Ardent Hire Solutions: Driving Forward with Innovation and Focused Growth

Over the past year, Ardent Hire Solutions has undergone a remarkable transformation, repositioning itself at the forefront of the UK’s material‑handling and plant‑hire sector. Launched in 2015, the business merged Fork Rent and One Call Hire, building a diverse equipment fleet. However, recent strategic decisions show a clear pivot towards telehandlers, roto‑telehandlers and smart fuel management systems—a move critics call “Ardent 2.0”

In late 2024, Ardent announced its full exit from the earth‑moving sector—selling off excavators, dumpers and rollers—as returns diminished amidst rising costs and declining rental rates. This bold retreat, involving the sale of around 2,000 machines in 2024, cleared the way for a £50 million capital injection into material‑handling assets, including over 750 new telehandlers and an expanded roster of roto‑telehandlers.

This investment heralds a significant fleet refresh. Ardent’s HGV delivery capabilities also advanced, with new Volvo trucks deployed across job sites, offering enhanced fuel efficiency, advanced safety systems and real‑time telematics. These changes ensure faster, more reliable and greener delivery of plant and machinery—a clear benefit for customers in need of dependable logistics.

Digital innovation remains central to Ardent’s evolution. Our in‑house Fuel‑IT smart fuel‑management platform has been shortlisted for the prestigious Hire Excellence Awards 2025 as “Product of the Year”. The system provides real‑time fuel tracking, reduces waste and improves sustainability—tools much needed in the wake of the 2022 red‑diesel regulation shift .

Ardent’s strategy, coined “Ardent 2.0”, is grounded in data‑driven decision‑making and a streamlined commercial focus. By doubling down on high‑demand telehandler solutions, integrated digital systems and elite logistics, Ardent aims to lead a smarter, more sustainable plant‑hire market.

In summary, Ardent Hire Solutions has clearly repositioned itself through:

1. Exiting low‑return earth‑moving hire and refocusing on specialist telehandlers.
2. Deploying a fleet-relocation renewal backed by a £50 million investment.
3. Enhancing logistics with new Volvo HGVs and telematics.
4. Innovating with digital systems like Fuel‑IT, earning industry accolades.

These concerted efforts firmly establish Ardent as a focused, forward‑thinking partner for the modern construction and hire industry.