Briggs Equipment has completed the acquisition of Galway Plant and Tool Hire (GPT), one of Ireland’s largest and most successful plant, commercial vehicle and tool hire specialists.

Trading since 1969 and operating from eight sites throughout the Republic of Ireland, GPT employs more than 90 people.

This acquisition will see Briggs Equipment established as the largest plant hire company in Ireland, and will help bolster its equipment fleet and increase coverage across the country. 

Peter Jones, Briggs Equipment’s group managing director, says Galway’s fleet of 2,800 plant assets, 1,900 commercial vehicles and dedicated expert people “will allow us to significantly increase and improve the quality and diversity of our service offering throughout Ireland”. 

“In recent years, we have continued to deliver on our strategic acquisition strategy, which has enabled us to increase our presence within key markets to the point where we are now the largest plant and tool hire company in the island of Ireland.” 

Jones adds that, as is the case with every acquisition, Briggs is focused on working with businesses that share its values, ambition and culture. “Throughout this intensive acquisition process, we have been extremely impressed with the leadership team at GPT and the expertise of their people at every location. Their nationwide presence and impressive customer portfolio demonstrate the robustness of the business and the solid foundations that we can build on with the appropriate support and investment.” 

Jim Hughes, Galway Plant and Tool Hire’s founder and director, will step back from the business and Enda Eiffe will become sole managing director, overseeing the day-to-day operations and ensuring a smooth transition into the Briggs Equipment Group.