy men don’t break I

love this phrase; it’s one of my favourites! For me, it encapsulates one of the main components of what makes us successful, be that as an individual or as an organisation. It refers to flexibility, of course, and successful people and businesses are able to adapt, demonstrate resilience and go with change, rather than fight it. It’s also a good metaphor for the rental industry over the last twenty years, which has had to deal with unprecedented change on a never seen before scale. We have had to navigate a global financial crisis, survive through a once in a lifetime global pandemic, manage supply chain disruption, skills shortages, electrification, digitisation and the onset of AI as well as ever-changing customer expectations. It’s quite a list and the industry has come through it remarkably well, considering the rate of change. It’s an old saying, but it has never been more relevant to the rental industry. In rental, as in life generally, flexibility isn’t weakness; it’s the cornerstone of what creates resilience. It’s the creativity to make a deal work when it seems that you have reached an impasse; it’s the ability to meet the demands of business life today whilst still fulfilling all your promises to your customer and to your family; it’s seeing opportunity when others see barriers and hurdles that create a roadblock.

The big picture

It’s always being able to keep your focus on the big picture and not getting bogged down in the weeds or distracted instead of dealing with the critical aspects of what running a rental business is about. In fact, flexibility should be central to everything that we do in serving our customers and running a successful rental company. It should touch everything that we do and if it does it’s a powerful weapon in our armoury as we seek to win in this highly competitive landscape. Here’s a few areas that it really can make a difference: ■ Fleet flexibility – the ability to get in and out of different types of fleet profitably, investing in the equipment accessbriefing.com | internationalrentalnews.com

customers will need today and tomorrow, not running outdated technology and equipment which can’t solve customer problems. It’s also about being able to utilise the products within our fleet to create application-based solutions that add real value to customers operations. ■ Commercial flexibility – being able to offer finance options to customers such as offering rental or lease terms; providing a managed service or outcomebased solutions, such as fuel/energy management, remote monitoring, full installation solution, operators for large construction plant, rather than one rigid model. All of these help to make us easy to do business with. ■ Technology flexibility – this is an increasingly important area for businesses to have expertise. Technology supports both internal efficiency and performance gains and external customer-driven metrics such as utilisation of on-rent assets and carbon statistics, to name a couple. To achieve this, we need to embrace telematics, AI, automation and digital customer journeys, all of which requires a flexible mindset to adapt to new technology. ■ People flexibility – having a team of people who embrace change and run towards challenges is fundamental to being successful in today’s environment. It’s about developing leaders who empower teams and continuously learn rather than relying on “the way we’ve always done it.” That kind of rigid thinking ultimately leads to failure and disappointment. ■ Financial flexibility – solid financial management and well thought through capital allocation is a crucial competitive advantage over financially weaker players. Maintaining balance sheet strength

creates the ability to invest when competitors are retrenching and weak, delivering growth and market share gains. All of this has helped me to come to the conclusion that the strongest rental businesses aren’t necessarily the biggest— they’re the most adaptable. Strength comes from flexibility, not from rigidity. Trees that refuse to bend in a storm are often the first to snap. Those that move with the wind are still standing when the storm has passed. The rental industry is no different. The future won’t necessarily belong to the companies with the largest fleets. It will belong to those with the greatest capacity to adapt and through that adaptation, provide bespoke, value-added solutions to their customers.

Adapting to the times

Historically, the businesses that have continued to outperform have often shared one common characteristic. They adapt. They flex. They evolve before circumstances force them to. The irony in all of this, of course, is that rental itself is built on flexibility. We encourage our customers to avoid owning assets because their needs change. Yet sometimes, as an industry, we struggle to apply that same philosophy to ourselves. The companies that prosper over the next decade will be those that rent equipment with flexibility—and run their businesses with the same mindset. That is where competitive advantage will be found. Because in business, as in life, bendy men and women don’t break. RAI

ANDY WRIGHT is executive chair of Vital Power Group and an experienced senior executive in the rental sector. His career began in 1989, leading to roles including Managing Director Northern Europe at Aggreko, International Chief Executive of Lavendon Group, Managing Director UK & Ireland at Speedy Services and CEO of Sunbelt Rentals UK. JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 RAI

NEWS REPORT

The data centre effect The data centre boom is providing a major boost to US markets, while creating growing global opportunity. However, its success may be hiding weaknesses.

ontinued strong spending on data centre projects is masking weakness in other areas of the US construction and rental sector. That’s according to the latest analysis of new government data. Overall construction spending dropped 0.1% in June from the previous month and declined 3.2% compared to a year ago, according to analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America. Private non-residential construction increased 0.1% in June but was 4.7% down compared to June 2025. Private office construction, which includes data centres rose 2.8% in June and 15.1% on a year ago. But within that, data centre construction increased 46% over the past 12 months, while private office construction excluding data centres actually fell 11.6%. There was a similar story of decline in other private non-residential subsegments: commercial construction was 5.3% lower than a year ago in June, while healthcare construction fell 4.6% and educational construction declined 4.3%. Weak wider construction market Meanwhile, private residential construction declined 0.3% month on month in June and was 4.7% down compared to June 2025. Public construction was flat in June and 1.7% higher than a year earlier. The largest public category was 0.1% down on May but 3.1% higher than a year earlier.

AGC director of market insights Macrina Wilkins said, “We’re beginning to see weakness spread across much of the construction market. While data centres and a handful of other segments remain bright spots, the largest public category—highway construction—is at risk of a sharp decrease if Congress fails to renew federal funding before the current law expires at the end of next month.” The American Rental Association has posted an unchanged forecast for the US construction and industrial rental market in 2026, with growth of 3.4% to US$83.5 billion. It follows two consecutive increases. Scott Hazelton, managing director at S&P, which creates the ARA forecast, says data centres are helping to prop up the sector. Contributing factors “One of the risks to the forecast is what is happening in the Middle East”, said Hazelton, “The war is not the problem for the US; the problem is the transmission of inflation through energy rates — both because of lower supply and because of the risk of transporting through the Strait of Hormuz.” Hazelton added that the US rental industry remained resilient but was subject to headwinds such as higher energy prices and the impact of inflation on interest rate policy. Tom Doyle, ARA vice president, program

Microsoft data centre build in Wisconsin. (Image: Mark Hertzberg/ZUMA Press Wire)

accessbriefing.com | internationalrentalnews.com

development, expanded on the theme. “The rental revenue increase indicates the preference for renting over ownership. “The reasons are many for the growth, including the access to the equipment versus the asset ownership and the economics of renting. “While rental revenue has increased, the results are mixed. If you have any of the large infrastructure projects or data centre buildouts, you’re in a stronger market with generally better results.” RAI

A global view A typical data centre project will occupy hundreds – even thousands - of pieces of equipment for around two years, starting with items such as lighting towers and earthmoving equipment, moving through to aerial platforms, and ending with yet more lifts and specialist items such as load banks. It is what is driving a significant portion of business for the bigger rental companies in the US that can supply everything, and also the work of specialists like Aggreko, where around 18% of revenues in the first six months of this year were attributed to data centre work. The focus has initially been on the US, but more activity will be spready globally in the coming years. A just-published report by Allianz - The data centre construction boom: risks and claims trends - says overall investment will rise from the US$500 billion in 2024 to more than US$1 trillion next year. The US and China are expected to account for around 62% of additional capacity through 2030, says Allianz, while in Europe it is Germany, the UK and Ireland that are expected to remain major markets, with rapid expansion likely in Spain, Finland and Denmark. Across Asia Pacific, excluding China, installed capacity is projected to increase from around 9GW today to more than 28GW by 2030, with Malaysia expected to grow more than tenfold, making it one of the region’s fastest-growing AI infrastructure markets, alongside India and Japan Aggreko’s CEO, Blair Illingworth, speaking to investment analysts in mid-August, said the demand for data centres seen in the US is “very much heading towards Asia and Europe as we speak, probably with about an 18 month [timescale], something like that.” SEPTEMBER 2026 RAI

INTERVIEW: KAI SCHLIEPHAKE The new president of IPAF Kai Schliephake explores how safety, training and digitalisation are reshaping the powered access industry, and outlines his vision for expanding IPAF’s reach to a new generation.

Safety without borders

ai Schliephake has spent 25 years in the powered access industry, moving from the manufacturer side to rental and, now, to the presidency of the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF). He joined JLG in 2001 as managing director for Germany, Austria and Switzerland before moving to PartnerLift, where he is managing director of the Germany-based association for aerial platform rental companies. His appointment to IPAF’s AGM in June, where he took over the role from Karel Huijser, also formally from JLG, makes him the first German president of the federation, having previously been its first German board member.

Congratulations on becoming IPAF president in your 25th year in the access industry. Is the timing particularly significant?

Yes. I joined the access industry in 2001, so it is now 25 years. That makes it very special to become IPAF president at this point in my career. I started as managing director for JLG, and that was also where I first became very conscious of safety. Unfortunately, one of my former colleagues died and another was seriously injured just before. If you lose a very good colleague, or see somebody badly injured, it changes your mind about a lot of things you normally do regarding safety. It made me much more sensitive to safety activities. I also learned a lot from Reinhard Willenbrock, who was my predecessor at JLG and subsequently became IPAF’s representative in Germany. I came to recognise him as something of the ‘godfather of IPAF’. He showed me that the industry was not only about selling machines; it was also about working for safety.

RAI SEPTEMBER 2026

You have experience on both sides of the industry, first with JLG and then with PartnerLift. How does that help you as IPAF president? PartnerLift and IPAF have another important similarity: both are member organisations. You cannot simply behave like the big boss and tell everybody what to do. You always have to consider your members and take them with you. Without members, both organisations would be useless. We have a fantastic mission at IPAF, but we need to transport that mission through our members. The members bring different experiences and perspectives, and that is particularly important when we are talking about safety. Manufacturers, rental companies, operators and training organisations can all look at the same problem in different ways. IPAF provides the umbrella under which they can come together and discuss those issues without a commercial objective. That is one of the things that makes the organisation so valuable.

You have seen major changes in attitudes towards safety during your career. What stands out?

One thing I remember particularly clearly is the debate around harnesses. About 20 years ago, I gave a speech at a BBI [German rental and construction machinery association] meeting about

Peter Douglas, MD & CEO; Julie Houston Smyth, vice president; Kai Schliephake; and Pedro Torres, deputy president. wearing harnesses. At the time, it was not nearly as common as it is today. Afterwards, I was asked whether I wanted to destroy the rental industry because customers might cancel their rental contracts if they had to wear a harness while others did not. People were saying, “How can you do this?”. But my own experience also played a part. When I started with JLG, I was afraid of heights. It took some time before I was comfortable driving at say 20 m or 43 m. Once I had been trained and gained experience, I became much more comfortable. But at the beginning, wearing a harness made me feel much safer.

How much has the attitude changed towards safety over the last two decades?

Enormously. When I started 25 years ago, there were no harness requirements in machine manuals in the way they are today. Now, if you look at a machine manual, you will normally find very clear information about whether a harness is required. It is one example of how much more professional the industry has become. Training has improved, safety awareness has improved, and the whole industry has become more professional.

How do you see digitilisation developing?

Digitalisation is a major challenge and opportunity for the industry. And now AI is internationalrentalnews.com | accessbriefing.com

INTERVIEW: KAI SCHLIEPHAKE For me, becoming an IPAF trainer can be a fantastic final stage of a career, and I hope to see more of that.

IPAF reported record membership growth in its 2025 financial year, (membership grew by 8.6%, reaching 1,957 members across 83 countries). Family-run German rental company Wörlen, part of the PartnerLIft group, took delivery of a 100m working height Ruthmann Steiger T 1000 HF in January this year. coming on top of that. Some people say AI is simply another form of digitalisation. I think it is more than that, but it is certainly something we are going to have to deal with everywhere, including IPAF and PartnerLift. We are already seeing digital tools in areas such as service and maintenance. Technologies such as smart glasses have been around for years and may become increasingly important.

What does that mean for IPAF?

There is a lot of potential. For example, I believe that sooner or later we will see much more use of digital PAL Cards and licences rather than physical cards. The million-plus downloads of the ePAL app show the appetite for digital licences, but there are still mature markets where physical cards remain very common. If you start in a new country, I would say, ‘start digitally’. There is no reason to establish a new market around a physical card. The challenge is changing established markets. If people have used physical cards for 20 or 25 years, moving them towards digital takes time.

Does that also create challenges for trainers?

Absolutely. We have trainers who have been doing their job for 20 years using completely different methods. When I started with IPAF, training materials were printed. We had PowerPoint slides and flip charts. Now trainers are expected to use laptops and digital systems. For somebody who has trained in the same way for 20 years, that is a big change. At the same time, there is a fantastic opportunity here for people with decades of experience in the rental or access industry to become excellent trainers. accessbriefing.com | internationalrentalnews.com

The numbers are fantastic, but they are the result of a lot of hard work by the whole IPAF team working day after day. People such as the regional representatives are travelling around the world to promote IPAF’s mission. But the important thing is that safety is everywhere. If we can establish a training centre in a new country and bring training to people there, it makes a real difference. Safety is something you cannot stop at national borders.

What are your priorities as president?

There are several, but the broad priorities are very clear: international growth and increasing PAL Cards all over the world. I also want to see IPAF’s Toolbox Talks used more internationally. They are very familiar in the UK, but less so in some other markets. They are not a replacement for formal training, but they can be a very effective way of reinforcing safety messages. Another priority is making IPAF more attractive to younger people. I will announce my key initiatives at the IPAF Summit, taking place in October.

You mentioned the initiatives of previous presidents. What will you carry forward? Karin Godenhielm [IPAF President 202224) launched the Women in Powered Access initiative, which is very important, and we will continue. It is very valuable because it creates a place for people to share experiences as well as encouraging more women to take part in the industry. Karel Huijser’s focus on storytelling is another initiative I believe is important. We are already

Kai Schliephake officially became president of IPAF in June this year.

working on new stories, and that will continue.

Why is attracting younger people so important?

The industry has a major skills challenge. If you look at a construction site, it is not always the most obvious place to attract a young person. You are working outdoors in winter and summer, and it can be physically demanding. But technology can change that perception. We should be showing young people the technical side of construction and powered access: advanced machines, digital tools, AI and all the other innovations. There is another important point. Many young people want a job that has meaning, not simply one that pays money. Working in safety can give you that sense of purpose. At the end of your career, you can look back and think that you achieved something and made a difference.

Which international markets are particularly important for IPAF?

At the moment, I see four key areas: China, North America, India and Saudi Arabia. North America is particularly important. The US has always been a more difficult market for IPAF because its training structure and business model are different.

What makes the US different?

The safety level in the US is not below other markets. It may be the same or even higher. The challenge is the business structure. Training is delivered through OEMs in ways that are less common in Europe, where rental companies often have a more direct relationship with the end user. So IPAF has to adapt its strategy. We do not want to replace existing training structures. We want to cooperate with them and bring IPAF’s vision, mission and knowledge to the market.

What would IPAF like to achieve in the next 25 years?

We are active in less than half of the world, so there is an enormous opportunity in front of us. But we should never forget the central mission: never stop bringing safety to the people. Ultimately, the message is simple. Wherever you are in the world, people working at height deserve to go home safely. That is the mission. RAI SEPTEMBER 2026 RAI

EXCAVATORS

Mid-class flexibility

Rental & Access International (RAI) looks at some of the recently launched excavators in the 10t to 20t class size and what they mean for rental users.

ini and midi excavators may be one of the core products in most rental fleets, but wheeled and tracked machines in the 10 to 20 tonne sizes are also popular in rental. There is a lot going on in the sector, both with new models and new technology, such as autonomous operation and human detection safety systems. In some cases, it’s simply about extending a range. That’s the case with Wacker Neuson, which on 10 September unveiled its new EW135 wheeled excavator for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, moving up into the 13 to 15 tonne class, beyond its existing

Komatsu safety Komatsu is now providing a Human Detection System as an option on its PC170-11, PC210-11, PC24011, PC290-11, PC360-11, HB365-3 and PC490-11 excavators built in the UK. The system, developed with Safety Shield Global, integrates with the existing KomVision camera and on-board controllers, with a dedicated in-cab display and audible alert system giving operators immediate visual and audible alerts when a person enters a defined risk zone around the machine. “This collaboration with Safety Shield Global marks a clear step forward in delivering integrated solutions that enhance jobsite safety and give customers greater peace of mind,” says James Venerus, product marketing general manager at Komatsu Europe.

EW65 and EW100 models. The German OEM says the new machine is designed for modern rental fleets and professional users, with “high lifting capacities, digitalisation and the professional use of modern attachments”. It has a permanently installed adjustable boom without a swing bracket, which it says reduces power losses, increases stability and allows higher lifting capacities; “For rental companies, this results in a broad range of applications – from urban infrastructure projects and conventional civil engineering to applications requiring high lifting capacities and stability, such as lifting operations.” Attachment integration is enabled through the use of a MiC 4.0 interface, supporting the use of tiltrotators and other hydraulic tools. It is also approved for use with pallet forks. An electrohydraulic pilot control system controls movements, and the system allows the user to store operator and attachment profiles, enabling quick switching between different operators, a “particular advantage” for rental, says the OEM. To keep maintenance costs down, Wacker Neuson has designed in accessible maintenance points and digital diagnostics. Wacker Neuson says the EW135 “combines the performance of a machine designed for demanding applications with the flexibility of a modern wheeled excavator.

Flexibility & ease of use

The theme of flexibility and ease of use by multiple operators – in the rental context – is one that has also been taken up by Liebherr, which has both wheeled and crawler excavators in its 10 to 20t range of machines. Its Generation 8 hydraulic excavators, including the A 911 Compact and A 918

RAI SEPTEMBER 2026

Compact wheeled excavators and the crawler R 915 Compact G8, R 917 Compact G8 and R 920 Compact G8, models, have been developed “to meet the demands of modern construction sites”, says the OEM. The new range is designed for a vast range of applications, from traditional earthmoving, through pipework and sewer construction, to municipal tasks as well as gardening and landscaping work. The small rear swing radius of the A 911 and A 918 Compact wheeled excavators, as well as that of the R 915, R 917 and R 920 of the Generation 8 series, facilitate their use on confined building sites in built-up areas. All its new wheeled and crawler models in this class also use Liebherr’s INTUSI (intuitive user interface) operating concept, which the OEM describes as a “standardised and intuitive operating philosophy”. “[INTUSI] enables operators to get their machines up and running more quickly and achieve a high level of productivity right from their first day on the job”, says Liebherr, All the new models come with modern assistance systems and digital connectivity as standard. This opens up the opportunity for rental owners to manage fleets efficiently and plan service and maintenance intervals.

Cat’s Next Generation

Earlier this year, at the ConExpo show in Las Vegas, Caterpillar launched the latest of its Next Generation machines, the crawler excavator Cat 319, a new model in the 19 to 20t segment. It will form part of the company’s compact radius (CR) line-up, sitting between the 315 and 325 models. Caterpillar says the Cat 319 is based on a solid understanding of customers’ application needs, providing a internationalrentalnews.com | accessbriefing.com

EXCAVATORS

Autonomous Develon

Wacker Neuson’s new EW135 for the EMEA market expands its wheeled excavator range and has been designed to meet the needs of “professional users and modern rental fleets.” IMAGE: WACKER NEUSON undercarriage, and that undercarriage has 19-20t machine to meet customers’ toughest been put to use. challenges around transportation, lifting, “That width is all about extra stability”, safety and versatility. says Stellbrink, “For example, “Leveraging the familiar 317 Next Gen it provides the 319 with platform, the 319 provides similar or better the capability to handle capabilities while meeting the compact TRS17 – the rotation work radius expectations”, says tool attachment that aids Brian Stellbrink, senior precision and helps improve market professional at jobsite efficiency – as well Caterpillar. as a variable angle boom He says it has a (VAB) or blade, yet remains combination of features comfortably within the that make it suitable for construction, utility work, Hitachi’s ZX135-7EB is a 13t battery- maximum transport width of 3.0 m (9.8ft).” road maintenance and electric model. IMAGE: HITACHI CME Stellbrink says the land clearing jobs “while extra width, enhanced by the 2.2m (7.2ft) bringing all the benefits and attractions of track gauge, increases lifting capacity by the Next Generation platform to the CR 7% compared to the 317. There is also line-up.” the option to work with a 1m3 (1.31yd3) The model, which was first seen at Bauma general duty bucket. in 2025, is built around a wider, 2.8m (9.2ft)

Hyundai’s new HX210L is based on the HX230L but uses a Hyundai engine with a single wastegate turbo, rather than the twin-turbo setup of the larger model. IMAGE: HYUNDAI

accessbriefing.com | internationalrentalnews.com

Swiss contractor KIBAG has become the first in the world to make ‘real life‘ use of an autonomous Develon ‘Real-X’ crawler excavator. With construction leaders from Switzerland, France, Germany and South Korea looking on, the SX225LC-7X machine - a joint development with Gravis Robotics - was used to dig a 300m long, 3m deep trench as part of a project to restore a former KIBAG quarry. The use of autonomous construction machinery in public spaces is not yet clearly regulated, said Develon, but it was possible on private land with a technical supervisor. “Today is a special day for all of us“, said Christoph Duijts, CEO of KIBAG, “This is no ordinary machine handover, but a step into the future of construction.”

The machine is powered by a 99kW (133hp) Cat C3.6 engine.

22 tonner from Hyundai

The new 22t crawler excavator from Hyundai may be just beyond our selfimposed 10-20t range, but that’s no reason not to include it in the round-up. Launched at the Hillhead show in the UK earlier this year, the HX210L is based on the HX230L model that was introduced earlier, and it has been specifically designed to appeal to the rental market. It uses the design and cab features of all Hyundai’s Next Generation models and is powered by a Hyundai DX05 engine with a single wastegate turbo, rather than the twinturbo set-up on the HX230L. This gives a whay Hyundai decribes as “best-in-class“ 830Nm of torque, which is 6% more than the previous HX210A L. It also uses pilot hydraulic servo controls, rather than the full electro-hydraulic controls seen in the its larger Next Gen models. The system includes virtual bleed-off (VBO), which is an energy control system that combines an electronically-controlled main control valve and a central processing > SEPTEMBER 2026 RAI

www.ningos.com 宁格思

EXCAVATORS unit to optimise output flow and eliminate energy losses in the hydraulic system. Compared to its predecessor model, it offers better fuel consumption – 7% less fuel and 30% less AdBlue – and features a reinforced upper structure with upgraded swing bearing and higher torque. Its cab comes with a 12.8”, high-definition touchscreen.

K-Dive in Ukraine Kobelco’s K-Dive remote operation system, demonstrated at Bauma last year and developed in cooperation with Leica Geosystems and Xwatch Safety Solutions, is now being integrated into more models, from the 15/18 tonne SK140SR excavator and above. A first deployment milestone will be in Ukraine, before its commercial launch in late 2027. The first K-Dive unit is on its way to Kyiv where it will work on a clearance project that is expected to be ongoing by the end of the year. For the Ukraine project, Kobelco in Japan signed an MoU with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to verify the effectiveness of the technology earlier this year. Other on-site trials are currently underway with customers in Europe.

A battery electric model

Finally, a new battery electric model to round-off this review. Hitachi’s new ZX135-7EB is a 13t crawler excavator that expands the OEM’s range of zero-emission construction equipment. The OEM says the ZX135-7EB delivers a level of performance comparable to the ZX135US-7 diesel model. “Its exceptional versatility will boost utilisation and rental rates, helping to increase profitability.” The excavator can operate in two modes: battery-powered operation using 198kWh lithium-ion batteries, or wired grid assist mode, which allows the machine to continue working while connected to a CEE 400 V AC three-phase power supply. Hitachi gives an “indicative runtime” of 7 to 8 hours, and recharging times of 6 hours 9AC) and 1 hour (DC). It also has several programmable timer functions, including battery thermal management, AC charging, and cab air conditioning. And there are reduced maintenance costs compared to diesel-powered units, “The electric drive system, including battery status, can be monitored remotely.“ RAI

The A 911 Compact is one of Liebherr’s Generation 8 excavators. IMAGE: LIEBHERR Caterpillar’s 319 excavator is a 19–20t machine that fits between its 315 and 325 models. IMAGE: CATERPILLAR

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APEX/IRE

APEX/IRE 2026 in Maastricht attracted more than 7,000 attendees.

WHAT: APEX & IRE 2027 WHEN: 22–24 June 2027 WHERE: RAI Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Shows will become annual from June 2027.

APEX and IRE enter new era

PEX and the International Rental Exhibition (IRE) will enter an exciting new chapter in 2027, with the exhibitions moving to RAI Amsterdam and becoming an annual event for the international access and rental industries. Taking place 22–24 June 2027, APEX and IRE will bring the global access equipment and rental industries together in Amsterdam for three days of business, networking, new product launches and industry insight. The move follows a successful 2026 event in Maastricht, which attracted more than 7,000 attendees and brought together 201 exhibiting companies – 215 including stand sharers – across APEX and IRE. For 2027, the two exhibitions will be brought together in a combined hall at RAI Amsterdam, creating a more integrated visitor experience and providing greater opportunities for exhibitors and visitors. The move to Amsterdam will also significantly improve international accessibility. With Schiphol Airport providing direct connections to destinations around the world and RAI located just minutes from central Amsterdam, the organisers believe the new location provides the ideal platform from which to grow the international reach of the event.

delegations as well as dedicated initiatives for the next generation of rental and access professionals. The objective is to develop APEX and IRE beyond the traditional exhibition format and establish Amsterdam as the industry’s annual meeting place. James King, CEO at KHL Group, said, “Since 1996 APEX and IRE were instrumental in creating a genuine global community for the access and rental industries, but Amsterdam gives us the opportunity to take the events to another even-more global level. “Following overwhelmingly successful shows in 2026, our ambition is to create the industry’s primary annual meeting place – somewhere manufacturers, rental companies, buyers and industry professionals from around the world. Somewhere they can visit every year to see the latest equipment and technology, meet the people that matter to their businesses and understand where the market is heading.” “The move to RAI Amsterdam is an important part of that. There are direct flights from almost everywhere. It is a worldclass exhibition venue in one of Europe’s most accessible and attractive cities.”

More than an exhibition

International visitor development will be a major focus of the 2027 campaign. The 2026 exhibition already attracted a highly international audience, with strong representation from the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and the UK. For Amsterdam, the organisers will build on that European base while placing additional emphasis on attracting those from North America, the Middle East, Asia and other European markets.

The 2027 event will also see a significant development of the visitor experience. Alongside the exhibition will be an expanded programme of free educational content, exhibition theatres, product launches, live demonstrations and networking activities. Plans include a Welcome Party, Innovation and Product Launch programme, VIP and hosted buyer activities, international accessbriefing.com | internationalrentalnews.com

International growth

A dedicated VIP and international hosted buyer programme will form part of this strategy, supported by KHL’s international publications, databases and industry partnerships.

Priority for 2026 exhibitors

The new Amsterdam floorplan, released at the end of August, gives exhibitors from APEX and IRE 2026 priority access to stand locations before the wider sales campaign begins. Existing exhibitors will be offered 2027 Priority Exhibitor status, including price protection at 2026 rates until the end of September, priority stand selection and a package of additional marketing, product launch, video and hosted buyer opportunities. The Priority Exhibitor initiative has been designed to recognise the companies that have supported APEX and IRE and give them the opportunity to play a leading role in the next stage of the exhibitions’ development. From October, the exhibition will open to the wider market, with the organisers targeting companies across the combined APEX and IRE exhibition from key sectors, including advanced component manufacturers, aftermarket essentials, battery companies, telematics, among many others. King added, “Amsterdam gives us the opportunity to broaden the event. Alongside the world’s leading access and rental equipment manufacturers, we want to attract more technology, power, battery, component, software and service providers that are helping shape the future. “The objective is simple: one international marketplace, once a year, bringing the global access and rental industry together.” RAI SEPTEMBER 2026 RAI

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EUROPEAN RENTAL WEEK Rental & Access international (RAI) asked ERA secretary general Carole Bachmann about this year’s European Rental Week in October.

A big week RAI: This year’s European Rental Week will be the fourth. What are its main aims? Carole Bachmann: The primary aim is

to increase awareness of rental among audiences outside our industry. We want to reach potential customers, future employees, policymakers, media and the wider public. People working in rental understand the benefits of the rental model. However, many decision-makers, jobseekers and stakeholders may not fully appreciate the value rental brings in terms of flexibility, sustainability, efficiency and access to equipment. European Rental Week creates a common moment when the entire sector comes together to tell that story. By coordinating our efforts across countries and organisations, we can have a much greater impact than any company or association could achieve on its own. ERA provides a common framework, key messages and communication tools, but there is no single way to participate. Each company, association or stakeholder is free to adapt the initiative to its own audience, priorities and resources. This flexibility is one of the reasons why the campaign has continued to grow over the past four years.

Have the goals of the week evolved since its launch in 2023?

The core objective has not changed since the launch in 2023. We still want to raise awareness of rental and promote the value of our industry to a wider audience. What has changed is the scale and maturity of the initiative. We are now preparing the fourth edition, participation continues to grow and we see increasing engagement from national associations, rental companies and other stakeholders. We have also learned that simple, practical activities often have the greatest impact. Companies do not need to organise major events – they can if they wish. A customer success story, a depot visit, an employee profile or a discussion with local stakeholders can all help explain the benefits of rental to audiences who may be unfamiliar with our industry. accessbriefing.com | internationalrentalnews.com

How do you measure the success of the European Rental Week?

We do not measure success solely in terms of clicks, impressions or social media engagement. For us, success is also reflected in the number and diversity of organisations that participate. We are particularly pleased when companies use European Rental Week as an opportunity to engage with customers, schools, politicians, journalists or local communities. Every conversation that gives someone a better understanding of rental is a success.

Do you see a time when there will be more in-person activities? Social media remains an important tool because it allows organisations of all sizes to participate easily. However, some of the most powerful activities happen away from social media. When a company welcomes students to a depot, invites local authorities to discover its operations, or organises an open day for customers and communities, the impact can be very significant.

Is there a longer-term vision for the Week?

Our long-term vision is for European Rental Week to become an established event in the industry’s calendar and the recognised annual celebration of rental across Europe. In the coming years, I would like to see broader participation, not only from rental companies and national associations but also from manufacturers, customers, educational institutions and other stakeholders. Rental creates value across an entire ecosystem, and that ecosystem should be visible during the week.

Carole Bachmann, secretary general of the European Rental Association (ERA).

Looking further ahead, success would mean that the messages promoted during European Rental Week continue throughout the year. The Week should be a catalyst, not an isolated event. We are also particularly proud to see that some members of the Global Rental Alliance have started adopting the concept and adapting it to their own markets. Perhaps one day, we will no longer talk about a European Rental Week, but about a worldwide celebration of rental.

How do people get involved this year?

One important point is that European Rental Week is not reserved for ERA members, national associations or even rental companies. We welcome participation from all stakeholders who want to promote the benefits of rental. Participation can be as simple or as ambitious as organisations wish. A social media post, a customer success story, an employee interview, a depot open day, a school visit or a local event can all contribute.

A final word?

As an industry, we sometimes assume that people understand what rental does and the value it creates. In reality, many potential customers, future employees, policymakers and members of the public are still discovering the benefits of the rental model. That is precisely why European Rental Week matters. It gives us an opportunity to explain how rental supports sustainability, enables access to equipment and technology, creates skilled jobs and helps businesses operate more efficiently. RAI See the ERA’s news on page 41 for practical guidance on how to take part. See also europeanrentalweek.eu SEPTEMBER 2026 RAI

ACCESS50

The rental shift This year’s access50 shows continued

consolidation among the larger companies as the industry adapts to global challenges.

here has been a change at the top of this year’s Access50 listings of the world’s largest access equipment rental companies, ranked by fleet size. Chinese rental company Huatie has taken over first place from Horizon Construction Development. Horizon, which is also based in China, will be known to many outside the country for its ambitious expansion across Southeast Asia, Middle East and Africa in recent years.

It may therefore come as a surprise that its fleet size has dropped, while Huatie’s fleet has grown by 26% since last year’s Access50 listing, despite the challenging market in China, where the company operates.

Domestic investment

In 2024, Huatie was acquired by regional state-owned Hainan Development Holding, which has invested heavily in the company since, while Horizon saw its domestic sales

drop 17.4% year-on-year in the first half of this year and has been selling part of its used fleet outside the country. Beyond the swap in positions between Huatie and Horizon, the top 10 remains

AERIAL FLEET ’26 ’25 COMPANY 2026 2025 CHANGE 1 3 Zhejiang Haikong Nanke 229000 181600 26.1% Huatie Digital Intelligence & Technology (Huatie) 2 2 United Rentals 210000 205000 2.4%

TELEHANDLER FLEET 2026 2025 0 0 37000

36000

3 1

Horizon Construction Development

201000

216000

-6.9%

4 4 5 5

Sunbelt Rentals Loxam

149000 81658

145335 78673

2.5% 3.8%

30600 11961

30680 11392

-0.3% 5.0%

S,B 1434 S,B,T,M,H 1100

6 6

Herc Rentals (inc. H&E Equipment Services)

77250

75000

3.0%

18540

18000

3.0%

S, B

400

54601

6.9%

4016

3474

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S,B,T,M

817

49822

S,B

150

9 9

Boels Rental (inc. Cramo, 58381 Riwal & Manlift) Zhongneng United Digital 52856 Technology Aktio Holdings Corp. 43827

43617

0.5%

S,B,T

1071

10 10 11 11

Mateco Nikken Corporation

38340 32919

39000 31601

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4000 0

3500 0

14.3%

S,B,T S, B, T

180 248

12 12

Nishio Rent All

30857

29529

4.5%

6537

6256

4.5%

S,B,T

500

13 14

Kiloutou Group

27300

25341

7.7%

6980

6777

3.0%

S,B,T,M, H

648

14 NEW EquipmentShare

27000

8000

S,B

407

Japan Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand Europe, Mexico Luxembourg Japan Japan, USA, Thailand, Indonesia, Australia Japan Japan, China, Southeast Asia, Australia France, Denmark, France Germany, Poland, Portugal, Italy, Spain USA USA

15 13

26210

26050

4300

4720

S,B

113

USA

7 7 8 8

Sunstate Equipment

0.6%

CHANGE

FLEET (SEE KEY) BRANCHES S,B 380

2.8%

S, B

1470

S,B

581

-8.9%

AREAS OF OPERATION China, Korea

HQ China

USA USA, Canada, Farnce, Germany, UK, Netherlands, Belgium, New Zealand, Australia China, Malaysia, China Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Turkey USA, Canada, UK USA Europe, UAE, France Brazil, Morroco US, Canada USA Europe, UAE, Qatar, India China

Netherlands China

USA

NA = not applicable | Fleet details key: S = scissors; B = booms; T = truck mounts; M = mast climbers; H = passenger hoists; P = pusharound

RAI SEPTEMBER 2026

internationalrentalnews.com | accessbriefing.com

ACCESS50

’26 ’25 COMPANY 16 15 System Lift

AERIAL FLEET 2026 2025 23334 22104

CHANGE 5.6%

TELEHANDLER FLEET 2026 2025 1486 1402

17 16

PartnerLift

15844

14847

6.7%

1251

18 19

Renta Group

14445

12899

12.0%

19 18

Kanamoto

13784

13538

20 17

AJ Networks

13000

21 20

GAM

22 21 23 22

CHANGE 6.0%

FLEET (SEE KEY) BRANCHES S,B,T,M,H 141

1155

8.3%

S,B,T

607

580

4.7%

S,B,T,M,H 193

1.8%

200.0%

S,B,T

557

12800

1.6%

S,B, T

11800

11,600

1.7%

Mills Locacao, Servicos E 10879 Logistica Korea Rental Corporation 10665

11019

-1.3%

10900

-2.2%

24 NEW Zhejiang Angpeng Equipment Rental (UP-

10613

25 23

Rentals)

131

S,B,T,M,H 80 S,B, M

S,B

S,B S,B

-6.3%

AREAS OF OPERATION HQ Germany Germany, Austria, Poland, Switzerland, Netherlands, Italy Germany, Austria, Germany Switzerland, Netherlands, Romania Finland Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Poland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania Japan Japan, Australia, China, Southeast Asia South Korea, USA, South Saudi Arabia Korea Spain Europe, North Africa Middle East, South America Brazil Brazil Korea

Republic of Korea, China, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan China

China

China Netherlands Italy UK

9739

9352

4.4%

26 23 27 38 28 30

Dongguan Jiafeng Machinery Collé Rental & Sales Mollo MEP Hire

9450 9335 9152

9000 8100 7,400

5.0% 15.2% 23.7%

945 1870 0

900 1520 0

5.0% 23.0%

S,B,T,H 19 S,B,T,H,M 78 P 13

Europe Italy UK, Ireland

29 35

Acces Industrie

9000

8,460

6.4%

1559

1,471

6.0%

S,B

30 25

8800

8000

10.0%

#DIV/0!

S,B

31 32 32 26

Modern (International) Access & Scaffolding Sudhir Rentals Aver Asia

8165 8159

7,150 7606

14.2% 7.3%

404 100

355 86

14.0% 16.3%

S,B S,B

22 24

33 34 34 27 35 31

Summit Platforms Coates Speedy

7563 7500 7081

6502 7550 7,300

16.3% -0.7% -3.0%

502 1500

393 1500

9.0% 0.0%

S,B S,B S,B,T

11 150 200

France, France Belgium, Spain Hong Kong, Macau, Hong Kong Singapore, Taiwan India, KSA, UAE, UK India Singapore, Singapore Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar & Cambodia UK UK Australia Australia UK UK

36 28

6600

7500

-12.0%

S,B

China

37 40 38 36

Shanghai Liugong Equipment Rental Salti Briggs

6500 6400

6200 6000

4.8%

1449 1200

1380 1000

5.0%

S,B,T,M S,B

45 22

France USA

39 29 40 37 41 39

Equipment Depot Gruppo Venpa AFI-Uplift

6250 6104 5800

6000 5920 5633

3.0% 3.1% 3.0%

1000 789 78

936 761 76

2.90% 810.0% 2.6%

S,B 50 S,B,T,H,M 65 S,B,T,H 24

USA Italy UK

42 43

4500

4311

4.4%

1100

900

3.9

S,B

43 41

Cooper Equipment Rentals Star Platforms

USA Italy UK, UAE, KSA, Bahrain, Qatar Canada

4439

4717

-5.9%

S,B

44 63

Ban Ngai Rent (BNR)

4372

2200

98.7%

S,B

Malaysia

Thailand, Philipines, Malaysia, Indonesia

Canada

NA = not applicable | Fleet details key: S = scissors; B = booms; T = truck mounts; M = mast climbers; H = passenger hoists; P = pusharound accessbriefing.com | internationalrentalnews.com

SEPTEMBER 2026 RAI

ACCESS50 ’26 ’25 COMPANY 45 44 Kranpunkten i Båstad

AERIAL FLEET 2026 2025 4187 4214

CHANGE 3.7%

TELEHANDLER FLEET 2026 2025 71 73

46 42 47 45 48 46

Star Rentals Admar Supply Company Galmon Singapore

3900 3800 3500

3750 3650 3500

2.3% 4.1% 0%

525 600 0

500 574 0

6.6% 4.5%

49 47

Zeppelin Rental

3303

3200

3.2%

957

790

21.1%

S,B,T,M,H 200

50 50

United Equipment & Access Solutions

3060

3,005

1.8%

340

265

28.3%

S,B, M

CHANGE -2.7%

FLEET (SEE KEY) BRANCHES S,B,T, 8 M,H S,B 18 S,B 11 S,B 1

AREAS OF OPERATION Sweden

HQ Sweden

USA USA Singapore

Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Denmark, Norway, Netherlands, Slovakia, Sweden Australia

Germany

NA = not applicable | Fleet details key: S = scissors; B = booms; T = truck mounts; M = mast climbers; H = passenger hoists; P = pusharound

the same as last year, with US giant United Rentals retaining its second-place position between the two Chinese giants. The US rental sector has had a relatively strong year so far. In July, Herc Rentals became the third major rental business in the US to increase its full-year guidance in its latest quarterly results. The Florida-based company cited growth in its national accounts business, fuelled by “robust mega project activity”, as well as demand for its specialty rental products. Earlier in the month, both EquipmentShare and United Rentals raised their outlooks for the full year 2026 too.

NEW

FOR RENTAL Skyjack’s new models all provide the same simple, reliable choice for rental.

Diversifying fleets

An important point is the increase in investment in the specialty segment. Specialty rental – power, pumps and other niche products – notably not access equipment, outgrew United’s general rentals business in the quarter. This reflects a concerted effort by US rental majors to find an alternative to the cyclical construction market, and perhaps explains their relatively flat growth. There are are also three European rental companies in the top 10 - those being Loxam, Boels and Mateco. It has been a challenging year for rental in Europe, yet despite that those companies >

The survey ■ This survey was carried out via an e-mail and e-cast campaign in the two months leading up to the publication of this list. Companies with MEWP fleet sizes above 1000 units were asked to provide quantities of each platform type in their fleet, along with the other details shown in this listing. ■ Where figures are not available, an estimate has been made based on industry and regional trends.

skyjack.com/en-eu/simply-more

Australia

ACCESS50 have maintained growth in this year’s listing. For example, Boels Rental reported “close to flat” revenues in 2025, although sales were up 7.5% with the company continuing to benefit from the acquisition of Europe’s largest access specialist, Riwal, in 2024. René Olsthoorn, CFO at Boels, commented, “Although market expectations as reported by the European Rental Association are positive, global uncertainty in general and the war in Iran in particular may negatively impact economic activity.” Loxam felt the pressure of the war in Iran too, and and froze capital expenditure in its Middle East business, Rapid Access. One of the most notable rental stories this year was Loxam’s majority acquisition of South America’s largest rental company, Mills, which it said represents a strategic move to expand its presence in Brazil.

1 63 2 3 3 30

Ban Ngai Rent (BNR) Zhejiang Haikong Nanke Huatie Digital Intelligence & Technology (Huatie) MEP Hire

4 34 5 38 6 32 7 19 8 25 9 14 10 26

Summit Platforms Mollo Sudhir Rentals Renta Group Modern (International) Access & Scaffolding Kiloutou Group Aver Asia

4372 229000

2200 181600

98.7% 26.1%

9,152

7,400

23.7%

7563 9335 8165 14445 8800 27300 8159

6502 8100 7,150 12899 8000 25341 7606

16.3% 15.2% 14.2% 12.0% 10.0% 7.7% 7.3%

TOP 50 FLEET SIZES 2026

CHANGE

2025

2024

2023

2022

2021

2020

870658

7.1%

813108

707598

591727

504837

419499

417614

TOP 10 1141312

6.2%

1075148

928447

785167

686390

586104

572984

TOP 50 1565740

17.6

1330945

1200627

1194378

1090112

957825

850914

TOP 5

Asia potential

While we have not yet seen consolidation to any major degree among Chinese and other Asia rental companies, it will only be a matter of time as their rental models mature. On the subject, Ban Ngai Rent (BNR), which has the largest fleet growth in the

COMPANY

LARGEST FLEET % GROWTH AERIAL FLEET AERIAL FLEET 2026 2025 CHANGE

table this year, has an ambitious expansion policy and expects to grow its fleet to over 5,000 aerials by the first quarter of 2027. This, said the company, will place it among the top three in Southeast Asia.

As these markets continue to grow, we are likely to see more regional companies, such as BNR, growing in strength and more international groups investing in the Southeast Asia market. RAI

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LOW LEVEL ACCESS The sector is developing into a broader category, with increasingly specialised applications, as data centres provide ever greater opportunity.

LG has expanded its low level range with products aimed at different working environments. In North America, its latest push-around addition is the 1230P, while in EMEA the company has introduced the Nano 30CS and Power Tower CS confined-space models. It has also added the LiftPod, a manually operated folding machine aimed at front-of-house environments. The 1230P provides a 17ft 4in working height and a 440lb platform capacity. Its 28in x 33.5in platform and lightweight construction are intended for applications where access through doors and elevators and low floor loading are important. A vertical rail system provides platform protection, while auto-lock brakes engage when the machine is elevated. The confined-space machines address the need to reach overhead services where conventional access equipment is too large. The Nano 30CS has a 550mm x 550mm platform, a 4.95m working height and a

JLG’s Liftpod fixing a camera in a school hallway. Image: JLG

RAI SEPTEMBER 2026

200kg safe working load. It can raise an operator through a ceiling-tile opening to work in ceiling voids. The Power Tower CS has a 5m working height and 250kg working load, with a base-mounted platform and interchangeable basket. JLG is also addressing material handling at height with Power Tower attachments including a pipe rack and board carrier. The LiftPod, meanwhile, provides working heights of 3.2m or 3.5m through a manual folding design requiring no fuel, mains power or batteries. JLG’s Andy Menham, low level access business development manager – Europe, says future development is likely to include taller confined-space platforms while retaining the compact dimensions required in restricted indoor environments.

The 3219 micro SJ16E from Skyjack.

Residential work

Bravi Platforms has taken low level access into residential construction with the Residential 170. The push-around machine has a platform height of 1.7m and a 3.7m working height, while its 66cm width allows it to pass through relatively narrow doorways and hallways. Its 360kg weight is also intended to make it suitable for finished or sensitive floors. “The Residential 170 [was designed] to meet the specific needs of this expanding sector, combining safety, simplicity, and efficiency for indoor environments,” says Bravi CEO Pierino Bravi. Bravi says the machine can reduce operating times by up to 50% and ladderrelated accident risks by as much as 75%, citing European safety data. The company is targeting residential construction at a time when labour shortages and an ageing workforce are increasing pressure to reduce physical strain and improve productivity. Bravi has also expanded its Leonardo range with the Leonardo HD 430, positioned between the existing Leonardo HD and Lui 460. The machine offers a 4.3m platform height and 6.3m working height,

with a 760mm width, 680kg weight and 180kg capacity. It is designed for indoor environments and tight spaces, with zero turning radius, non-marking tyres and automatic pothole protection. For Axolift, the latest development is the P300X, its first outdoor-rated scissor lift. “Our goal is to strengthen our presence among rental companies by offering a versatile machine suitable for a wide range of both indoor and outdoor applications,” says Massimo Grossele, CEO of Axolift. internationalrentalnews.com | accessbriefing.com

LOW LEVEL ACCESS The Middle East is one such market, with data centre construction and major construction projects generating demand for machines covering a wider variety of applications. In markets such as the UK, where low level access is already established for maintenance, installation and facilities management, demand is more focused on equipment that is compact, lightweight and easy to transport, says Grossele.

A new strand

The Leonardo HD 430 from Bravi. A Genie GS-1932m in a print production facility.

The P300X can operate on slopes of up to 35% and has an IP55 rating. It incorporates pothole protection, forklift pockets and basket extensions on both sides, while retaining a low overall weight. Grossele says requirements vary significantly by market. Some favour machines that are “as compact and lightweight as possible”, while others want more versatile equipment capable of operating indoors and outdoors and accommodating two operators. accessbriefing.com | internationalrentalnews.com

One of the most significant developments in the sector is the emergence of micro scissors as a distinct low level access option. Rather than simply being smaller versions of conventional scissor lifts, these machines combine powered elevation and driving with exceptionally compact dimensions. Genie has developed its micro scissor range alongside slab scissors and vertical mast lifts. Its GS-1432m and GS-1932m machines can be fitted with an Integrated Access Deck, providing an additional 19.7in of height for reaching into restricted overhead spaces. Genie’s Corrado Gentile, product director for scissors and verticals, says there is “a growing demand for low level access that can lift people and material higher”. At the same time, there is “less of a focus on equipment that can carry two operators, and more of a focus on compact equipment with the capacity to lift a single operator along with all of the necessary materials and tools.” Genie’s Lift Guard Zone Lighting uses red laser beams to create a visible perimeter around the machine, while Lift Guard Sense provides progressive warnings of overhead obstructions, slows machine functions as an obstruction approaches and can ultimately cut off functions. Skyjack is also expanding the micro scissor category with its SJ3213 micro and SJ3219 micro models. The machines use front-wheel electric drive, providing quiet, zero-emission operation. Their compact dimensions allow them to enter passenger-style elevators, while their platforms provide substantial floor space for the micro category. A telescoping extension deck increases usable platform area, while low gross vehicle weight and floor loads are intended to minimise the impact on finished floors. Skyjack’s vertical mast range, including the SJ12 E, SJ16 E and SJ20 E, provides another route into low level access. Electric drive gives controllability and gradeability, while the rigid multi-stage cylinder mast is intended to reduce maintenance. The mast top aligns with the platform rails, which is

The P300 is set to strengthen Axolift’s presence among rental companies. useful when working beneath suspended ceilings. Haulotte entered low level access in 2022 with its Move Up and Swift Up ranges, covering push-around and self propelled equipment below 6m. Its current pusharound offer is centred on the Quick Up range. The company says the key characteristics of low level access remain “compact dimensions, low weight, ease of use and ease of transport”. These are particularly relevant indoors, where machines have to move through buildings, operate on sensitive floors and be repositioned frequently. Haulotte sees a shift away from selecting equipment simply because it reaches a particular working height. Customers increasingly expect machines to deliver mobility, versatility and productivity across a wider range of applications. “Low level access is becoming a broader proposition than simply reaching low working heights,” Haulotte says. “Customers increasingly expect compact equipment to deliver mobility, versatility, ease of use and productivity across a growing range of applications.” Electrification is important for indoor use, but productivity and total cost of ownership are also becoming significant purchasing criteria, alongside low maintenance requirements and ease of operation

Safety and productivity converge

The wider trend is towards equipment that replaces ladders not merely because it is safer, but because it can make repetitive work more efficient. JLG’s Mirco Negri, senior product manager – specialty equipment, identifies the search for ergonomic alternatives to ladders and scaffolding, restricted working environments and environmental > SEPTEMBER 2026 RAI

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LOW LEVEL ACCESS involve congested spaces and overhead services. Genie identifies North America and Europe as its strongest markets for lowlevel access, with data centre construction a major contributor. It is also seeing increasing demand from India, China and the wider Asia-Pacific region. JLG similarly points to large-scale investment in data centres as a factor behind the expansion of low level access. Axolift sees the same effect in the Middle East, where new facilities generate demand during construction and subsequently for maintenance.

considerations as major influences. “Low level lifts are designed and purposebuilt to reduce strain on the body and lessen the risk of musculoskeletal injuries caused by repetitive movements,” Negri says. The ability to work hands-free is another distinction. On a ladder, an operator may need one hand for stability; on a platform, both hands can be used for the task. Low level access machines can also be lowered and moved between work areas, to perform mulitple taks in less time, adds Negri. The physical environment is equally important. Hospitals, universities, offices, retail premises, museums and data centres increasingly require quiet, compact machines that can operate around occupants and sensitive infrastructure. Battery-electric and manually powered equipment can reduce noise and, in some applications, eliminate direct emissions.

A broader category

But the market is not dependent on data centres alone. Manufacturers cite hospitals, warehouses, logistics facilities, retail outlets, airports, museums, restaurants, cafes, education buildings, hospitality venues and general facilities management. Fit-out and finishing work are particularly suited to compact access because machines are repeatedly repositioned and often have to work around completed interiors. As a result equipment buyers are expecting

Data centres drive demand

Data centres have emerged as one of the strongest growth applications. Construction requires electrical installation, cabling and HVAC work, while completed facilities require continual maintenance. Both phases January-February 2026 | A KHL Group publication | www.khl.com

New rental models Interviews with MEP Hire, Omni & HSS ProService MANAGEMENT Jeff Eisenberg on restructuring and refinancing 2026 OUTLOOK Forecasts for 2026 and tariff impacts SHOW PREVIEWS

January-February 2026 | A KHL Group publication | www.khl.com

New rental models Interviews with MEP Hire, Omni & HSS ProService

INCORPORATING

MANAGEMENT Jeff Eisenberg on restructuring and refinancing

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF

2026 OUTLOOK Forecasts for 2026 and tariff impacts SHOW PREVIEWS

INCORPORATING January-February 2026 | A KHL Group publication | www.khl.com

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF

New rental models Interviews with MEP Hire, Omni & HSS ProService MANAGEMENT Jeff Eisenberg on restructuring and refinancing 2026 OUTLOOK Forecasts for 2026 and tariff impacts SHOW PREVIEWS

INCORPORATING OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF

JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026

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more from the OEMs. As Haulotte points out, “What is clear is that low level access is becoming a broader proposition than simply reaching low working heights. “Customers increasingly expect compact equipment to deliver mobility, versatility, ease of use and productivity across a growing range of applications. “This is changing the role these machines can play within an access fleet and, more broadly, the place compact access can take within a complete access offering.” The result is a more diverse sector of pusharounds, vertical masts and micro scissors now offering solutions for every task across an array of applications. RAI

Haulotte’s low level range.

INTERVIEW HITACHI EUROPE

What’s in a name? For a company whose

Quaranta says that he wants more technology to be factory-fitted on their equipment in the future.

reputation has been carefully built over decades, changing the name on the side of a piece of equipmment is no small matter.

A forced opportunity

Italian-born Quaranta joined HCME two years ago and says he found “the biggest uncut diamond”, alluding to the vast potential of the company. He suggests that the impending move away from the Hitachi name forced the company to develop itself in a way it might not otherwise have done. “If we were not naturally pushed by this fear [of the change], maybe we would not

RAI SEPTEMBER 2026

ALL IMAGES: HITACHI

itachi Construction Machinery (HCM) is preparing for the transition to Landcros, a change that will see one of the best-known names in construction equipment replaced by a new global corporate brand, effective April 2027. The change is happening because HCM is no longer part of Hitachi Ltd in the same way as it was previously. For Francesco Quaranta, president and CEO of HCME, the shift carries obvious risk. However, in a wide-ranging video interview where he is refreshingly honest and talkative, he contends that it is also an opportunity. “For us, technically, it doesn’t change anything,” he says. “We’re still the same company. We are still the same equipment, the same quality, the same people.” In Europe, Quaranta wants the new name to be attached to a sharper commercial strategy. He describes the Landcros transition as a chance to reposition the business around factory-integrated technology, increased customer choice and stronger dealer support. “There is always a sense of fear when you change,” he says. “But people do not buy the name. People buy what that means; behind every name is a substance. That’s what we are counting on.”

have challenged ourselves the way we are,” he says. That is why, for Quaranta, Landcros is not simply a new name. It is also a change in how they operate as the company starts to position itself around more technology, services, data and lifecycle support.

Choosing where to compete

Quaranta is clear that he does not intend to chase every part of the European construction equipment market. He divides the customer base into different groups, including contractors, rental companies, waste and recycling, and landscaping. But he is focused on professional contractors, OEM and dealer-led rental, mid-sized contractors and key accounts – customers who, he argues, understand total cost of ownership, uptime, residual value and the importance of technology. At the other end of the market are lowerutilisation customers, for whom the upfront purchase price is the main consideration. “That’s a typical target customer for

Chinese manufacturers,” he says. “I have no intention to go after that.” It is a notable comment at a time when Chinese OEMs are expanding into Europe, often with attractive pricing and an expanding product range. Quaranta’s answer is not to compete just on upfront cost, but to make the machine part of a wider package. He argues that the excavator itself risks becoming more of a commodity over time. That makes the surrounding value – technology, support, financing, dealer capability – more important than ever. “The machine by itself will become a commodity,” he says. “The tagline of Landcros will be ‘solutions beyond machinery’.”

Factory-fit technology

The most concrete expression of that strategy is found in Amsterdam, where HCME is turning its operation into what Quaranta calls a “European customisation centre”. The idea is to allow customers to order machines already fitted with the technology they want, from the providers they want, internationalrentalnews.com | accessbriefing.com

INTERVIEW HITACHI EUROPE

There is always a sense of fear when you change. But people do not buy the name. People buy what that means - behind every name is substance. That’s what we are counting on. Francesco Quaranta rather than relying on dealers to install systems after delivery. “What happens today is that our dealers are almost in the Harley-Davidson business,” he says, smiling – a reference to the way machines are customised after purchase. “They buy a machine and then have to add expensive technology themselves as dealers.” Under the new approach, HCME will factory-fit technology packages including quick couplers, tiltrotators, 2D and 3D machine control systems, safety systems and, in time, autonomous capabilities. To facilitate this, HCME has signed Strategic Partnership Agreements with several technology providers, including Trimble, Leica, Rototilt and Engcon. That matters, he argues, because customer preferences vary by country and application. One system may be strong in France, another in Scandinavia. Rather than forcing a single technology ecosystem onto the customer, the plan is to keep the platform open. “I don’t want to tell the customer, ‘you need to like this’, because they will have a accessbriefing.com | internationalrentalnews.com

The new Landcros name and branding will come into effect in April 2027. very strong opinion on which one they like,” he says. “I’m making this factory flexible enough to be able to fit all of them.” The first prototypes have already been delivered to dealers, with start of production planned from October. Construction’s adoption of technology is faster than many give it credit for, while also being slower than its advocates would like. Quaranta says the market for advanced assistance systems remains relatively small and is concentrated in countries such as Denmark, UK, Sweden, Finland and Germany. The barriers, he argues, are not only technical. Construction is still a largely conservative industry and Quaranta says that customers are concerned about whether they have enough skilled operators to use advanced systems, whether the technology will be supported properly if something breaks, and if the return justifies the (often considerable) investment. HCME’s answer is to reduce these barriers. Quaranta says that technology could be built into financing packages, with customers paying later once they have seen the benefits. Machines could also be sold with operator training included, while HCME would act as the single point of contact. “The package is one package,” he says. “You talk to us and we deal with everybody else.”

Francesco Quaranta, president and CEO of HCME.

On autonomy, Quaranta says that he sees strong potential, but mainly in repetitive, defined applications. Quaranta says the company is preparing to ship machines with autonomous technology installed to customers for testing. When Quaranta joined HCME the company’s machines were already connected and producing data, but the business was not yet doing enough with that information. He was able to hire a whole AI team when another company left Amsterdam – “I was able to go from zero to a big team in no time. Those things happen once in your lifetime; sometimes you have a jackpot” – and they have developed an internal AI tool. The first focus, he says, is predictive maintenance, faster support and helping customers understand when and why a machine may fail.

Different name, same substance

The name on the machines is going to change and, given that Hitachi is a globally recognised brand, this is not insignificant. Quaranta’s argument is that the substance behind it is not, but he also knows that ‘same machine, new name’ cannot be the whole story. In a European market facing tougher competition, more demanding customers and faster-moving technology, HCME has to take the opportunity of a new name to also change and modernise the way they operate. The goal is clearly to have the same reliability with more technology and solutions. There will be factory-integrated technology, open choice of systems, better use of data and increased dealer support. Regarding the dealers he says, “I will expect my dealers to be able to raise the bar in the future. The most valuable asset that we can bring to the market is the level of support that you can deliver, from product to services to technology. That’s where we need to grow together with our network; we will grow our machines and have our network grow with us.” It is a big shift to change names, but it seems to have given the company permission to move faster than it might otherwise have done. The future is still orange, but it’s one where the focus is as much on the technology options and solutions as the equipment itself. RAI SEPTEMBER 2026 RAI

BRAZIL REPORT

ão Paulo-based Giga Rental has deliberately taken a different route through Brazil’s access rental market to the more common construction sector. With around 700 MEWPs, the family-owned company focuses on indoor applications, particularly industry, logistics, exhibitions and events. Founded in 2004 by João Guilherme’s father Reneo, Giga is derived from the first two letters of his brother’s names Giovanna and Gabriel, who are also part of the business. The company began with used Genie scissor lifts at a time when powered access was still a relatively new concept in Brazil. Today, the family business has a fleet of around 700 machines and remains focused exclusively on MEWPs. João Guilherme has spent 15 years

JLG, Genie and Haulotte boom lifts at an event fit-out - a staple part of Giga’s business.

Report highlights Brazil potential Brazil’s equipment rental market is forecast to grow by 7% this year and next, and is expected to reach a total value of R$56.7 billion (€8.8 billion) by 2027. The forecasts come from a new report by KPMG commissioned by Brazilian rental association ANALOC - which is the first such detailed report into Brazil’s fast-growing rental market. Among other findings, the study reveals that Brazil’s rental market is larger than major European rental markets including the UK, Germany and France, and almost twice the scale of the total Nordic rental business. The report forecasts that Brazil will experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11% between 2022 and 2027. It said the sector has more than 50,000

RAI SEPTEMBER 2026

Avoiding the ‘price war’ João Guilherme at Brazil’s family-run Giga Rental

explains why it is focusing on indoor event rental rather than traditional construction work. working full-time in the company. His father remains involved, maintaining the family ownership structure that has shaped Giga’s approach to investment and equipment. “I started here and this is my first job,” João Guilherme says. “Everything I know is here.” The company operates from a single main facility around 40 km from central São Paulo and covers a radius of approximately 200 km. Rather than pursuing a nationwide footprint, Giga believes its location gives it access to one of Brazil’s most concentrated industrial markets. “We are close to the main highways, which is very important,” says João Guilherme. “We are around 20 km from the biggest road centre connecting the different parts of São Paulo state.” He estimates that around half of Brazil’s GDP is generated within 100 km of Giga’s base, reinforcing the decision to remain regional. “There is no need for us to broaden out

from this area,” he says. “We have plans for new facilities and branches, but we will remain local.”

rental companies, with construction representing 60% of market activity.

in¬frastructure projects, industry modernization, and the global trend of replacing ownership by rental.” Included in the report is a detailed breakdown of the rental fleets in Brazil, by revenue and by fleet size. For example, there are an estimated 75,000 excavators in Brazil’s rental fleet and 55,000 larger dump truck type machines, as well as 50,000 aerial platforms, 1,000 telehandlers and 50,000 generator sets. Of the current R$49 billion €7.6 billion) rental market, around 50% is generated by ‘yellow line’ machines, while industrial forklifts, aerial platforms, scaffolding, hoists and tower cranes represent a combined 25% of the total market.

Using ERA methodology

The study has been conducted using the same economic methodology that KPMG uses on its reports for the European Rental Association (ERA), making the figures directly comparable. Paulo Esteves, president of ANALOC, called the publication a “historic step” for the industry in Brazil; “Global trends driving rental growth have reached Bra¬zil. “Factors such as prioritizing capital allocation in the core business, greater operational flexibility, access to new technologies, and increased customer productivity have contributed to the segment’s increased penetra¬tion outside of construction. “The study’s projections indicate that the market will continue to expand in the coming years, sustained by

Indoor specialists

That regional focus is matched by a very specific customer strategy. Around 95% of Giga’s fleet is electric and the company concentrates on industrial sites, logistics centres, exhibitions and events rather than construction. Around 70% of the fleet consists of scissor lifts, with the remaining 30% made up of boom lifts ranging from 8 m to 28 m working height. “We are focused on industry, exhibition and event build-ups, and logistics centres,” João Guilherme explains. “Our core business is to send machines to indoor environments.” Indeed, the company’s indoor philosophy extends beyond the customer. Giga keeps its machines inside its own facility when they are not working, rather than storing them in an outdoor yard.

Report widely welcomed

The report was widely welcomed throughout Brazil’s construction and rental market. Monica Zambolini, president of ALEC, the association that represents the smaller equipment segment of the rental market in the internationalrentalnews.com | accessbriefing.com

BRAZIL REPORT

The policy is part of a broader approach to equipment preservation. Machines return to headquarters for preventive and corrective maintenance, where Giga’s technicians can inspect, repair and refurbish them before they are sent back into the market. “When you take care of your machines, you can use them for longer,” João Guilherme says. Although Giga’s focus is on buying new equipment, some of its units bought in 2010-12 are still working today, meaning Giga is comfortable operating machines for considerably more than 10 years, while maintaining a high level of quality. Construction is not excluded, but Guilherme says it is not the company’s preferred environment. He believes industrial and logistics customers generally place greater emphasis on equipment condition, documentation, certification and operator training. “In construction, the focus is often more on cost,” he says. “An industrial or logistics

country, writing in a forward to the report, said the growth in the industry over the past 15 years had been remarkable. “To grasp the scale of this progress, consider that in 2012 Brazil hosted roughly 4,000 light-equipment rental opera¬tions. Today, that number has surged to over 30,000 busi¬nesses nationwide”, wrote Zambolini. “This growth goes far beyond volume — it reflects skyrocketing economic significance, massive job generation, and a direct impact on national infrastructure and civil construction.” Paulo Esteves, president of ANALOC, said the report represented a “historic step” for the industry in Brazil.IMAGE: KHL GROUP

Five technicians for 700 machines

Events and exhibitions can require 20 or 30 machines for a single weekend, creating major logistical demands. Giga may deliver dozens of machines on a Friday and collect them again on Monday. The rates can be higher, but João Guilherme says price is not the only reason Giga targets this segment. Customers expect absolute reliability. “If they need the equipment at 10am or 10pm, it must arrive then,” he says. “It is like a wedding photographer. If I am delayed for the wedding, it is too late. There is no leeway.” That precision helps generate repeat business and recommendations, which João Guilherme considers more valuable than competing aggressively on price. “We do not fight on price,” he says. “We

are more focused on performing well than on price.” A key element of that performance is Giga’s in-house technical capability. The company has five technicians supporting a fleet of around 700 machines – less than one technician for every 100 units. João Guilherme says this is considerably leaner than the wider rental market, where having one technician for around 25 machines is common. OEM representatives visiting Giga are often surprised by the ratio. But João Guilherme argues that the relatively small technical team is possible precisely because of the company’s high level of in-house expertise and its rigorous approach to equipment preparation. “We do the homework,” he says. “When you do good maintenance in-house before sending the machine to the customer, you are less likely to have surprises at the workplace.” Rather than relying on technicians to resolve frequent problems in the field, Giga aims to identify and address issues at its headquarters before the machine is dispatched. “If you keep an eye on the machine and control it very closely, you are going to be closer to perfection,” João Guilherme says. The approach is also closely connected to the family ownership model. “When you are in a family company and you are the decision maker, it makes a big difference to how you view your equipment,” he says.

Focus on quality

Giga’s strategy is being tested by a difficult Brazilian rental market. João Guilherme says the past two years have seen increased

Market dynamics, 2022-2027 [million R$, CAGR 22-27%] 11%

33,332

2022

39,765

2023

45,129

2024

49,435

2025F

52,951

56,716

2027F

Source: ANALOC

Giga equipment out on delivery.

centre is much more demanding about the quality of equipment and the company that supplies it.” That makes Giga’s service proposition particularly relevant. The company operates its own trucks and its drivers are trained by OEMs. They can deliver the machine, provide operator familiarisation and issue Giga’s own training certification. While João Guilherme points out that Brazil does not have a unified certification framework like IPAF’s, Giga places considerable emphasis on operator training, and the company joined IPAF in July 2026. The company’s customer mix also creates a specific rental model for the company. Less than 30% of its business is long-term, with a significant proportion coming from shortduration projects.

SEPTEMBER 2026 RAI

2026F

Forecast growth in Brazil’s equipment rental market, from KPMG’s report for ANALOC.

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BRAZIL REPORT competition from new rental companies and a growing influx of Chinese equipment. Some new entrants have started with only a handful of machines, while other companies that previously operated in different equipment sectors have added MEWPs to their fleets. At the same time, larger rental companies have been buying new Chinese machines and disposing of older equipment. That has created a growing second- and third-hand market, putting additional pressure on rental rates. “The rental rates have dropped over the last two years for sure,” says João Guilherme. Giga’s utilisation has consequently fallen to around 40%, compared with 60% or more previously. But the company has chosen not to follow the market down. “I like to keep my machines at the facility rather than fighting on price,” João Guilherme says. “I need to pay the bills, but I also need to reinvest, buy spare parts, replace batteries and tyres and carry out maintenance.” He argues that rental rates need to reflect the cost of keeping a fleet in good condition and replacing equipment over time. Companies focused simply on securing a payment at the end of the month can create problems for the wider market, he suggests. Giga continues to benefit from longstanding customers who value its service and are prepared to pay accordingly. The challenge is winning new customers whose expectations have changed with the arrival of lower-priced alternatives.

The decision followed around five months of discussions, including visits from Zoomlion’s sales and technical teams. João Guilherme also travelled to China to visit the factory and examine its processes. “We wanted to be confident that they were entering the Brazilian market in a serious way,” he says. “That is why we decided to invest in them.”

The next investment

João Guilherme believes the arrival of Chinese manufacturers has ultimately benefited the market by forcing established manufacturers to reconsider how they serve customers. “Ten years ago, the Chinese brands were lower quality and they did not have the parts, service and aftermarket,” he says. “Now they are very advanced, with new technologies, new ways of doing things and heavy investment in R&D.” He also believes the changing supply of equipment is contributing to a structural shift in Brazil. Fewer new hydraulic machines are entering the market, while large numbers of older machines remain available, often at much lower prices. Despite the company’s continued preference for new equipment, Guilherme

Growing the fleet

From left: Gabriel, Giovanna and Reneo, alongside interviewee João Guilherme. accessbriefing.com | internationalrentalnews.com

A pair of Giga Rental’s Zoomlion scissor lifts.

ALL IMAGES: GIGA RENTAL

Giga’s fleet today includes Genie, JLG, Haulotte, Manitou and Zoomlion. The company began investing in Zoomlion machines in 2022 and now has around 150160 units from the Chinese manufacturer.

is not currently planning a major fleet expansion. “I have every size and every height in stock already, so it is not the time to buy new equipment today,” he says. That decision is partly due to market conditions and partly down to Giga’s regional structure. National rental companies can move machines between regions if rental rates fall in one market. Giga, with its single main operating base, does not have that flexibility. “If rental rates drop in São Paulo, the big companies can move equipment to another region where rates have not fallen as much,” says João Guilherme. “We don’t have that option, so my strategy is to wait before buying new equipment.” Broader economic uncertainty is reinforcing this as João Guilherme points to high interest rates, inflation, political uncertainty surrounding Brazil’s presidential election and volatility in energy prices. “Put together, it is not a good time to invest in our country,” he says. “But things will change.” For now, he sees 2026 as a year for watching rather than expanding. “I see this year as a time to watch the market and be quiet.” That does not mean Giga has abandoned its ambitions. There is already a small additional location nearby, used primarily by the sales team to remain closer to customers, and the company has plans for further facilities in the future. But João Guilherme says expansion will only happen when Giga can replicate the standards of its existing operation. “If we opened another branch, we would have to ensure it provides the same service as we do here – perfection,” he says. “I would need to double the technicians and the drivers, and it is hard to find those people nowadays.” For a company that has grown organically from a handful of used Genie scissors into a 700-unit specialist fleet, this cautious appraoch is characteristic of Giga’s business phylosophy. Giga is not trying to be the biggest rental company in Brazil. Instead, it is concentrating on being a highly specialised regional operator, protecting its assets, investing when the economics make sense and choosing customers who value service over the lowest possible price, says João Guilherme “We are big in our local area,” João Guilherme adds. “And we will remain local.” RAI SEPTEMBER 2026 RAI

ERA PAGE European Rental Week returns 12-18 October. From sharing a customer project to organising a depot visit, there are a number of ways to take part.

uropean Rental Week gives rental companies, national associations, manufacturers, suppliers, customers and other industry partners a common framework to promote equipment rental across Europe. Its purpose is to reach a broader audience, raise awareness of rental and show the value the industry brings to businesses and society. This year’s campaign will focus on sustainability, people and skills, and the business value of rental. Participation is open to the entire rental community and is not limited to ERA members. It also does not require a large event or a separate communications budget. Each organisation can choose an activity that suits its size, audience and resources.

Start with a real project

The 2026 campaign includes ‘Rental made it possible’, which invites companies to show how rented equipment supports real projects. This could be a construction site, an industrial operation, an event or any other situation where rental helped a customer access the right equipment at the right time. The story could explain the customer’s need, the equipment supplied and the difference it made. A few photographs and a short description may be enough. Companies could also record a brief site video, ask a customer for a quote or demonstrate a specific piece of equipment.

ABOUT THE ERA: The European Rental Association was created in 2006 to represent national rental associations and equipment rental companies in Europe. Today, the membership includes more than 5,000 rental companies, either directly or through 14 rental associations. The ERA is active through its committees in the fields of Promotion, Sustainability, Statistics and Technical and through its Future Group. Extensive information on the ERA’s activities, reports and publications is available at www.erarental.org CONTACT INFORMATION:

European Rental Association (ERA), Avenue de Tervueren 188A, box4, 1150 Brussels, Belgium + 32 2 761 1604 | www.erarental.org Secretariat Administration: era@erarental.org Secretary General: secretariatgeneral@erarental.org accessbriefing.com | internationalrentalnews.com

Get involved Show the people who make rental work

European Rental Week is also an opportunity to introduce the people behind the service. Technicians, drivers, depot teams, trainers, engineers, fleet managers and customerfacing employees all contribute to the safe and effective use of equipment, but their roles are not always visible outside the sector. Companies could publish a short employee profile, share photographs from a typical working day or explain how a team prepares equipment before it reaches a customer. Training stories and career content can also show the range of skills needed in the industry and the opportunities available to new recruits. The format can remain simple. A short interview answering three questions, a team photograph with a clear caption or a brief behind-the-scenes video can provide credible and engaging content.

Manufacturers and partners Manufacturers, suppliers, customers and other stakeholders are also encouraged to participate. They could share examples of successful

collaboration with rental companies and customers, show how their products, services or technologies support rental operations, or explain why they see rental as a future-proof business model. Companies do not need to organise a large public event to participate. A focused local or internal activity can work just as well. National associations and other organisations may also develop their own initiatives, such as a series of interviews, webinars or coordinated national activities. An internal team activity can also be part of the week, particularly if it helps employees understand the wider campaign and contribute their own stories.

Share your rental week

Companies and individuals are encouraged to publish at least one activity on LinkedIn as part of ‘Share your rental week’, using #RentalWeek2026. Original company stories are particularly valuable. Rather than only reposting central campaign content, participants can show something from their own work, such as a customer project, a team member, a training session or a piece of equipment in use. Posts should explain what the reader is looking at and why it matters. Customers, suppliers and other partners can be tagged where relevant and with their agreement.

Use the available materials

ERA has prepared resources to make participation easier, including logos, visuals, posters, written content and campaign guidance. These materials can be adapted for company websites, newsletters, social media channels, internal communications and local events. Organisations do not need to use every element. They can select the resources that support their activity and adapt them to their language and market. Getting involved can be straightforward: choose one activity and share a concrete example of what rental makes possible. RAI Further information and campaign resources are available on the European Rental Week website europeanrentalweek.eu SEPTEMBER 2026 RAI

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03/09/2026 09:14

REPORT BOBCAT Bobcat’s T650 loader returns to Europe after an eight year absence, now with a Stage V engine.

obcat invites hundreds of its customers over several weeks in the early summer to view some of its latest launches. This year at a very hot and dusty Dobris facility it showcased upgraded ‘-2’ versions of its most powerful R-series skid steer and track loaders, as well the new T650 loader, which is returning to the European market after an eight-year absence. Also new at the customer and dealer meeting were its soon-to-be-available compact wheeled loaders – upgraded and moving from three to two models – while its mini excavator range will see wider availability of the cylinder inside boom (CIB) design previously used only on its E26 machine.

The new R-Series

The R-Series compact loaders – comprising the tracked T66-2, T76-2 and T86-2 machines and the S66-2, S76-2 and S86-2 skid steers - offer “significant enhancements in operator experience, performance and reliability”, said Bobcat. This S86-2 and T86-2 units use a more powerful 115hp (85kW) engine – the previous models were 105hp (78kW) – and lifting heights of up to 3.7m. That’s 0.3m higher on the T86-2 and S86-2 loaders. A new 8-inch touchscreen display with integrated technology offers four drive modes, and side and rear cameras provide 260 degree sightlines to remove blind spots for the operator. Patrik Natr, senior product marketing specialist, Bobcat EMEA, speaking at Demo Days, said the increase in power was in response to customer requests “because those biggest machines are really used for the advanced applications - with the forestry cutter, the wheel saw or planer, where you really need plenty of power.”

Tracked 650 returns

at its Demo Days event in the Czech Republic earlier in the summer. Murray Pollok reports.

Demo Days We are collecting feedback from our customers. Patrik Natr, senior product marketing specialist, Bobcat EMEA pictured at the 2026 Demo Days event.

ALL IMAGES: KHL GROUP

The new T650 Stage V compact track

Bobcat had multiple new launches and innovations

accessbriefing.com | internationalrentalnews.com

loader is another machine that comes back because of customer demand, using the well-established 600-frame and powered by a 55kW Bobcat engine. “There is a huge benefit for those customers because this engine is without AdBlue”, said Natr, “The rated operating capacity of this machine is almost 1.2 tonnes. So it’s great for not only loading trucks with a bucket, but also for handling heavy pallets. “At the same time, the machine is very capable as a tool carrier because of this high flow delivery of 115 l/min. You can put on this machine whatever attachment - wheel saw, planer - all those advanced applications will be possible because of this high flow delivery.” The T650 offers a vertical lift path and 1192 kg rated operating capacity, making it >

The cylinder inside boom (CIB) design will now be available on Bobcat’s E50 and E55 excavators, in addition to the E26 model. SEPTEMBER 2026 RAI

REPORT BOBCAT suited for truck loading, pallet handling and earthmoving. It comes with either manual or SJC (Selectable Joystick Controls), which allows operators to manage both drive functions and workgroups (lift/tilt) using two electronic joysticks. “With SJC, it’s actually a requirement if you want to use this tool carrier concept”, says Natr, “but some people still prefer levers. Manual controls offer better controllability experienced operators handle the machines better with manual controls.”

Wheel loader upgrades

Meanwhile, Bobcat has had a rethink with the range of compact wheel loaders it produces in Dobris for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, moving from the three L75, L85 and L95 models to two machines, the upgraded L85 and the new L100. “Why did we decide to have those two models?”, said Natr, “First of all, it’s because of the standard bucket size {0.85m3 and 1.0m3]. We found that customers are choosing based on the standard size of the bucket. It’s very easy for customers and dealers to understand what they are buying.” The L85 and L100 were previewed at Demo Days and will be officially launched at the GaLaBau show in Germany this September. In production by August, they will be available in Europe by September or October. In North America the L65 and L95 models will still be available, made in Dobris. Matyáš Heuer, Bobcat’s senior product manager for loaders, told KHL that the basic version of the L85 will replace the L75, while the L100 takes the place of the L95. The frames of the two machines are the same, and they share the front frame of the earlier models, but with a new rear frame, which now offers a configurable counterweight. The heaviest version of the L100 weighs 5.6 tonne, while the L85 top weight is 5.1 tonne. There are three speed options – 20, 30 and 40km/hr. The 20km/hr version is popular in Germany – that one country represents around half of the market for these machines in Europe - while Nordic buyers favour 40km/hr (using a two-speed mechanical gearbox). Other markets usually opt for the 30km/hr version. “You can have two approaches to the

RAI SEPTEMBER 2026

machine”, said Patrik Natr, “it can be either a load and carry machine - so with a bucket or pallet fork - or you can have it again as a tool carrier. “If you go for load and carry, you don’t need all the equipment, all the technology. You can go with very basic and lower specification, which means that you can keep the cost of the machine down.”

Cylinder inside boom

Bobcat is now introducing its cylinder inside boom (CIB) design for the E50 and E55Z models, expanding the use of the design beyond the E26 excavator, on which it has been used for several years. These versions of the E50/E55 models will be available by the end of the year or the start of 2027. Natr said this feature will be important for rental buyers, particularly in markets like the UK; “it’s bringing extra protection for the machine, not only for the boom itself but also for the blade. “When you are digging below yourself,

Bobcat’s L100 compact wheel loader, previewed at Demo Days.

it will be protected against a collision with the blade. It’s a huge benefit for rental companies.” Also on show at Demo Days was an E60 excavator fitted with an ‘operation by wire’ joystick. This was shown as a prototype only and there are no plans yet for a launch. Natr said the system offered great flexibility in how the controls are set up; “So it can be very smooth and very slow, with very precise movements, or it can be very fast. We don’t have a plan to launch it, but we are collecting feedback from customers.”

More than 90 machines

Demo Days, which is now an annual event for Bobcat at the Dobris facility, showcased more than 90 different machines from the Bobcat range, as well as many of its 250 attachments and accessories. Customers were able to operate machines in real working conditions in applications in agriculture, construction and demolition, forestry, grading and earthworks, landscaping, lifting and material handling and road construction. Katinka Kincses, Bobcat product manager for loaders, said, “It has been 15 years since we started Demo Days and they have proved to be must-visit events for our Bobcat dealers and their customers to try out a wide selection of machines and different types of attachments in working conditions. “They continue to provide the ideal occasions for Bobcat and its customers from all around EMEA to build even closer relationships.” RAI

Bobcat’s plant in Dobris, Czech Republic, employs 1700 people and produces 25,000 machines a year.

internationalrentalnews.com | accessbriefing.com

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GLOBAL EVENTS

IPAF NEWS DIARY DATES IPAF ELEVAÇÃO PORTUGAL 2026 30 September 2026 CICCOPN - Maia IPAF ELEVATION SWITZERLAND 2026 8-9 October 2026 Karlsruher Messe und Kongress GmbH, Germany IPAF SUMMIT & IAPAS 2026 15 October 2026 Istanbul Marriott Hotel Sisli, Turkey WORKING AT HEIGHT CONFERENCE & AWARDS 2026 28-29 October 2026 Orlando, Florida IPAF ELEVATION INDIA 2026 November 2026 TBC HEALTH & SAFETY ASIA 10-12 November 2026 Singapore IPAF ELEVANDO MEXICO 2026 20 November 2026 Hacienda Jurica by Brisas IPAF MIDDLE EAST CONFERENCE 2027 - date TBC Saudi Arabia Scan the QR code for all upcoming IPAF events or visit the website: ipaf.org/events

IPAF Statement: UK Government accepts provisional anti-dumping duties on certain boom lifts imported from China

PAF is aware of the UK Trade Remedies Authority’s (TRA) investigation into allegations that certain aerial work platforms manufactured in China are being imported into the UK at unfairly low prices. According to the TRA announcement, the investigation follows a complaint submitted by UK manufacturer Niftylift and covers a range of boom lifts, trailer-mounted lifts and spider lifts manufactured in China. The investigation will assess whether subsidised imports have caused injury to the UK industry and whether any trade remedies are appropriate. As a global organisation

APF takes place from 24 26 September at the Ragley Estate in Warwickshire - visit

From 10-11 September, IPAF is looking forward to once again exhibiting at ScaffEx26, the world’s biggest scaffolding and access industry event, held in Manchester. Visit Stand D34 to discover more about IPAF’s industry-leading training courses, essential safety guidance and resources, the benefits of becoming an IPAF member, and the latest support available to help improve safety across the access industry. Book your place by scanning the QR code shown here. RAI SEPTEMBER 2026

properly maintained, inspected, thoroughly examined where required, and operated by trained and competent personnel. IPAF will continue to focus on its core mission of promoting the safe and effective use of powered access equipment worldwide. The TRA has stated that it will gather evidence from interested parties before making recommendations. RAI For full details, scan the QR code and refer to the UK government’s official trade remedies notice.

IPAF will be at APF 2026

Come visit us at ScaffEx26

representing manufacturers, rental companies, contractors, training providers and users of powered access equipment, IPAF does not take a position on commercial trade disputes or market competition matters. The outcome of any investigation is a matter for the relevant authorities and parties. From a safety and technical perspective, IPAF’s position remains unchanged. Regardless of country of manufacture, all MEWPs placed on the market and operated within the UK should comply with applicable legislation, standards and safety requirements. Equipment used by IPAF members should be

us on Stand 1120-1140 in the demonstration area to discover the latest guidance and resources for the safe use of powered access equipment in arboriculture. Our stand will feature a static display of powered access equipment, highlighting the most common causes of serious incidents and fatalities in arboriculture identified through IPAF’s Global Safety Report. Learn how to recognise and manage key risks, including machine overturns, falls from the platform, operators being struck by falling objects, and working safely near overhead power lines. Our team will be on hand

to discuss IPAF training programmes and share a range of free technical guidance, Toolbox Talks and Andy Access safety posters covering topics including the safe use of MEWPs to manage trees and vegetation, rescue planning, falls from height, roadside working, lightning and RF antenna hazards. Visit IPAF for expert advice to keep your teams safe. RAI

internationalrentalnews.com | accessbriefing.com

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Electrocutions and electric shocks top cause of powered access fatal and major incidents, report finds info@ipaf.org +44 (0)15395 66700

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■ Seth Doman

SERVICE/ COMPONENT SUPPLIER ■ Chubb Fire & Security Ltd ■ Deerfield Risk Advisor ■ Liz Holding SAS T/a Lizit Rentals ■ Z hengzhou Lutong Hydraulic Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.

PAF’s Global Safety Report 2026 reveals that electrocutions and electric shocks were the top cause of fatalities and major incidents involving powered access in 2025. The findings are based on comprehensive analysis of incidents submitted through its global Accident Reporting Portal. Launched during a live webinar on 2 September 2026, the IPAF Global Safety Report 2026 examines accident data spanning 2016 to 2025, with a focus on the most recent yearon-year trends. By analysing anonymised global data, IPAF aims to equip the industry with actionable insights to reduce accidents and improve safety performance across all powered access operations. This year’s report shows that in 2025, there were 15% less fatal and major incidents reported, with 170 incident reports made compared to 201 reports in 2024. There were 76 fatalities reported, down from 100 in 2024 – marking a 24% decrease. A total of 192 people

were involved in incidents (9% less than in 2024), and reports came from 25 countries (one less than in 2024). In terms of incidents resulting in deaths or major injury, electrocutions and electric shocks were the leading cause of accidents in 2025. IPAF received 28 reports in this category from six countries, which included 20 fatalities. The majority of reported incidents (71%) were from the United States. Falls from the platform and overturns were the next most frequently reported causes. Most incidents occurred on construction sites (37%), followed by arboriculture (13%), other (14%), arboriculture (13%) and rental activity (13%). The top MEWP categories involved were 3b (26%) and 3a machines (25%). Other key statistics from the report include: ■ A 14% increase in falls from the platform reports but 24% decrease in fatalities from 2024 to 2025. ■ A 68% reduction in reports of entrapment and 63% decrease in fatalities. ■ A 58% decrease in reports of overturns and 53%

To view the full Global Safety Report 2026, visit www.ipaf.org/accident. The launch webinar is available to watch via IPAF’s YouTube channel too: youtube. com/@ipaforg accessbriefing.com | internationalrentalnews.com

decrease in fatalities. ■ A 20% increase in incident reports of people or machines being hit by a falling object but a 50% decrease in fatalities. ■ A 125% increase in fatalities attributed to being hit by a vehicle or machine. ■ A 200% increase in incident reports related to Mast Climbing Work Platforms (MCWPs) and Construction Hoists, with a 700% increase in fatalities (8 fatalities). “A 24% reduction in fatalities is encouraging and demonstrates that sustained industry focus can make a real difference, but we cannot allow this progress to lead to complacency,” said Brian Parker, Head of Safety & Technical at IPAF. “Every reported incident provides valuable learning, and the data highlights where our attention must remain firmly fixed – particularly around electrocutions, falls from the platform, overturns, and the emerging increase in incidents involving MCWPs and Construction Hoists. The Global Safety Report gives the powered access industry the evidence it needs to act, by strengthening planning and supervision, improving operator and frontline supervisor training, and reinforcing safe behaviours at every stage of powered access operations. By working together and continuing to share accident data, we can target our safety efforts where they are most needed and help reduce serious incidents and fatalities globally.” RAI SEPTEMBER 2026 RAI

Promote and enable the safe, effective use of powered access worldwide

TIME TO UPSKILL? IPAF offers more than 40 training courses for different machine categories including mobile elevating work platforms (MEWP), mast climbing work platforms (MCWP) and construction hoists (CH). Whether you’re a site manager, health & safety professional, engineer, planner, specialist, experienced operator, or absolute beginner, IPAF has a course for you. IPAF training helps keep employees safe and employers legally compliant, while the globally recognised IPAF PAL Card proves O 3 MI V ER L operators have been trained to the highest standard. L CAR ION PAL DS H AV BEEN Many courses can be taken solely or partly online as IS SU E W E ORL eLearning, in a matter of hours, providing flexibility DW I D D E to fit training in easily around your schedule.

Find out more and book directly with an IPAF Approved Training Centre: www.ipaf.org/training or scan

All your qualifications are accessed digitally via IPAF’s award-winning free app

INTERVIEW HIBOO Charles Bénard, co-founder and chief product officer at French tech firm Hiboo tells Murray Pollok about how its fleet management software is supporting rental fleets.

Image showing Hiboo’s platform to monitor mixed-brand fleets.

rench tech business Hiboo began life in 2017 with the goal of helping contractors manage their mixed fleets of equipment, providing the hardware to track machines and the software platform to manage them. However, Charles Bénard, Hiboo’s chief product officer and one of three co-founders, tells International Rental News they quickly realised that rented equipment should be included as well, which naturally led the business to consider rental companies as potential customers. “At some point we realised that there is a lot of value for plant hire companies to share the data with their end customers and to become a digital partner so that they allow their end customers to unlock some visibility on what is going wrong, what is going right, and make better decisions,” says Bénard, who co-founded the business with his brother Clément, who is the CEO, and a friend, François Jacob, the CFO.

IMAGES: HIBOO

Making the most of sharing

Users of its software now encompass both contractors and rental businesses, more of the former in France and more of the latter in the UK. Its UK rental customers include Flannery Plant Hire, Blackwood Plant Hire and GAP Group. Ciarán Higgins, who joined Hiboo last year as the company’s representative in the UK, says with UK rental companies it started with the need to provide a digital service to the large tier-one contractors. In the case of Flannery, says Higgins, they are now sharing data with around 300 customers. “But then as they go through the process, they start to realise, we could actually do a accessbriefing.com | internationalrentalnews.com

Mixed fleets lot with this data that we’re paying for to improve maintenance, billing and all the things that we actually look at internally,” says Higgins, “But they almost have to get that client demand first, and then they’ll actually take a look at it.”

Usage-based maintenance

For example, rental firms use machine data from mixed fleets to shift from a calendar-based maintenance schedule to a usage-based approach; “And there’s no [heavy work] on your end to do it because

We help develop customer relationship success. Charles Bénard, a co-founder and chief product officer, Hiboo.

you already have the data. We have a maintenance module, or they already have a something in their ERP - we can do it either way,” says Higgins. Earlier this year the company also signed up Glasgow-based GAP Group, one of the UK’s largest privately-owned rental businesses. Bénard says, “One of the first use cases we unlocked at GAP was how to move from a manually updated maintenance system to data-driven maintenance systems. It’s changing everything because the way you retrieve the data is costing less.” The company now has as many as 200,000 assets being analysed by its software. Machines feeding data through Hiboo’s systems are based in more than 100 countries, thanks in part to its work with global players such as French contractor Colas. In addition to its rental customers, Hiboo’s technology is being used by Bylor, the joint venture between Bouygues and Laing O’Rourke, on the massive Hinckley Point C nuclear power station. >

Hiboo’s founders, from left: Clément Bénard (CEO), François Jacob (CFO) and Charles Bénard (CPO). IMAGE: HIBOO/ FRANCK VOGEL

SEPTEMBER 2026 RAI

INTERVIEW HIBOO Higgins says that project has helped it gain work on other major UK sites, such as the Sizewell C nuclear plant and the Lower Thames Crossing tunnel in London.

From hardware to software

If the switch to a broader customer base was an early decision, so was the realisation that the early focus on tracking hardware should give way to a greater emphasis on software. “We are a 100% software company”, says Bénard, “but to be honest the first two and a half years of Hiboo we were trying to build hardware - not the hardware that is connected to the CanBus, but something that would match a connectivity need for powered assets, something you can stick and track.” The technology worked, and they will still offer that, but fleet managers told them that most machines already had OEM-fitted hardware; “And so we realised that actually there’s a lot of data,” says Bénard, “The problem is not a connectivity problem, it’s how do you retrieve this data?” The focus now is doing more than simply aggregating data from multiple sources, but creating a fleet management solution where the data is reaching the operations; “So, how do I optimise maintenance programming based on an automatic understanding of the OEM documentation? How do I forecast when to do my next maintenance, where how do I do my forms, surveys, etc. “We are here to help with internal [rental] operations, but we are also here to help develop the success of the relationship with your customers, because you are moving from being an equipment supplier to being maybe like a plant advisor, because you’re sharing the data with them. “We can envision a situation where you advise your end customers to a level that you can price it, because you are allowing them to get the data that was a blind spot for them before.” Bénard says one application will be to make the measurement of machine utilisation more accurate; “It’s hard to understand utilisation because if it was not working that day what was the reason? Was it the weather? Was it because there was a fault on the machine?

Multiple data sources

The company’s website includes details of the multiple data sources that its software can accept, from the telematics systems of OEMs, truck manufacturers and even telematics providers. It also shares integrations with other software companies,

RAI SEPTEMBER 2026

A longer version of this interview can be found by scanning the Qr code, or visiting international rentalnews.com Map showing machine location and data. meaning that Hiboo can feed data into a company’s existing ERP or accounting system. In addition, it is working with one major construction equipment OEM to be the software interface giving end users a way to integrate data from mixed fleets – a kind of ‘white label’ software approach. In terms of product development work, there are various things the company is working on, including the use of AI. “What we believe in is an assisted version of fleet management,” says Bénard, “Within Hiboo, there’s already many points where you have assistance. For example, a machine that enters your inventory will automatically be set up because of AI understanding of what the asset is, and soon it will also provide not only the equipment category, but the documentation as well, the pictures, etc.”

“Where we are currently helping the most is with fleet and asset status - how can you have a one glance picture of the full site picture, where am I needing energy, etc. So, this leads to how do I match usage to capacity?”

Help with electrification

Safety-related alerts

The company is now working to help rental companies and contractors manage the electrification of their fleets and sites, and it will soon launch a dedicated electric vehicle module. “When you are taking the risk to be carbon free at the construction level using electric equipment, it’s a complex logistic,” says Bénard. “You need to help fleet managers and companies to better understand ‘What is available in my BESS? How can I supply my equipment for the tasks I want to perform tomorrow?’ This is something we are excited about - we’ve been retrieving a lot of data.” He says the system will help with both planning and pre-deployment sizing, and then the scheduling and logistics of charging and energy use.

Hiboo will consolidate machine data from multiple brands of equipment.

If electrification is one recent development, it is also looking at safety-related topics. For example, working with Netherlands company BMair which designs technology to protect machine operators from hazardous dust and gases using cab pressurising systems and air filters. “We retrieve the data, mix it with the other data we have, and help the fleet manager take better decisions,” explains Bénard. There is certainly a lot going on at the business, something that is reflected it its growth. Bénard says it is expanding at 45% to 50% each year, helped by a €12 million funding round completed at the end of 2023. “We are still going through some cash because we want to grow, but we are targeting being break even by 2028.” RAI internationalrentalnews.com | accessbriefing.com

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