Hire and Rental News - May 2019

President’s message ASSOCIATION NEWS New technology, new competition, new opportunities I was grateful again for the opportunity to attend the American Rental Association (ARA) Show and Global Rental Alliance board meeting in Anaheim recently. Approximately 8,000 attended the convention over the weekend in February; delivering dozens of workshops and seminars. Then on the Monday, the exhibition, with more than 700 exhibitors, was open for business. It was overwhelming to say the least. One thing that stood out was how the suppliers were intent on making sales at this show. One access company sold over 3 million dollars on day one. A big focus for the ARA this year was on new technology; telematics for access equipment are now being offered by almost every OEM and new rental software programs and upgrades are a critical part of the show for any serious rental firm, some of which will also be at HIRE19. ARA members have very similar issues to those of the HRIA, but on a grander scale; such as finding and retaining staff and maintaining sustainable rental rates. Heavy snowfall through winter have played havoc with rental operations. With some needing to achieve 12 months turnover in just 9 months to make up lost revenue; staying viable during these times has been a major problem for some companies. I was very interested in finding out more about online rental providers in the US. Speaking with an ARA committee member, I was told that in the last 5 years, 56 online rental providers had applied to become members of their association. At our Global Rental Alliance meeting one of the latest players, based in America, told us they will be in Canada within 6 months and looking at Australia within 18 months. Our position remains one where safety for end users is best safeguarded when machines are traded through face-to-face transactions; particularly when legal compliance plays a part. But, as always, we will take each membership application on its merit. Our Association is working hard to keep all our members informed on the progress, and possible impact online rental providers could have on our industry. It is always sad to hear when someone passes away. Chris Taylor’s sudden death on Vale Ralph Walker Another one of the Association’s long standing industry members has passed on, taking a wealth of information and industry knowledge with him. It is with much sadness the HRIA informed members of the passing of HRIA Life Member Ralph Walker. Ralph passed away at home on Tuesday, 13 February surrounded by his wife Julie and daughters. The funeral was held on 19 February. Ralph entered the hire and rental industry with Crown Equipment, moving to Coates in 1988. Ralph served on the South Australian and Queensland HRIA committees including time as President for the Association in both states and was involved with the formation of the EWPA. Ralph’s proudest achievement was becoming a Life Member of the HRIA and believed hard work and integrity is the recipe for success. ‘Live the dream, realise your full potential and love life.’ The HRIA and all its members extend our deepest sympathies to Ralph’s family and friends at this sad time. n Vale Chris Taylor It is with immense sadness we report the sudden passing of our TSHA President Chris Taylor in February. Apart from his tenure as the TSHA President, Chris had a lengthy affiliation with the EWPA and TSHA with significant involvement in the development and maintenance of the Gold Card and Yellow Card training programs. Chris’ dedication and commitment to the TSHA has been one of the major driving forces behind our world first Association’s achievements. Chris’ involvement and role within the TSHA will be sorely missed and we feel his passing incalculably. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends at this terrible time. n February 15th is a reminder to all how fragile life is. Chris will be greatly missed. We also received notice of HRIA life member Ralph Walker passing away and their contributions to our industry will never be forgotten. On a happier note, HIRE19 is shaping up to be another fantastic Convention, with 4 halls of the MCEC packed to the rafters; this is a great opportunity for us all to catch up and check out all the new, innovative equipment and technology on offer and to share the latest ideas and news that help you get the most out of your business, so don’t forget to look at all the member benefits and workshops in this year’s program. If you haven’t already, make sure you register for HIRE19, 22-23 May in Melbourne. I look forward to seeing you all there. Mark Burton HRIA National President Ralph Walker was an HRIA life member and will be sadly missed P4 HIRE AND RENTAL NEWS MAY 2019