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RentalMax Expands into Indiana with Acquisition of Regional Rentals & Sales

March 24, 2022
RentalMax, a multi-branch general equipment rental company in Chicagoland, last month acquired Regional Rentals & Sales in Hobart, Ind.

RentalMax, a multi-branch general equipment rental company in Chicagoland, last month acquired Regional Rentals & Sales in Hobart, Ind. The acquisition will continue the tradition of equipment rental established by former owner Steve Franz and his family. The acquisition gives RentalMax, headquartered in Carol Stream, Ill., nine store locations serving the Greater Chicagoland area. This is its first location in Indiana, which RentalMax sees as an extension of its current market.

The new Northwest Indiana location will provide additional convenience to RentalMax customers, along with the equipment expertise and same day availability they are accustomed to at RentalMax stores.

“We are thrilled to announce the newest RentalMax location in Hobart,” said John Jeanguenat, president. “We pride ourselves on providing great equipment and personalized service to our loyal customer base, and our customers are at the center of every decision we make. RentalMax has been serving customers in Northwest Indiana for many years, and this gives our customers a go-to store right in the heart of the region. We look forward to serving the loyal customers who have frequented Regional Rentals & Sales in Hobart for more than 30 years.”

Franz to stay with Rentalmax

RentalMax will operate out of the facility that Regional Rentals & Sales opened in 1990, and Franz and his staff will continue with RentalMax with Franz continuing to work at the Hobart branch. The business was originally founded by Franz’s dad, William Franz, and uncle, Fred Scherschel, in 1976, in Merrillville, Ind.

“It has been a pleasure working with Steve Franz to bring this acquisition together,” said Jeanguenat. “He and his team have established a great tradition and culture over more than three decades. We look forward to working with the Hobart team to build on that tradition and leverage the strengths of the RentalMax network.”

Franz said: “After 42 years, a lifetime of service in the rental business, it is now time to enjoy new avenues of life. The RentalMax team prides themselves with commitment to customer service and a positive work environment. I look forward to contributing to a smooth transition, which will provide the excellence that our customers expect.”

Now celebrating its 25th year, RentalMax is the largest general equipment rental company in the Chicago area, the company said, serving professional contractors, industrial businesses and do-it-yourselfers. RentalMax features quality rental equipment from brands like Bobcat, Ditch Witch, NiftyLift, Skyjack, Vermeer, Wacker Neuson and more.