The firm has taken delivery of more than 400 JCB machines in 2025, with a further 300-plus units due to arrive in 2026. The order covers a broad mix of equipment, including excavators, dumpers and telehandlers, and forms part of an ongoing programme to replace older machines and keep the fleet relatively young.

Founded in North Wales in 2000, Thomas Plant Hire has grown into a nationwide operator with 14 depots, supplying equipment to sectors ranging from housebuilding and civil engineering to utilities and events. Growth has been driven in part by acquisitions, as well as the addition of services such as tool hire and powered access.

Grant Rees, head of business development at Thomas Plant Hire, stated the company’s rapid growth has been driven by a combination of strategic acquisitions and a commitment to diversifying its offering.

“In recent years we’ve expanded both geographically and in terms of the services we provide,” said Mr Rees. “We’ve acquired several businesses and developed additional divisions including tool hire, accommodation, powered access and machine control.

“That diversification means we can support customers across multiple sectors, from construction and infrastructure through to film productions, large events and industrial projects.”

Mr Rees explained that investment in new machinery is driven by several factors, including reliability, utilisation and maintaining the company’s professional image on site.

He continued: “When customers hire a machine, they expect it to arrive looking fresh, modern and ready to work. Keeping the fleet young helps us maintain high utilisation and reliability.

“Older machines naturally require more repairs and maintenance, so by investing regularly we reduce downtime and ensure our customers receive dependable equipment.”

The company’s fleet now includes thousands of items of plant and equipment across the UK, making Thomas Plant Hire one of the largest operators in the sector.

Thomas Plant Hire’s relationship with Scot JCB began following the company’s expansion into Scotland, which included the acquisition of Mulholland Plant. Since then, the partnership has developed rapidly as Thomas Plant Hire has continued to invest in new equipment.

Mr Rees highlighted the importance of working with a supplier that can support a fleet operating across multiple locations.

He added: “One of the key factors for us when choosing a manufacturer is the level of after-sales support and the relationship we have with the supplier. In a fast-moving hire environment, response times and support are critical. From what we have seen, Scot JCB has been extremely reactive and supportive.”

That support has been particularly important given the scale of Thomas Plant Hire’s operation, with machines working across Scotland, England and Wales.

Mr Rees continued: “In terms of the relationship with Scot JCB, it’s been seamless. When we place orders, everything runs to plan, and the after-sales support is key. As the saying goes, the salesperson sells the first machine, but the service sells the second.”

David Park, construction sales director at Scot JCB, said the relationship with Thomas Plant Hire is one the company values highly.

Mr Park said: “Thomas Plant Hire is an important customer for Scot JCB and a fantastic business to work with. Their growth over recent years has been remarkable, and it has been great to support them as they continue to expand their fleet across the UK.

“We are proud to supply JCB machines to a company with such exacting standards for its equipment and customer service, and we look forward to continuing to grow our relationship with Thomas Plant Hire over the coming years.”