JCB has reached new heights by securing an order worth £40 million for hundreds of its machines as a plant hire company based in the UK looks to renew its fleet.

Ardent Hire Solutions is one of the largest plant hire firms in the UK and is set to purchase 700 JCB Loadall telescopic handlers and rough terrain forklift trucks as it looks to offer the most technologically advanced machines currently available on the market.

Watling JCB, a JCB dealer based in Leicestershire, is supplying the machines.

The amalgamation of One Call Hire and Fork Rent last year led to the establishment of Ardent, whose head office is based in Middlesex.

The business trades from 12 depots throughout the UK and provides more than 5,000 units for rent with an average age of less than two years and a fleet holding of around £150 million.

Sales Director for JCB in UK and Ireland, Dan Thompstone, said that this investment is a continuation of the long standing relationship between JCB, One Call Hire and Fork Rent.

Thompstone continued: It is a massive deal and with the bulk of the order for JCB Loadall telehandlers, it represents the biggest deal this year for that product anywhere in the world.

Ardent is a key partner for us in the UK rental market and its continued investment in JCB equipment is testament to JCB’s product innovation, reliability and unrivalled UK-wide dealer aftermarket and parts support.

Meanwhile, Ardent Commercial Director, Tom Gleeson said that the company is increasing its share of the UK hire market and intends to build on that position with an investment in the best available equipment.

Gleeson added: Our purchase of JCB machines is our largest investment so far this year. We are committed to invest in the best, most technologically advanced machines for our customers offering far superior products then any of our competitors.