Perthshire plant hire firm Morris Leslie has acquired hundreds of machines in an acquisition that expands its reach across the UK.
Morris Leslie is best known for hiring construction equipment, but also has auction and property interests.
It recently entered the holiday lodge sector with a development near Alyth.
Now the West Kinfauns business has completed the acquisition of Harborough Hire Centre, based in Market Harborough in Leicestershire.
Morris Leslie now has 15 UK depots
The Leicestershire deal, for an undisclosed fee, will see all of Harborough Hire Centre’s staff join the Morris Leslie team.
It also sees Morris Leslie Plant Hire increase its network of depots across the UK to 15.
Perthshire entrepreneur Morris Leslie started in business in 1974.
The firm now provides plant hire services from the highlands of Scotland to the south coast of England.
Last year the plant hire business recorded highest-ever profits in its 48-year history.
The purchase increases Morris Leslie Plant Hires already extensive plant hire fleet by over 300 machines.
Morris Leslie buys respected Leicestershire firm
Managing director Graham Ogilvie said: “We are delighted to have concluded the purchase of the long-established and well-respected hire business which has been built up and grown by John and team at Harborough Hire Centre.
“This strategic purchase will allow us to expand our offering in the Leicestershire and East Midlands area.”
Mr Ogilvie said despite the change in ownership, it will be business as usual at the Leicestershire base.
“While the name may be changing, Harborough Hire customers can be sure that they will continue to receive the same first class service from the same great team,” he said.
This announcement comes just weeks after the news of the Perthshire firm’s record JCB order for almost £90 million to support its 2023 growth plans.
Meanwhile the auction arm of the business is bringing to an auction next month the late Queen Mother’s Daimler limousine for the cost of a 10-year-old Ford Focus.
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