Knowsley-based A Mini Crane Hire has rebranded as AMC and is investing in new equipment and jobs as it looks to expand further across the UK. Tony McDonough reports

A Merseyside crane hire business has revealed its plans for UK-wide expansion and has unveiled a new name.

A Mini Crane Hire, which has its headquarters in Knowsley and a second depot in London, was founded in 2009 by Peter Piekarus. Following a sale of the business in September for a seven-figure sum, the firm will now be known as AMC.

Experienced business owner and manager, Mark Davenport, has acquired the company from Mr Piekarus, who remains as a director. On completion of the deal he announced a £1.5m in new cranes, equipment and people. Now he revealed further details of his plans.

AMC comprises a fleet and is a supplier to short and long-term construction projects in different parts of the country. Sales have returned to pre-COVID-19 lockdown levels with annual turnover projected to exceed £5m. It currently employs 38 people.

Mr Davenport’s plan for the next five years will see AMC expand further across the UK and develop a stronger management team. Already, there has been substantial investment to refurbish the entire existing fleet, which is ongoing for the next month or two.

Additional new equipment, including 11 all-electric cranes, and several all-electric tracked carriers, are either delivered or due very shortly. Also, seven fully electric or plug-in hybrid cars are arriving to refresh the vehicle fleet.

AMC’s fleet comprises more than 60 mini spider cranes, and more than 80 glazing robots and floor cranes. Mr Davenport said: “As for many, March to May was a real challenge but we knuckled down and by August sales had recovered well. Projects that were put on hold due to the first lockdown have now been completed, and I am pleased to say we are now back on track.

“We have proven to be an agile and resilient business in difficult times and the rebrand sets out to reflect our confidence. The new brand identity is strong, vibrant, fresh and fun – everything we are about, and we hope it resonates with our customers, existing and new, as much as it does with our fantastic workforce.

“Looking ahead, my main priorities for AMC are focused and clear – to further develop our reputation in the market as a brand leader, known for strong safety credentials and customer service, and to further develop our passionate and highly skilled team so they continue to thrive both professionally and personally.

“By December/January we will have welcomed 11 fully electric-powered cranes and three fully electric VW Golfs for engineers and four BMW 330e hybrids for sales. Also, our existing fleet will have been fully refurbished. These are very exciting times for AMC and our workforce.”

Mr Davenport also said there is ongoing investment in sales and marketing communications, including a brand-new website (also being launched this month), and much improved systems to enhance information flow and drive growth.