The Passionate Hirer Awards returned on the evening of the first day of the Executive Hire Show on Tuesday 11 February, bringing together around 200 exhibitors and senior figures from across the hire sector for an evening of recognition, reflection and celebration.
Hosted by England rugby star David ‘Flats’ Flatman, the ceremony took place in front of a packed room and a lively audience, setting the tone for an awards night focused on the businesses and people raising standards across the industry.
Entries for the awards are reviewed by an independent panel of judges and assessed against a wide range of criteria, including presentation and welcome, staff knowledge and enthusiasm, efficiency in handling orders and enquiries, cleanliness and quality of fleet, marketing and outreach activity, and notable innovations.
In the Single Depot category, the shortlist included Hire Services Southern, recognised for its well-stocked showroom, thriving sales sideline and measured approach to future development. The judges praised the business for its consistent performance and for quietly refining its offer while staying true to its roots.
Also shortlisted was Kellaway Hire Services, a familiar part of Bristol’s daily rhythm for decades under the leadership of Michael O’Donnell. With fresh kit, strong local roots and a personal approach, the company now runs a fleet of 18 mini diggers up to three tonnes and was one of the earliest adopters of Syrinx.
AHC Tool Hire in Alloa completed the Single Depot shortlist, noted for its relaxed, tidy and professional operation and a strong reputation built over nearly 40 years. With Managing Director Barry Macpherson overseeing a major fleet expansion, the judges highlighted a business well-positioned for its next chapter, built on preparation, pride and quietly ambitious progress.
In the Multi Depot category, Alied Hire Services was shortlisted following an extraordinary period for the business. After a lithium iron battery fire on Boxing Day 2022 tore through its Bristol depot, causing extensive damage to the building and the loss of around a quarter of a million pounds’ worth of equipment, the company’s response stood out. The judges pointed to the resilience, clarity of purpose and determination of the team to recover and move forward, summed up by Managing Director Brett Thompson’s “keep calm and carry on” approach.
Also shortlisted in the Multi Depot category was South West Hire and Sales, a well-established West Country business known for offering strong value for money alongside a wide and practical range of hire equipment. The judges highlighted the company’s ability to serve a broad mix of customers with the right kit for the job, backed by a straightforward, no-fuss approach that has helped build a loyal customer base across the region.
Following a strong field of finalists, the winners were then announced, with Allied Hire Services taking the Multi Depot award and Hire Services Southern named winner of the Single Depot category.
Chris Moore, Publishing and Event Director, said: “The Passionate Hirer Awards are about recognising the businesses that quietly get the basics right, day in, day out, while still finding ways to improve, invest and move the sector forward. The standard of entries this year was high, and both the winners and the shortlisted companies should be proud of what they’ve achieved.”
The evening concluded with the presentation of an "Industry Legend" Award Josh Llewellyn, Chairman of Gaia Group and MHM Group, in recognition of his long-standing contributions to the sector and his support for the show. For over 50 years, his businesses have focused on providing solar, battery and hybrid solutions, alongside generators, lighting towers and welfare cabins to the global market, with a strong emphasis on the construction and rental industries. He has also built and grown multiple businesses from start-up through to sustained growth, while continuing to champion practical, lower-impact site solutions.
With a strong shortlist, clear winners and a room full of industry peers, the Passionate Hirer Awards once again highlighted the depth of quality, resilience and ambition across the hire sector.
The night ended on a high note with a charity auction that brought the room together for a great cause. Altrad Belle donated a Stihl power saw, which sparked a lively bidding battle before Hire Base Managing Director Adrian Watts secured the winning bid at £2,000. All proceeds from the auction were donated to a Prostate Cancer charity, adding a feel-good finale to an evening already celebrating the best of the hire sector.
Chris concluded, "Thanks to our sponsors, The Hire Exchange, HAE (Hire Association Europe), and Altrad Belle Light Construction Equipment, for their support of the event. Their backing helped make the day happen and we appreciate them being involved."