Josh Thompson, Managing Director, GR8 Tool Hire Ltd

Elected to the HAE Tools, Plant and Equipment Board 2022

“I started in the industry as a Relief Driver at Speedy Asset Services in 2009. Whilst there I applied for every Managerial role I came across. I finally got noticed on the umpteenth application and became a depot manager in 2011, aged 22.

Following on from 2 successful years in this position I realised there was a gap in the market locally for a hire company catering to the small builders and DIY customers. After putting together a business plan and securing the initial financing GR8 Tool Hire opened its doors in 2013.

The company has gone from strength to strength and in 2017 we were given the opportunity to purchase a failing hire company which we jumped on. This increased our presence to 3 branches in total up and down the M11 and we were able to turnaround the fortunes at these 2 locations. GR8 currently has 27 members of staff, 17 vehicles and healthy £3m Turnover.

Further expansion is in the pipeline with a brand new, bespoke depot currently being built in Saffron Walden, Essex.”

As you can see on the link below there is such a vast amount of knowledge and experience across the different Boards of HAE spanning both National Companies and Independents alike. This position on the Board of HAE not only allows me to further my knowledge but also allows me to communicate and pass on what I have learnt over the years to others in the Tool Hire Industry. https://www.hae.org.uk/meet-the-board/