One Thing: Thomas and David Smith

15 March 2024

Continuing the series asking industry professionals which single change or development would make a significant difference in business, the blog talks to Thomas (pictured left) and David Smith, Managing Directors of the Blackpool-based independent Smiths Equipment Hire. The company currently has 16 depots across the north of England, a growing re-hire business plus a successful training operation, and celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2020.  

THE ONE THING  that would help our industry would be if every company realised that there is a certain hire rate for equipment that you cannot sensibly go below. 

It’s the age-old problem. If companies simply compete on price, then it just isn’t a level playing field. You should be judged according to the quality of your equipment, people and service. 

We all realise that there has to be some element of give and take regarding rates, but sometimes the difference is so great that you wonder how some companies can remain profitable. 

And how can they then reinvest for the future for the longer term? A hire business has to differentiate itself by something other than just hire rates. 

● Check out the Site-Eco area of the blog for news of sustainable products and developments relevant to the world of hire.

And use the Search Function to find earlier stories on specific people, products and companies.