Preparing to Surface

27 July 2020

A paradox emerged for some people following the lockdown. Homeowners and builders wanted to hire equipment for tasks in the home and around the garden, but many had to eventually postpone the hire because they could not source materials needed for the job.

Shortages were caused when builders’ merchants closed until restrictions eased, and manufacturers of items like bricks and plasterboard needed time to restart production.

“It all created a lot of inconvenience for people,” recalled Nick Forbes, Director of the specialist hirer WH Surface Preparation UK, which is based in Risca, south Wales, and has three other depots in England. The Risca location also offers small tools and equipment.

Supply chain disruptions

“We ourselves experienced delays in sourcing some machines and spares, as well as when re-hiring certain items, because of disruptions in the supply chain.

“We have a cloud-based telephone system and it was easy for us to route calls to a central point, and we were able to give messages informing and updating customers about our opening hours and the services available,” said Nick.

“Things are on the up now as more sites re-open. We will be investing in our fleet, as you always have to in hire, and lead times from suppliers are getting better. But we are restricting ordering equipment in quantity until after the furlough scheme ends in October, when the broader picture will be clearer.”