Northgate makes multi-million pound investment in South East

NORTHGATE Vehicle Hire is making a concerted push into the South East market with new depots in Luton and Brent Cross imminent.

The firm, which has depots in Birmingham, Cannock, Coventry, Kidderminster, Stoke-on-Trent, and Telford, says it is set to increase its number of UK sites significantly over the next four years.

And Northgate says that it has nearly completed a recruitment programme to increase the size of its regional sales force by 50% – to more than 90 across the UK – to support the anticipated growth.

CEO Bob Contreras said: “There have been some difficult times over the last 24 months but also some key learnings.

“One such learning was our Irish operation where we’re now performing at a 15% growth rate per annum and are actually more profitable than we were pre-recession, despite the difficulties faced by many Irish businesses in the current market.

“Behavioural change brought about by the recession has also had a huge impact on our customers, with the concept of renting increasing as a more favourable option to purchasing in the UK.

“Throughout the UK and Ireland, we have made it through a tough transition, invested in local teams who understand the local markets and are now prospering thanks to the experience we’ve gained.”