2010 RER 100 Ranked List

*Denotes RER estimate based on regional economic conditions, industry sources and interviews by members of the RER staff. Other revenue figures are based on actual reported revenue for North American operations for 2009. Location data are as of April 25, 2010, to the best of the knowledge of the RER staff. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy and thoroughness, omissions sometimes occur.

1 through 25
26 through 50
51 through 75
76 through 104

Alphabetical List

Rank	Company Name (Last year’s rank) Headquarters Top Officer Website	2009 Rental Volume in Millions	2009 Total Volume in Millions	Number of Outlets
1	UNITED RENTALS (1) Greenwich, Conn. Michael Kneeland www.ur.com	$1,830.0	2,358.0	562
A 25.8 percent rental volume decline comparable to industry averages; saved money on SG&A expenses, reduced debt and improved cash flow, aged fleet, reduced headcount and closed branches, increased emphasis on industrial business; continued to improve sharing of fleet between branches and grew percentage of revenues derived from national accounts. New technological advances include pricing optimization software to be fully deployed in ’10 in branches and salespeoples’ smartphones; asset-tagging processes with handheld computers to barcode all rental assets, a companywide deployment of handheld GPS devices and route-optimization and dispatching software; customer-service scorecards to improve service response time, on-time delivery, off-rent pick-up time, equipment availability and billing dispute resolution.
2	RSC EQUIPMENT RENTAL (2) Scottsdale, Ariz. Erik Olsson www.rscrental.com	$1,073.0	$1,283.0	457
Has become an industry leader in environmental initiatives, collaborating with vendors to provide sustainable solutions including an equipment refurbishment program, the use of environmentally friendly parts washers and solid tires, and a new equipment emissions tracking system, which calculates greenhouse gas and criteria pollutant emissions from RSC equipment. Sustainability initiatives saved company more than $25 million in ’09. The company’s waste-oil recycling program alone diverts nearly half a million gallons of used oil per year from permanent disposal. Incorporating energy-saving features in its newly opened store locations. Continuing shift towards more industrial clientele.
3	SUNBELT RENTALS (3) Fort Mill, S.C. Joseph Phelan www.sunbeltrentals.com	$1,029.9	$1,149.4	395
Probably second-largest U.S. rental company because not active in Canada unlike other major national players. Expecting sequential improvement throughout the calendar year 2010, with more acceleration of that improvement in the back half. Improved sales-force effectiveness with iPhone technology, which gives salesperson pricing capability and customer account information. Continuing to expand pump & power and scaffolding specialty locations. Dramatically improved efficiencies in back-office operations, logistics, parts and service functions, parts and equipment procurement, preventive maintenance, warranty processing and service bulletins, with help from SmartEquip technology. New CEO Phelan, former DHL executive, has strong logistics background.
4	HERTZ EQUIPMENT RENTAL CORP. (4) Park Ridge, N.J. Gerry Plescia www.hertzequip.com	$891.0*	$1,149.4*	255
Numbers are for North America only, as company is growing its European footprint, with three branches in China and new joint venture in Middle East. Canadian business not hit as hard as U.S. Industrial and petrochemical business recovering much quicker than construction. Starting to see more municipal and state-funded work such as transportation terminals and water and sewer projects. Plans to add about 10 new branches this year as part of a companywide strategy to tap into markets emerging from the recession as well as to provide onsite support to key industries such as petrochemical.
5	HOME DEPOT RENTALS (5) Atlanta Gaven Gregory www.homedepotrents.com	$520.0*	n/a	1,200*
Homeowner business not hit as hard as contractor/commercial construction. Online Home Depot Tool School gives instructions on doing DIY projects.
6	MAXIM CRANE RENTAL CORP. (8) Bridgeville, Pa. Art Innamorato www.maximcrane.com	$275.5*	n/a	34
Not a boom time for crane rentals but backing of Platinum Equity should help company through until upturn begins. Considering acquisition possibilities with Platinum eager to invest and consolidate. Invested heavily in crawler-crane fleet as part of fleet-repositioning effort. Focusing more on more complicated projects in industrial and power sector. Recently sold $250 million of notes in private placement market.
7	AHERN RENTALS (7) Las Vegas Don Ahern www.ahernrentals.com	$250.1	$284.3	71
Controversial expansion into East and Southeast markets didn’t please competition but enabled company to re-deploy fleet idled after major slowdown in Las Vegas, particularly the completion of massive City Center project. With utilization improving in early ’10, expansion has pretty well stopped now. Formation of national accounts division in April ’09 has paid dividends, with more than 50 national account relationships established, about 15 percent of which serve the industrial sector. 24-percent decline in rental revenue and 25 in total revenue in line with national averages.
8	NES RENTALS (6) Deerfield, Ill. Andrew Studdert www.nesrentals.com	$240.3	$300.6	77
Continuing emphasis on safety keeps NES in the forefront in terms of aerial safety practices, offering training for customers and its own staff including management, setting up an IPAF training facility at one of its branches. Had 29.9-percent rental volume drop. Established program to give money to Wounded Warrior program for any NES machine found on a jobsite not current with inspections; giving donations despite ultra-high compliance record. Scoring high on customer-loyalty rating system.
9	AGGREKO NORTH AMERICA (10) Houston George Walker (president North America); Rupert Soames (CEO Aggreko plc) www.aggreko.com	$234.7	$307.7	58
Added new locations in Canada, Wyoming, Indianapolis and Long Island. Biggest strength was major international power projects such as Vancouver Winter Olympics and presidential inauguration. Internationally a record year for Aggreko in volume and profitability. Designs and builds most of its own fleet of generators, temperature control equipment and oil-free compressors at facilities in Scotland. Designed new high-temperature heater in past year.
10	FINNING (11) Edmonton, Alberta Gordon MacDougald www.finning.ca	$224.4	$2,386.6	32
Numbers reflect Canadian business, not including U.K. or South American operations. Revenues dropped 26 percent in Canada, 24 percent in rental, although product support in mining operations jumped 30 percent compared with 2008. Implemented customer-service commitment program, guaranteeing on-time completion. Strengthening commodity prices will boost mining and oil-sands business in 2010. Reduced cost structure and improved operational efficiencies will help company rebound.
11	H&E EQUIPMENT SERVICES (9) Baton Rouge, La. John Engquist www.he-equipment.com	$191.5	$679.7	69
A 35-percent rental volume drop bounced H&E out of the top 10, with 36-percent total revenue plunge. Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas accounted for majority of total revenue and gross profit, performing better because of H&E involvement in oil and gas and petrochemical markets. Intermountain region is company’s second-largest, and improved commodity pricing should improve demand in this region. Opened five new stores over the past six months to redeploy assets from existing stores operating in depressed market conditions with heavier exposure to non-residential construction. Opened branches in Sacramento, Nashville and Baltimore in ’09, Indianapolis, Louisville and Pasco, Wash., in early 2010.
12	ALL ERECTION & CRANE RENTAL CORP. (14) Cleveland Michael Liptak www.allcrane.com	$190.0*	n/a	34
Introduced a 3-D lift-planning and crane-selection application available on all onboard crane computers in company’s fleet, facilitating the planning of complex, multiple-crane operations, helping to plan around obstructions and improve safety and lift accuracy. Added two Canadian branches. Received awards for transportation safety performance from Specialized Carriers & Rigging Association. Placed cap on 49-foot-tall Coca-Cola bottle at Atlanta Braves’ Turner Field.
13	AMECO (16) Greenville, S.C. Gary Bernardez www.ameco.com	$188.0	n/a	30
Fleet management and site-services specialist reached an extraordinary 30 million work hours and nine consecutive years without a lost workday injury or illness. Jobsite services include providing equipment, planning and forecasting, preventive maintenance and repairs, parts inventory management, fueling and lubricating services, operator training, equipment disposal logistics and more.
14	SAFWAY SERVICES (15) Waukesha, Wis. Marc Wilson www.safway.com	$185.0*	n/a	85
Sold by ThyssenKrupp to Odyssey Partners, which has or had ownership interests in Neff Rentals, the tank rental division of NES Rentals, Williams Scotsman and United Site Services. After three years under ThyssenKrupp name, Safway returns to previous name and logo. With extensive experience in commercial, petrochemical, power, bridge and special events industries, Safway played major role in 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.
15	AMQUIP CRANE CORP. (17) Travose, Pa. Frank Bardonaro www.amquip.com	$156.0	$156.0	14
A 16.6-percent revenue drop not bad in current environment. Brought in former Maxim senior executive Al Bove as COO, with Bardonaro promoted to president and CEO. Opened branches in Memphis, focusing on project and “bare” rentals, also added Edwardsport, Ind., facility. Developed excellent safety rating, and achieved platinum designation from Harvard Contractor Safety Assessment Program.
16	NEFF RENTAL (13) Miami Graham Hood www.neffcorp.com	$154.0	$192.0	63
A 31.5-percent rental volume plunge for Miami-based rental chain.
17	SUNSTATE EQUIPMENT CO. (12) Phoenix Mike Watts www.sunstateequip.com	$146.0*	n/a	55
With Phoenix and southern California being major Sunstate markets, company was hard hit by the recession but remained profitable and attracted the interest of Sumitomo Corp., which acquired a minority interest in the company after 18 months of conversations, providing company with increased liquidity. Founder and chairman Watts and management team remain intact. Opened branches in Killeen, Texas, and Tulsa, Okla. Watts inducted into ARA Hall of Fame in February 2010.
18	VOLVO RENTS (19) Asheville, N.C Barry Natwick www.volvorents.com	$135.0	$213.0	79
18.6-percent rental volume decline was comparatively modest. Brought in two new franchisees in ’09, while a few investors held back because of recessionary concerns. Comedy nights in various markets helped raise money for food banks, while contribution programs to support overseas troops shined positive focus on equipment rental community. “Color for a Cause” program, where stores painted selected units the color of a chosen charity and donated its rental proceeds to that charity is another popular Volvo Rents program. Beginning to see rate stability.
19	RING POWER (20) Jacksonville, Fla. Randy Ringhaver www.ringpower.com	$96.0*	n/a	14
A roughly 20-percent decrease not bad for Florida and a hopeful sign. A slightly more stable rate environment is another sign of hope for one of industry’s top Caterpillar dealership rental programs. Recently named Terex Hydra Platform distributor, offering sales, rental and product support for the Hydra Platform product throughout Florida.
20	EQUIPMENT DEPOT (21) Houston David Turner www.eqdepot.com	$93.3	$312.7	40
Founder and 43-year industry veteran Don Moes retired, place taken by Turner, now responsible for Pon operations in U.S. and Europe. Moved international headquarters to Houston. Has hopes of expanding to new markets in next 18 months. Pon Material Handling Group comprises five Equipment Depot material handling companies of Pon North America group, also includes several European rental and material handling companies (listed revenues are North America only). Equipment Depot of Illinois recently became authorized Nissan Forklift dealer.
21	BATTLEFIELD EQUIPMENT RENTALS (24) Stoney Creek, Ontario Randy Casson www.battlefieldequipment.ca	$86.0	$170.0	36
Put in motion environmental initiative to prevent pollution; minimize energy, materials usage and production of waste; and implement effective and responsible waste management and disposal. Cat rental specialist, strong in Genie, Skyjack and general rentals. Ontario’s largest rental player with 28 branches, plus two in Manitoba and rest in Newfoundland and Labrador.
22	BRIGGS EQUIPMENT (22) Dallas David Bratton www.briggsequipment.com	$81.0	n/a	21
U.K. has taken over as Briggs’ top rental revenue producer with $67 million (not included on RER 100 revenues), with $52.1 million in U.S. and an impressive $28.9 million in Mexico out of four branches. Currently the largest company in Sammons Enterprises, Briggs dates its existence to 1896 as part of Briggs-Weaver Machinery Co., which provided service for pump installations, lift trucks and material handling equipment. Briggs closed its construction equipment business, which was primarily a Case dealership in Florida, North and South Carolina. Forklift business still open in Atlanta, and throughout Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Mexico.
23	RED-D-ARC WELDERENTALS (25) Austell, Ga. Mitch Imielinski www.red-d-arc.com	$78.0	$100.0*	43
A 20.4-percent rental volume drop for industry’s leading welding rental specialist, whose product lines include a varied inventory of more than 50,000 welders, weld-positioning equipment, diesel-powered electric generators, induction-heating equipment and new introduction of Cold Jet dry-ice blasting equipment. Opened new operations in Le Havre, France, in February 2010, complementing U.K., France and Netherlands operation (revenue is North America only). Has developed welding fleet management and leasing as part of its services.
24	HOLT CAT (23) San Antonio Allyn Archer www.holtcat.com	$66.5	n/a	18
38.9-percent rental volume drop for major Texas Caterpillar dealership. CEO Peter Holt told a “Start Me Up USA” rally that local equipment dealers experienced a 70-percent drop in new machine sales from 2008 levels, and that Holt Cat let go 25 percent of its staff. Holt expansion plans were put on hold pending economic improvement. Expects highway construction and housing starts to improve during second half of ’10 and Texas to be one of the first to improve because employment didn’t drop as dramatically as most other areas.
25	FABICK RENTS (27) Fenton, Mo. Doug Fabick www.fabickcat.com	$66.0	n/a	12
Only dropped $800,000 in rental volume, a great performance for 2009. Has huge range of construction and power systems equipment, one of the larger Cat dealers around. Strong parts presence, with classic parts for old Caterpillar machines as well as competitive units. Makes hydraulic hoses for all makes, with special order fittings within 24 hours.

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The Hardest Year Virtually everyone on the RER 100 agrees 2009 was a year they'd like to forget. But it may take time to get over this perfect storm. Alphabetical List

jump to...

The Hardest Year Virtually everyone on the RER 100 agrees 2009 was a year they'd like to forget. But it may take time to get over this perfect storm.

1 through 25
26 through 50
51 through 75
76 through 104

Alphabetical List

Rank	Company Name (Last year’s rank) Headquarters Top Officer Website	2009 Rental Volume in Millions	2009 Total Volume in Millions	Number of Outlets
26	LOCATION D’OUTILS SIMPLEX (34) Montreal Andre Veronneau www.simplex.ca	$57.0	$73.0	39
Slight increase for leading Quebec rental company. Company has more than 50,000 items in 800 categories, but still claims Quebec’s biggest fleet of aerials and forklifts, and is strong in heavy earthmoving as well.
27	SCOTT CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT (31) Monroe, La. Scott Cummins www.scottcompanies.com	$51.5*	n/a	23
Has branches in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa and Missouri. Recently celebrated 70 years in business. Big-time Volvo CE dealer.
28	BLANCHARD RENTAL SERVICES (28) West Columbia, S.C. Joe Blanchard www.blanchardmachinery.com	$48.8*	n/a	9
Long-time Carolinas Cat dealer, now New Holland dealer for Charleston, Summerville and Walterboro areas.
29	DAYTON SUPERIOR CORP. (33) Dayton, Ohio Eric Zimmerman www.daytonsuperior.com	$48.5*	$400.0	13
Went through Chapter 11 process, emerging with strengthened balance sheet, substantially lower debt, increased liquidity and sustainable capital structure. Has $100 million rental fleet expects to add about $8 to $10 million in fleet replacement in 2010. Biggest prepetition note holder now owns substantial majority of stock in new privately held company. Rationalized physical structure of the company and has enough capital to survive recession. Reached agreement to sell its Dur-O-Wal line of masonry construction products, to focus on core concrete construction products. Still maintaining ongoing rental operations, rental branches in Baltimore and southern California soon.
30	WAGNER RENTS (26) Denver Bruce Wagner www.wagnerequipment.com	$48.1*	n/a	20
Opened new branch in Clovis, N.M., where there’s an Air Force base and government projects. Wagner Rents Cat Rental Stores faring better than heavy earthmoving equipment from the dealership. Exploring options and niches such as bridge projects.
31	MUSTANG RENTAL SERVICES (29) Channelview, Texas Brad Tucker www.mustangcat.com	$44.8	n/a	7
28-percent rental volume drop is about average for most Caterpillar rental programs in 2009. Resizing of rental fleet in 2009 has Mustang positioned for a much-improved 2010.
32	STEPHENSON’S RENTAL SERVICES (35) Mississauga, Ontario Guy Manuel www.stephensons.ca	$44.0	$57.0	21
Acquired the general equipment rental assets of Oxford Builders Supplies in London, Ontario, and entered into an agreement with EllisDon, one of Canada’s premier construction companies, to become its primary equipment rental provider in Ontario. Implemented several restructuring initiatives to capture growth as the economy rebounds in 2010. Company operates bi-weekly delivery process refreshing fleet and performing maintenance as required. New CEO Manuel replaced Willie Swisher, who retired to return to home in Texas, remaining on Stephenson’s board.
33	EMPIRE MACHINERY (32) Mesa, Ariz. Jeffrey Whiteman www.empirecat.com	$42.0*	n/a	14
Agreed to acquire Arizona Production Machinery & Supply, Casa Grande-based agricultural machinery dealer, strengthening its ag presence. Will add Blythe, Calif., and Casa Grande, Ariz., stores. Opened new Apache Juntion, Ariz., branch with 18-acre campus and 2-acre used machine display lot, 6,000-square-foot parts warehouse, 21,600-square-foot shop, and 15,000 square feet of lube, weld and wash rack space.
34	COAST CRANE CO. (45) Seattle Dan Goodale www.coastcrane.com	$38.0	$139.0	14
Flat year over year in rental volume and 21.9-percent up in total revenue. Major dealer of Manitowoc group products, also handles JLG, Broderson, Elliott, Badger, Mantis, Little Giant and more. Rents hoists and elevators, scissors and booms, forklifts, tower cranes from Alaska to the Mexican border.
35	OHIO CAT (38) Broadview Heights, Ohio Kenneth Taylor www.ohiocat.com	$37.7*	$500.0*	8
Well-established Cat rental program navigates a wide-ranging economic climate. The exclusive Cat dealer for equipment and engines in Ohio, northern Kentucky and southeastern Indiana. The company goes back to 1945.
36	STAR RENTALS (37) Seattle Bob Kendall www.starrentals.com	$37.4	$56.2	18
Survived 24.4-percent rental volume drop in ’09, but expectations are for greater Pacific Northwest slump in ’10, as customer base’s volume of work significantly impacted with overcapacity in office, retail and warehouse sectors off 40-60 percent from ’08 levels. Launched new business initiative in Sept. ‘08 gaining some traction in industrial and governmental business sectors. Debt reduction has strengthened company. Looking to diversify product mix after heavy focus on aerial in recent years. Increasing marketing and branding efforts. Celebrating 50 years in business as Star Rentals with open houses throughout the year, as parent company marks 110 years in equipment business.
37	WAJAX INCOME FUND (41) Mississauga, Ontario Neil Manning www.wajax.com	$37.2	$476.9	31
Revenue down in every sector except government and utilities, especially construction, and conventional oil and gas sectors. Smallest decline was in Alberta’s oil sands region, an area likely to improve in 2010. Hoping for increased activity in mining and metal processing. Not expecting big turnaround in construction. Capital spending curtailed and headcount reduced by 15 percent. Total revenue dropped almost 20 percent in ’09. Plans to seek stockholder approval to reorganize company into corporate structure effective 2011.
38	SIMS CRANE & EQUIPMENT CO. (39) Tampa, Fla. Dean Sims www.simscrane.com	$35.0	$41.7	9
A 28.6-percent rental volume decline for Florida crane specialist, also strong in personnel hoists, JLG boomlifts and SkyTrak forklifts. Reaching 50-year anniversary milestone — learned a few things over the years that will likely help it through this round.
39	LOUISIANA RENTS (44) Reserve, La. Jay Dinger www.louisianamachinery.com	$34.7	n/a	9
Like most companies, rate deterioration affecting revenues. Oil and gas sectors still strong thanks to a large gas find in northern Louisiana, which has utilized a lot of earthmoving equipment. Corps of Engineers-related levee jobs still strong in New Orleans and surrounding areas. Reduced fleet size of under-utilized equipment through last quarter of 2009 and early first quarter of 2010, adding back smaller items such as pumps, small generators, light towers, small compaction equipment.
40	ESSEX CRANE RENTAL (30) Buffalo Grove, Ill. Ron Schad www.essexcrane.com	$34.6	$52.1	6
A 44-percent rental volume slide for crawler-crane rental specialist attributed to decline in utilization and, to a lesser extent, rental rates. New order commitments in quantity of cranes and total dollar amount of bookings better in first two months of ’10 than entire first quarter of 2009, fueling optimism for 2010 improvement. Essex's 350 cranes and attachments are used in construction and maintenance projects related to power generation, petro-chemical, refineries, water treatment and purification, bridges, highways, hospitals, shipbuilding, offshore oil fabrication, industrial plants and commercial construction.
41	IMPERIAL CRANE SERVICES (40) Bridgeview, Ill. B.J. Bohne www.imperialcrane.com	$34.0*	$43.5*	5
Established in 1969 by John Bohne Sr. with a single 25-ton truck crane. Now one of country’s leading family-owned crane rental service companies, catering to heavy industrial accounts such as refineries and chemical plants as well as construction and 24-hour emergency needs.
42	PUCKETT RENTS (52) Richland, Miss. Hastings Puckett www.puckettrents.com	$32.5*	n/a	4
Making decisions supporting long-term strategy rather than the short term. Has strengthened the organization over the past 18 months. Doesn’t really expect commercial construction to grow during 2010, and government can’t spend enough to offset this weakness. Cat rental program covering central and southern Mississippi.
43	MacALLISTER MACHINERY (43) Indianapolis Chris MacAllister www.macallister.com	$31.0*	n/a	12
Caterpillar dealer for 68 of Indiana’s 92 counties since 1945, with strong rental program operating since 1999. Has wide-ranging general rental inventory as well as JLG aerials and a dedicated pump-and-shoring branch.
44	MILTON CATERPILLAR (--) Milton, Mass. Steve Macridis www.miltoncat.com	$30.0*	n/a	13
New England’s leading Cat dealer now in 70th year of operation, covering Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine and upstate New York. Entered rental alliance with Taylor Rental Center in Plymouth, Mass., providing Taylor with an opportunity to rent Caterpillar equipment and enabling Milton to expand territory and market share without the overhead expense required to open a new branch. TRC divested the compact equipment machines it already owned to offer loyalty to Caterpillar.
45	TRICO LIFT (50) Millville, N.J. Ken Pustizzi www.tricolift.com	$29.5	$31.7	8
10.6-percent rental volume decline is the envy of many. Opened San Antonio branch in April 2009 and expanded into central Pennsylvania in October. Received National Petrochemical and Refiners Association's Contractor Merit Safety Award and the American Builders and Contractors Chesapeake Shores Chapter Safety Award. Employees achieved 12 consecutive months without a recordable incident for the third time. Served as a key training resource for industry training guidelines and best practices developed by several AWP trade associations.
46	NORTH CENTRAL RENTAL & LEASING, a subsidiary of Butler Machinery Co. (64) Fargo, N.D. Dan Butler www.butler-machinery.com	$29.2	n/a	12
A 7.2-percent rental volume increase, the 100’s strongest. Made deal to acquire AGCO dealer Hurtt Equipment in Hooper, N.D., joining Butler beginning July 1. Third-generation Cat dealer for North and South Dakota, and Clay County, Minn. Recently began representing Trail King trailers and added Pierre, S.D., branch.
47	ART’S RENTAL EQUIPMENT (46) Newport, Ky. Ken Arlinghaus www.artsrental.com	$28.3	$32.7	13
A 24.3-percent rental volume decline for northern Kentucky and Cincinnati-area’s leading rental player. Consolidated dispatch and delivery system, and implemented new dispatch and GPS tracking software in ’06 — an ongoing key to minimizing the company’s delivery expenses and maximizing its response time.
48	B&G EQUIPMENT & SUPPLY (51) Birmingham, Ala. Marty Hardin www.bgequipmentsupply.com	$28.0	$39.0	5
Has everything from cranes to aerials to general rentals. Opened fifth store in Prattville, Ala. Expecting flat business in ’10, with hope for a few projects that might get off the ground.
49	CASHMAN EQUIPMENT (36) Henderson, Nev. MaryKaye Cashman www.cashmanequipment.com	$27.8*	$285.0*	8
Seventh-largest privately held business in Nevada. Sales dropped by about 50 percent, and cut 25 percent of employees the past couple of years. Corporate headquarters is largest Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold-certified industrial complex in the state. Opened 8,000-square-foot North Las Vegas branch in August.
50	ADMAR SUPPLY CO. (54) Rochester, N.Y. Joel DiMarco www.admarsupply.com	$27.5	$41.6	5
10.7-percent rental volume decline first double-digit drop in company’s history. Doesn’t expect much improvement before second quarter 2011, although road and bridge work has increased in area. Will look at expansion opportunities in new markets and expanding industrial rentals. Nice feature on website that promotes achievements and recognition of customers.

jump to...

The Hardest Year Virtually everyone on the RER 100 agrees 2009 was a year they'd like to forget. But it may take time to get over this perfect storm.

1 through 25
26 through 50
51 through 75
76 through 104

Alphabetical List

Rank	Company Name (Last year’s rank) Headquarters Top Officer Website	2009 Rental Volume in Millions	2009 Total Volume in Millions	Number of Outlets
51	MODERN GROUP (47) Bristol, Pa. Dave Griffith www.moderngroup.com	$26.9	$116.8	15
Restructured business into common back ends so all locations provide rentals, parts and service. Went live with new company ERP system. Full GPS in all units and all service techs on electronic repair order and dispatch. Grew number of contracts in ’09 but rate pressure drove margin issues. Remained cash positive because of expense reductions. Has some hope of improvement in 2010 in industrial and corporate markets as they look to outsource parts and service, but slow in residential, with demand coming back first in used equipment.
52	SMS RENTS (86) Mississauga, Ontario Marcel Langlois www.smsrents.com	$26.3	$31.7	16
SMS Rents minimized impact of recession with the expansion/relocation of three stores and the addition of two new stores. Major player in Ontario and Quebec regions with plans of additional growth. Wide range of general construction and aerial equipment. New fleet of Terex trailer-mounted hydra platforms to help inspection teams deploy a guarded platform under bridges for inspection, possibly the first rental company in Canada to deploy these units, towed by standard pick-up truck.
53	LIFTING GEAR HIRE CORP. (78) Bridgeview, Ill. Tony Fiscelli www.lgh-usa.com	$26.1	$33.0	12
Opened 12th facility in Lakeland, Fla., in March, and expanded the Bridgeview, Ill., location to continue aggressive growth plans. Recently added a sales representative serving Arkansas and Oklahoma with plans of additional expansion in 2010. Constantly expanding rental fleet, including a 700-ton modular spreader beam system that allows for lift stability at longer lengths. The L&G website — www.lgh-usa.com — was re-launched this past year to provide customers with a simplified experience and new capabilities to search for products and representatives throughout the country.
54	SMS EQUIPMENT (49) Edmonton, Alberta Kelly Scott www.smsequip.com	$26.0*	n/a	7
Canada’s largest Komatsu dealer — and one of the world’s largest Komatsu dealers — with a strong rental program, particularly in Alberta’s oil sands region.
55	KELLY TRACTOR (48) Miami John Socol www.kellytractor.com	$25.9*	n/a	9
Founded by “Pop” Kelly in 1933, and has been a major Cat dealer ever since, still going strong despite south Florida’s economic slump.
56	THOMPSON PUMP (62) Port Orange, Fla. Bill Thompson www.thompsonpump.com	$25.2	$45.0*	20
An 8.4-percent rental volume decline beats industry averages by far. Pump specialist not expecting much improvement in 2010. Anticipating small increases in energy-related projects — exploration, recovery, transmission, production and distribution, but lack of housing and commercial construction make it a continuing struggle for Thompson. Recently added products such as Flygt electric submersible pumps to meet broader needs of existing customers and expand range of potential customers. Reconfigured job descriptions of sales staff and expanded requirements in candidates for new positions. Many underground utility customers waiting for projects to be funded; some put businesses into “hibernation” rather take jobs below cost.
57	KIRBY-SMITH MACHINERY (--) Oklahoma City Ed Kirby www.kirby-smith.com	$25.0	n/a	9
First-time listee acquired former RER 100 company Continental Equipment with its five Texas locations. Large diverse rental fleet includes 130-ton capacity rough-terrain cranes, 10,000-pound compact track loaders, earthmoving machines, boom trucks, compactors, brooms, air compressors and more. Authorized dealers for Komatsu, Manitowoc and Grove cranes, National boom trucks, Bomag and Hamm compactors, Dressta, LeeBoy, Wirtgen, Gradall excavators, Broce brooms, Rosco and others.
58	EMECO NORTH AMERICA (42) Houston Keith Gordon www.emecoequipment.com	$24.5*	$35.0*	5
Decided to exit Appalachian coal mining region, not getting the returns the company wanted. Will now run U.S. and Canadian operations out of Edmonton, where the company will concentrate on the Canadian oil sands market and look to spread earnings on a project basis in other key mining regions in Canada and the U.S., consolidating operations now in hopes of expanding later. Also pulled out of European operations, remaining active in Indonesia and Australia.
59	HAWTHORNE RENT-IT SERVICE (58) San Marcos, Calif. Mike Carcioppolo www.hawthornecat.com	$24.5	n/a	6
18.1-percent rental volume decline not bad considering the hit southern California has taken, especially in the earthmoving market. Also a Cat dealer in Hawaii, Guam, American Samoa. Probably the first Cat dealer to embrace rental, back in the 50s.
60	STOWERS MACHINERY (69) Knoxville, Tenn. Wes Stowers www.stowerscat.com	$24.4	n/a	5
Only a 3.2-percent rental volume drop for strong eastern Tennessee Caterpillar dealer, celebrating 50th year in business. Expects slight improvement in ’10, particularly in second half. Closed a branch, reduced fleet and cut staff to prepare for improved 2010 financial performance. Incorporating more timely and accurate reporting tools.
61	YANCEY BROTHERS (53) Austell, Ga. Trey Googe www.yanceybros.com	$24.3*	n/a	12
A Caterpillar dealer since 1912, but not standing pat. Acquired All Star International Trucks, and D&M International Sales, getting four locations in southern Georgia and enhancing its position in truck and engine markets. It also obtained a sales and service agreement with Navistar, authorized International dealer in southwestern, south central Georgia. International Truck and Engine Corp., is a manufacturer and marketer of medium and heavy trucks and mid-range diesel engines.
62	COWIN EQUIPMENT CO. (63) Birmingham, Ala. James Cowin www.cowin.com	$24.0	$100.0*	7
A 12.4-percent rental volume decrease, not bad for long-time Alabama dealer with well-established rental capability. While not expecting much improvement, sees a couple of positives: stimulus projects should be more plentiful, and desire of contractors to rent instead of purchase is likely to be strong. Took on Doosan’s portable products line, building on a relationship with Ingersoll Rand that goes back 70 years. Also took on Bomag products.
63	WORLDWIDE RENTAL SERVICES (55) Aurora, Colo. Mike Rooney www.worldwidemachinery.com	$23.4*	n/a	7
Living up to Worldwide moniker, supplied 35 units to Lima branch in support of a pipeline project in Brazil. Moved into Las Vegas, opening its fourth branch in past two years, after Grand Junction, Colo., Casper, Wyo., and Hobbs, N.M.
64	ACME LIFT CO. (56) Mesa, Ariz. Woody Weld www.acmelift.com	$22.5	$28.5	1
25-percent rental volume decline for aerial re-rental specialist. Expects slight rebound in ’10 with boosts in oil and gas production and refining, slight return of commodity and mineral business spending, healthcare facilities, bridgework, governmental, some industrial. Formed five-member advisory board and named highly regarded rental veteran Brian Rich, former vice chairman of Sunbelt and co-chairman and executive director of NationsRent, as its chairman and equity partner.
65	GREGORY POOLE EQUIPMENT CO. (59) Raleigh, N.C. Gregory Poole III www.gregorypoole.com	$22.2	$247.7	11
Electric power generation and industrial engines division moving from Raleigh to new location in Garner, N.C., will share facility with truck and RV service division. Covers eastern areas of North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia, with N.C. being full service and S.C. and Virginia only lift truck. 23.4-percent rental volume decrease right in line with RER 100 average.
66	AERIAL ACCESS EQUIPMENT (75) Baton Rouge, La. Gene Torrence www.aae-la.com	$21.5	$24.3	4
Only a 6.9-percent rental volume slip for Gulf Coast-based aerial specialist, expecting 2010 to be salvageable because of several mega-projects. Industrial work is mainstay of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama market area. Facing grim rate environment.
67	CLAIREMONT EQUIPMENT (60) San Diego Jerry Zagami www.clairemontequipment.com	$21.3	n/a	6
Veteran Komatsu and JLG dealer with wide-ranging inventory including tools, compaction equipment, generators, plumbing equipment, saws, scaffolding, asphalt recyclers, dozers, excavators, reach forklifts and aerials. 25-percent rental volume decline not surprising in current climate.
67	MIDWEST AERIALS & EQUIPMENT (71) St. Louis Daniel Tumminello www.midwestaerials.com	$21.3	$25.3	4
Didn’t really feel the recession until late in ’09, got hit hard enough for 14.8-percent rental volume drop. Took advantage of the slowdown to downsize fleet. Got new online parts system up and moving. Not expecting big improvement in ’10 but some new projects might come out of the ground with the warm weather.
69	PETERSON TRACTOR (66) San Leandro, Calif. Dan Michie www.petersontractor.com	$21.2*	$50.0*	10
74-year-old Caterpillar holding its own well in challenged northern California marketplace.
70	SKYWORKS (76) Buffalo, N.Y. Jerry Reinhart www.skyworksllc.com	$20.5	$26.0	8
Opened branch in Albany, N.Y., in late 2009, the company’s eighth location. Expects similar ’10 results, hoping for fourth-quarter boost. Has locations in Ohio, Virginia and Pennsylvania in addition to upstate New York.
71	SPIDER, DIV. OF SAFEWORKS (70) Tukwila, Wash. John Sotiroff www.spiderstaging.com	$20.3	$41.0	24
Introduced 18 new products for sale and rent. Earned record largest sale in company’s history. Maintained top 10 rental customer revenue at 2008 level. Continued push into wind turbine maintenance market. Published fleet preparation standards to improve customers’ rental experience across Spider network. Seattle Spider pioneered welding protection for drum hoist and traction hoist powered swing stages before it was the law. 19.1-percent rental volume decrease.
72	TEMP-AIR (56) Burnsville, Minn. Jim Korn www.temp-air.com	$19.6	$26.8	11
Focused additional efforts on the manufacturing and sales of equipment to supplement rental division. Redeveloped its line of Topaz Portable Air Conditioners released in early 2010 using environmentally friendly R-410A refrigerant. Finished the year manufacturing electric heating units for the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. Celebrating 45th year of continuous service in 2010.
73	WESTERNONE EQUITY INCOME FUND (81) Vancouver, B.C. Darren Latoski www.weq.ca	$19.3	$41.7	10
Raised $27.6 million Canadian convertible debentures from public offering in Feb. 2010. Ranked No. 84 in the Business in Vancouver Top 100 Public Companies, a ranking of the 100 fastest-growing Canadian public companies, based on 2008 revenues. Has acquired seven leading equipment rental and propane-distribution companies since IPO in 2006, including Calgary-based On*Site Equipment, finalized last month. Still seeking to acquire equipment- and infrastructure-related businesses, primarily in Western Canada.
74	HUGG & HALL EQUIPMENT (74) Little Rock, Ark. John Hugg/Robert Hall www.hugghall.com	$19.0	$75.0	8
Opened new rental business in Jonesboro, Ark., catering to all of Northeast Arkansas contractors and industry. Now a full-line dealer for Volvo paving equipment and Manitou material handling equipment, no longer representing Hitachi/Euclid construction and mining equipment. Has 110 factory-trained ASE-certified technicians, 80 equipped with vehicles to perform 90 percent of repairs in the field. Has millions of dollars of parts inventory. Strong in aerial and smaller items such as concrete saws, submersible pumps and generators up to 175 KVA. Has strong niche in mobile storage as well.
75	DIAMOND RENTAL (78) Salt Lake City Mark Clawson www.diamondrental.com	$18.0	$20.0	16
18-percent rental volume decline for one of leading rental players in Intermountain region. Hoping to expand more once economy turns around. Increasing marketing efforts in 2010, with increased ad dollars and a facility facelift project across all locations.

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The Hardest Year Virtually everyone on the RER 100 agrees 2009 was a year they'd like to forget. But it may take time to get over this perfect storm.

1 through 25
26 through 50
51 through 75
76 through 104

Alphabetical List

Rank	Company Name (Last year’s rank) Headquarters Top Officer Website	2009 Rental Volume in Millions	2009 Total Volume in Millions	Number of Outlets
76	ECCO EQUIPMENT CORP. (65) Santa Ana, Calif. David Schmid www.eccoequipment.com	$18.0	$22.0	12
Heavy earthmoving specialist endured a 32.6-percent rental volume drop, but reduced fleet and size will help position company for healthier 2010. Opened Alberta, Canada, operation.
77	HALTON RENTAL (82) Portland, Ore. Tanner Halton www.haltonrental.com	$16.8*	--	7
Not expecting much improvement in 2010 as recession ravages Pacific Northwest.
78	SOUTHEASTERN EQUIPMENT (77) Cambridge, Ohio William Baker www.southeasternequip.com	$15.8	$77.0	19
30-percent rental volume decrease for Southeastern, a Case dealer since its founding in 1957. Now a dealer for numerous lines, recently adding Vacall products and Eagle crushing equipment.
79	DELTA RIGGING & TOOLS (87) Broussard, La. Kevin Rodgers www.deltarigging.com	$15.7*	$107.0*	14
Approximate 14-percent rental volume drop for hoisting, winching and rigging specialists, which includes companies such as Industrial Hoist Services, Delta Wire Rope, B&H Air Tools, American Sling, Port Rentals and several other wire rope specialists.
80	DEAN RENTAL SERVICES (84) Kansas City, Mo. Lori Dean www.deancat.com	$15.0*	--	5
Kansas City Cat dealer still going strong. Partnered with Tectura Corp. to implement NAXT, a solution developed on Microsoft Dynamics, streamlining and consolidating a dealer system on a single platform including finance, accounting, human resources, equipment sales and rental, parts, service and power systems. New headquarters is an environmental pace-setter for the equipment industry.
81	PUERTO RICO WIRE (88) San Juan, P.R. Jose Cestero www.puertoricowire.com	$14.5*	--	4
Puerto Rico Wire Group includes forming systems and construction supply company. Rental services include aerials, traffic control and trench safety equipment, welding equipment, forklifts, excavators, scaffolding, pressure washers, earthmoving equipment air compressors and more.
82	STRONGCO EQUIPMENT (89) Mississauga, Ontario Robert Dryburgh www.strongco.com	$14.3	$289.1	5
Despite downturn, improved profitability of Strongco’s core business by rationalizing branch network and disposing of a non-strategic business. Revenues increased in Ontario, but declines in Alberta and eastern Canada. Was Volvo CE’s largest volume dealer for North America, and largest producer of financing at retail level. Signed agreement with Morbark to be its dealer in western Canada, where it has five Alberta locations, and will represent Skyjack telehandlers in Ontario. Also inked deal to take on Dressta crawler dozers in Quebec, Maritimes and southern Alberta.
83	HOLT OF CALIFORNIA (68) Pleasant Grove, Calif. John Johnson holtca.com	$14.2*	n/a	14
Tough year for north central California Cat dealer, with 2010 not starting off any better. Historic photo gallery on website well worth a look.
84	SNOOK EQUIPMENT RENTAL (83) Morris, Ill. Larry Snook www.snookequipment.net	$14.1	$23.3	5
A 28-percent rental volume shows the Midwest gets hit just as hard in a recession. A family business that still gets it done in blue jeans; offers general rental and a crane division.
85	ANDERSON EQUIPMENT CO. (96) Bridgeville, Pa. Judy Anderson www.andersonequip.com	$14.0	n/a	18
Acquired R.C. Hazelton in November ’09, the Komatsu dealer in Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Territory now includes 18 locations serving upper New England, upstate New York, western Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Developing green practices that improve the environment and help the bottom line at the same time.
86	PATTEN INDUSTRIES (61) Elmhurst, Ill. Crain Patten www.pattenindustries.com	$13.7	n/a	7
Considering new product area to enhance revenue as recession takes its toll in the upper Midwest. Not expecting much turnaround in ’10. Collaborated with customer Plote Construction, employing Cat technology and ARRA funds to restore three aging wheel loaders with green technology to more than 50-percent lower emissions, keeping 10 technicians employed on a four-month project.
87	BERRY COMPANIES (92) Wichita, Kan. Walter Berry www.berrycompaniesinc.com	$13.5	$131.0	26
Purchased Bobcat of Dallas, Fort Worth, and Longview, Texas, in Dec. 2009. More optimistic about sectors other than commercial or residential, such as agriculture, oil and gas, while rural areas doing better than cities. Rental down about 15 percent, but sales down 35. Expanded into Dallas market with Bobcat. Had to reduce employment 25 percent, closed three branches.
88	ROLLS SCAFFOLD & HIGH REACH (85) Ventura, Calif. Michael Rolls www.rollsscaffold.com	$13.4	$13.8	5
A 30-percent rental revenue decline, par for the California course. Added locations in Irwindale, east of Los Angeles, and San Diego. Hoping for some increases in third and fourth quarter and into 2011. Has solid safety training program.
89	RED MOUNTAIN MACHINERY (80) Chandler, Ariz. Owen Cowing www.redmountain.com	$13.0*	n/a	3
Not an easy time for heavy earthmoving specialist Red Mountain, in southwest markets with moribund housing construction markets. Specializes in rental of Caterpillar earthmoving equipment. Entered bankruptcy protection last fall, telling customers that the equipment-intensive company found reduced demand eliminated equity in equipment fleets. Still working and providing service, expects to emerge financially stronger as market rebounds.
90	CAPITAL RENTALS (91) Dulles, Va. Brian Vaughan www.capitalrentals.com	$12.5*	$16.0*	7
Forty years in business for D.C.-area rental company.
91	ROLAND MACHINERY (93) Springfield, Ill. Ray Roland www.rolandmachinery.com	$12.1	$73.5	15
25-percent rental volume drop was last year’s normal in the upper Midwest. Company survived and still made some money, with some layoffs, furloughs, 32-hour work weeks in some shops. Matt Roland is now president.
92	RENTAL ONE (90) Fort Worth, Texas Don O’Neal www.rentalonestore.com	$12.0*	$14.5*	6
Not expecting much improvement in commercial sector, its key market. Created strong market presence encircling Dallas/Ft. Worth metroplex. Has sister company Supply Depot carrying construction supplies.
93	PIONEER EQUIPMENT RENTAL (98) Ponca City, Okla. Larry Redwine, John Redwine www.pioneerrental.net	$11.4	$17.8	9
Opened new location in north Tulsa in March. A 12.3-percent rental volume decline for Oklahoma-based 10-year-old company. Authorized dealer for Terex and Genie, Magnum and Hustler, representing numerous other lines.
94	BIRCH EQUIPMENT RENTALS & SALES (--) Sarah Rothenbuhler Bellingham, Wash. www.birchequipment.com	$11.0*	n/a	4
Has branches in Bellingham, Mt. Vernon and Anacortes, Wash., and Sitka, Alaska. Representatives spoke to students at college programs to help women try out non-traditional skills and explore careers in trade and technical field. Has more than 40,000 pieces of equipment in its general rental/construction inventory. Offering extensive series of operator-training classes, particularly on Genie scissors and booms and Gehl reach forklifts.
95	ILLINI HI-REACH (97) Lemont, Ill. Larry Workman www.hi-reach.com	$10.7	$13.5	2
Aerial rental specialist with strong industrial clientele throughout Chicagoland and northwest Indiana, but not enough work to avoid a 22.5-percent rental volume decline. Has done well with used equipment sales to the international market. While cost-cutting measures have been necessary, Illini remains committed to expanding footprint of company’s capabilities in parts, service, safety training, customer coverage and contact frequency. Has about 1,000 JLG units in fleet.
96	ABLE EQUIPMENT RENTAL (105) Copiague, N.Y. Dolores Lagunas www.ableequipment.com	$10.2	$13.9	2
Power rental division providing back-up power for several New York-area hospitals, and provided multiple generators to customers in the New York City, Long Island and New Jersey areas after rainstorm left a million utility customers without power during recent storms. Made the 2009 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in the U.S. Also operates rigging contractor division.
97	THEROS EQUIPMENT (106) Gainesville, Va. Joel Theros www.therosequipment.com	$9.8	$12.2	4
After years of running a productive dealership, Theros decided what the company did best was rental and discontinued dealership commitments. While still servicing New Holland and other manufacturers’ equipment, rental is the primary activity in metro D.C. central and northern Virginia marketplace, an area with still-huge potential for growth. A hands-on, hard-working, day-to-day operating leadership style keeps Theros in touch with the pulse of the business and customer’s needs.
98	ILLINOIS TRUCK & EQUIPMENT (--) Morris, Ill. Rolf Helland www.iltruck.com	$9.3	$30.6	1
First-time listee recently celebrated 20-year anniversary and acquired Stanley/LaBounty product line. Also handles Kobelco, New Holland, JLG/Skytrak and more.
99	METROLIFT (101) Sugar Grove, Ill. Rick Dahl www.metrolift.com	$9.0	14.8	1
Rented an additional 30,000-square-foot building to house wholesale and retail sales division, an investment that is already paying off. Invested more than $2 million in rental fleet assets in 2009. Recently supplied a Genie Z80 boomlift to install new banners that flank the Chicago Cubs marquis in front of Wrigley Field. Some customers doing well in hospital, bridges, utility work but commercial jobs still far from recovery. Checking out Twitter and Facebook for marketing possibilities.
100	COLORADO MACHINERY (94) Colorado Springs, Colo. Keith Olson www.coloradomachinery.com	$8.8	n/a	5
45-percent rental volume decline for veteran Deere dealership, also handling Ingersoll-Rand, Bobcat, Dynapac, Gradall, Skytrak and more.
101	24/7 STUDIO EQUIPMENT (111) Burbank, Calif. Lance Sorenson www.247studioequipment.com	$8.4	$8.4	1
Although revenues declined in 2009, things are looking up with more movie and TV production scheduled for the L.A. area.
102	RENTALMAX (114) Wheaton, Ill. Terry Hagy www.rentalmax.com	$8.1	$8.8	10
Developing new processes and procedures, expanding equipment sales. Project calculator is a nice website feature.
103	ALL STAR RENTS (113) Fairfield, Calif. Ken de Vries www.allstarrents.com	$7.9	$8.4	10
Tough business climate with the added California Air Resources Board regulations make it a tough time to do business in California. Moved into former Hertz Big 4 facility in Novato.
104	PDQ RENTALS (111) Santa Fe Springs, Calif. Dennis Turner www.pdqrentals.com	$7.8	$11.0	2
Distributors for Komatsu Utility, JLG telehandlers, Wacker, American Honda Power Equipment, Skyjack and Huskie Hammers. Todd Turner, third generation, promoted to general manager in 2009.