• Lower upfront costs: Save on large budget investments with affordable hiring options.
• Flexibility: Access a wide range of equipment suited to your project’s changing needs.
• Quick delivery and support: Get the equipment you need, delivered promptly, with 1-2-1 customer service.
• No maintenance hassle: We handle all repairs and upkeep, so you can focus on your project.
• Cost-effective: Pay only for what you use, reducing long-term financial commitment.

Renting vs Buying: Overview

Renting equipment offers a more affordable and flexible solution compared to buying, especially for construction projects with varying demands. While purchasing requires a significant upfront investment, renting allows you to access the equipment you need without tying up your capital. Whether you need machinery for a few days or several months, renting ensures you only pay for the duration of use, making it an ideal option for short-term or unpredictable projects. Plus, with rental, you have the freedom to upgrade to the latest models without worrying about depreciation or resale value.

Financial Considerations

When renting equipment, the initial cost is much lower than purchasing, which can be a major benefit for businesses operating on tight budgets or managing multiple projects. With rentals, you eliminate the burden of ongoing expenses like maintenance, storage, and insurance, which can add up quickly for equipment owners. Renting also allows for easier budgeting, as costs are predictable and spread over the rental period. On the other hand, buying equipment ties up capital, and you bear all the operational costs, which can significantly affect your bottom line in the long run.

Maintenance & Operational Costs

One of the biggest advantages of renting equipment is the relief from maintenance and repair responsibilities. When you rent from us, we ensure that the equipment is in excellent working condition, with all servicing and repairs handled by our team. This eliminates the unexpected costs and downtime associated with owning machinery, which can impact your project timelines. Oh, and it goes without saying, you won’t have to worry about storage or transportation logistics, as we offer quick delivery and pickup, saving you both time and money.

Project Duration and Frequency

For short-term or one-off projects, renting equipment is far more cost-effective than buying. If your construction project only requires a particular machine for a limited time, why invest in expensive equipment that may sit idle afterward? Renting allows you to scale up or down based on your project’s needs. For frequent, long-term use, buying might seem more attractive initially, but the costs of ownership, including maintenance, storage and eventual depreciation, often outweigh the benefits. Renting gives you the flexibility to access the equipment you need, exactly when you need it.

Environmental and Sustainability Impact

Renting equipment can also be the more environmentally friendly option. When you rent, you’re participating in a shared resource model, which reduces the demand for new machinery production. This not only helps minimise your carbon footprint but also allows you to use equipment that meets the latest environmental standards. We ensure our fleet is regularly updated and maintained for maximum efficiency and reduced emissions, so you can complete your projects while contributing to a more sustainable future.

Make The Right Choice For Your Business

In construction, the flexibility, cost savings, and convenience of renting far outweigh the financial and operational burden of buying equipment. By renting from us, you get the latest machinery, quick delivery, flexible terms and reliable customer support without the long-term commitment or high costs of ownership. For businesses looking to stay agile and efficient, renting is the smarter choice. Start now

On the occasion of this important milestone, let’s look back at the highlights of our journey.

From Day 1 – Expanding Our Team 

Our growth has been reflected in the expansion of our team. Over the years, Resolve has welcomed new talents across all departments, significantly boosting our capacity and expertise. We are proud to now count over 20 employees in our ranks, with dynamic teams in sales, marketing, and finance. This expansion enables us to better serve our clients, foster innovation, and maintain our commitment to excellence.

2021 – Into Europe… and beyond

Our reach has progressively expanded, and we now have orders booked daily across Europe, including Italy, Spain, France and the Netherlands. This success is thanks to the incredible work of our account managers, who has helped us establish a strong presence in these markets. But we are hungry for more. With exciting plans for further expansion already in the works, we are eager to continue our growth and bring our innovative solutions to clients across the world

March 2022 – Making an Impact On The Community

In March 2022, we proudly became an official partner of Portsmouth Football Club. After a successful 2022/2023 season, we renewed our partnership for three more years. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to community involvement and youth development. Each year, Resolve hosts academy players, providing them with valuable work experience and opportunities beyond the football field.

August 2022 – Finding Our Home: The Move to Gunwharf Quays

One of the most exciting developments was our move to new premises at Gunwharf Quays in the summer of 2022. This prime location in Portsmouth is not just a beautiful and attractive place to work but also offers our team fantastic amenities. Being immersed in the Gunwharf shopping centre means we have an array of restaurants and bars at our disposal, along with exclusive discounts for all of them. This move has refreshed our work environment, contributing to the well-being and satisfaction of our employees.

March 2023 – Our Rebrand

In March 2023, we made the important decision to rebrand from First Choice Equipment to “Resolve.” This change was driven by our desire to better align with our evolving mission, values, and the innovative solutions we offer. “Resolve” captures our commitment to solving client challenges, our dedication to innovation, and our forward-thinking approach.

Rebranding was more than just a name change; it was a reinvention of our identity and values. We wanted a name that truly reflected our core principle: being the reliable solution providers for our clients, no matter how complex their projects. This rebrand marks a new chapter in our journey, one that strengthens our connection with our customers and community.

May 2023 – Buy1Give1

In May 2023, we partnered with B1G1, a global business dedicated to creating a world full of giving. Through this partnership, we donate to a different social project each month, supporting various communities and causes worldwide. These partnerships are a testament to our values and our dedication to making a positive impact both locally and globally.

April 2024 – Getting Involved

Our presence in both local and national events has been instrumental in raising our profile and connecting with industry leaders. Last April, we exhibited at the Solar and Storage Live in London, an incredible experience that significantly boosted our visibility. The event provided us with the opportunity to showcase our innovative equipment solutions and engage with a wide audience. We are excited to be participating at the SSL Birmingham show next September, and we look forward to building on the success of our previous exhibition. These events are vital for networking, learning and growing within our industry, and we are committed to being active participants.

The buzz at Solar and Storage Live was palpable this year as Resolve stepped onto the stage of the ExCel in London for the first time. Amongst the bustling crowds and vibrant energy of the event, our team found themselves at the heart of the solar industry’s most anticipated show in the UK, forging connections and making waves in the world of renewable energy.

Recognising Familiar Faces and Meeting New Ones

One of the most remarkable aspects of our experience was the overwhelming support and recognition from both existing customers and new connections. It was truly heartening to see familiar faces in the crowd, affirming the trust and confidence they place in our work. In addition, the opportunity to network with new potential customers was invaluable, allowing us to showcase our innovative offerings and establish meaningful connections within the solar community.

Paving the Way for Future Success

Our debut at Solar and Storage Live was nothing short of a fantastic experience, and it marks the beginning of an exciting journey for Resolve in the realm of national shows. The positive feedback and enthusiastic response we received reaffirm our belief in the importance of participating in such events, not only to showcase our capabilities but also to foster collaboration and drive innovation within the industry.

Exhibiting at Solar and Storage Live offered a myriad of benefits for Resolve, ranging from increased visibility and brand recognition to the opportunity to network with key stakeholders and industry leaders. The platform provided us with a unique opportunity to showcase our expertise and establish ourselves as a formidable player in the solar sector.

As we reflect on our experience at Solar and Storage Live, one thing is clear: the future is bright for Resolve. Our first exhibition show was just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey filled with innovation and growth.

Helping the Solar Industry

Our commitment to the solar industry goes beyond just providing equipment — it’s about building lasting partnerships with solar companies to ensure the success of their projects. Whether our clients are embarking on ambitious new installations, maintaining existing systems or undertaking critical repairs, Resolve is there every step of the way. We understand the pivotal role that reliable and high-quality equipment plays in the efficiency of solar energy setups. By partnering with Resolve, solar companies gain access to a full range of equipment tailored to their specific needs, backed by our commitment to excellence in customer service. Together, we’re not just supplying equipment; we’re empowering solar companies to drive forward the transition to clean, sustainable energy solutions.

Putting Customers First

At Resolve, customers are at the heart of everything we do. Prioritising their needs is what sets us apart from other equipment hire companies in the industry. From start to finish, we ensure that our customers receive the best possible service. Our dedicated account managers work closely with clients, providing personalised assistance and guidance to ensure a smooth and seamless experience.

Extensive Supplier Network

One of the key advantages of choosing Resolve for your equipment hire needs is our extensive network of small and large suppliers. With hundreds of suppliers at our disposal, we can deliver to all corners of the UK and beyond. This means that no matter where your project is located, we can get you the equipment you need, whenever you need it. Our strong relationships with nationwide suppliers allow us to offer the best value, products and services, all of which we transfer to our customers.

Tailored Solutions

Our diverse range of products includes powered access, plant equipment, safety and security equipment, site accommodation, fencing and hoarding, PPE and much more. We understand that every project is unique, which is why we offer tailored solutions to match the specific requirements and budgets of our customers.

Join Us At The Solar and Storage Live

We invite you to visit our booth (stand D10) at the ExCel London on April 29th and 30th to learn more about how Resolve can meet your equipment hire needs. Our team looks forward to connecting with you and discussing how we can support your projects with our top-quality equipment and exceptional service.

Don’t miss this opportunity to discover why Resolve is the preferred choice for customers in the solar industry. Book your free ticket.

Q: Can you share your journey of becoming a finance apprentice with us? What inspired you to choose this path?

My journey began during my college years while pursuing a Business B-TEC. I was drawn to finance because it fascinated me throughout my studies. More than anything, I wanted to gain real-world experience in the workplace, which I felt was more impactful than traditional classroom learning.

Q: Describe a typical day in your role as a finance apprentice. What are your main responsibilities and tasks?

My typical day revolves around processing supplier invoices and statements and addressing any discrepancies that arise. It’s a role that demands precision and attention to detail, keeping me engaged and continuously learning.

Q: What do you enjoy most about working in our company? Is there a particular aspect of your job that stands out as your favorite?

The supportive environment is what I value most about working here. It’s empowering to know I can freely ask questions and seek guidance, which significantly enhances my learning and development.

Q: In what ways has your apprenticeship experience contributed to your skills and knowledge in finance?

This apprenticeship has been invaluable in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Managing my workload while integrating classroom learning has deepened my understanding of finance, making the learning process comprehensive and dynamic.

Q: Collaboration and teamwork are often key to success. Can you share an experience where teamwork played a crucial role in achieving a goal or overcoming a challenge in your role?

Whenever I face challenges or uncertainties, I know I can rely on the finance team for support. Their willingness to help and explain things ensures that I not only overcome immediate hurdles but also build my capacity to handle future issues independently.

Q: What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship in finance, particularly with our company?

An apprenticeship is a fantastic way to learn, provided you’re ready to balance work and study. The hands-on experience you gain is incomparable and sets a solid foundation for your career.

Q: Reflecting on your time with us so far, what would you say is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned as a finance apprentice?

The most crucial lesson for me has been the importance of asking questions. When in doubt, seeking clarity not only helps resolve the immediate issue but also enriches your understanding, making you more proficient in your role.

A New Chapter Unfolds

As part of this innovative collaboration, talented young players from the Portsmouth FC Academy have stepped into the corporate world to gain hands-on experience in the realms of Sales, Finance, and Marketing. This initiative reflects our commitment to not only fostering talent on the field but also supporting the holistic development of these individuals.

Diversifying Skill Sets 

Over the next few weeks, these academy players will participate in the daily operations of Resolve. This unique work experience provides them with the opportunity to acquire practical skills, broaden their knowledge, and explore diverse career paths. We believe in the potential of these young minds and are dedicated to providing them with a platform to learn and grow.

A Refreshing Perspective 

Witnessing the transition of these athletes from the football pitch to corporate departments has been truly refreshing. It’s inspiring to see their eagerness to learn, adapt, and embrace new challenges. This initiative not only benefits the players but also enriches our work environment with a dynamic blend of skills and perspectives.

Investing in Tomorrow’s Leaders 

At Resolve, we understand the importance of investing in the next generation. By providing these academy players with real-world work experience, we aim to contribute to their personal and professional growth. We believe that this initiative will not only shape their individual careers but also create a positive impact on the community.

Pride in Partnership

This collaboration between Resolve and Portsmouth FC goes beyond a traditional partnership. It’s a commitment to nurturing talent, providing opportunities, and contributing to the community’s overall development. We take great pride in this initiative and look forward to being a part of the journey as these young individuals navigate new horizons off the football pitch.

As these academy players embark on their journey with Resolve, we are filled with anticipation and excitement. The fusion of sports and corporate experience exemplifies the endless possibilities that arise when organizations come together for a shared vision. We want to provide an enriching experience for these trainees, and we eagerly await the positive impact they will undoubtedly bring to both Resolve and the broader community. Stay tuned as we witness the evolution of these young talents into tomorrow’s leaders.

When hiring heavy machinery and plant like cherry pickers, forklifts, and telehandlers, you must ensure that the necessary precautions are in place to protect yourself against damages. Whether it’s broken parts, smashed windows, scratches, or even theft, you’ll be liable for cost of repair if at fault.

There are two main ways to cover yourself and your business when hiring plant and equipment – arranging yearly Hired in Plant insurance or purchasing damage waivers per hire.

There are benefits to both, however when working with hired plant regularly, the idea of purchasing damage waivers per hire is a costly one. But many businesses will ask themselves – is hired in plant insurance worth it?

Damage waivers are additional charges, usually around 10% of the hire cost, added by your supplier to cover for damage to the equipment. However, if you have a pre-existing insurance policy, there’s no need to purchase these.

We’ve compiled a list of benefits to ensuring that your business has a yearly cover in place when hiring plant. It may seem like a costly investment up front, but when you break it down, you’ll benefit from not only saving money, but being safe in the knowledge that you have an extensive cover for many areas, not just damage.

Cost savings:

Many hire companies add a charge of over 10% for a damage waiver. If you regularly hire plant and equipment, an annual policy can lead to significant cost savings. The policy cost

is determined by factors such as the equipment type, estimated annual hire fees, the maximum market value of a single item, and the maximum value of items insured at a single location.

Extensive Coverage:
This policy covers material loss or damage, including instances where the item is in use, and it also includes theft. This bridges the gap in hire agreements where damage waivers provide limited coverage, leaving renters exposed to uninsured losses.

Legal Expenses:
In case of a legal dispute between the rental company and the renter, legal costs can be covered up to a specified amount, often up to £50,000.

On-going hire charge:
Typically, in the event of loss or damage, renters are required to continue paying hire costs for a certain period or until the item is repaired and ready for hire again. This policy provides coverage for the costs you are held responsible for, following the loss or damage of a hire item, often up to £50,000, subject to a waiting period (commonly 7 to 14 days).

If you’re thinking to yourself, is hired in plant insurance worth it? – Consider all the factors involved before purchasing costly damage waivers from your plant supplier each time you hire equipment.
Want more information on how hired in plant insurance can save your business money? Get in touch with our team of expert account managers today.

In the first half of 2023, softwood imports reached 3,217,000 cubic meters, a figure reminiscent of pre-pandemic levels observed in 2019. This indicates a return to a more stable market environment.

Softwood imports in the first half of 2023 only dipped by 5% compared to the same period in 2022, a marked improvement from the 17% decline seen in the previous year. Notably, the first half of 2021 witnessed a remarkable surge of 49% in softwood imports.

Hardwood imports, which had reached a record high in 2022, have shown relatively little fluctuation in 2023, with monthly volumes consistently falling within the range of 37,000 to 45,000 cubic meters.

This stability extends to the panel sector as well, where monthly volumes of plywood, MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard), and OSB (Oriented Strand Board) have remained consistent.

While overall UK timber import volumes for the first half of 2023 were 7% lower than the same period in 2022, June imports bucked the trend by increasing 2% compared to the previous year.

TDUK’s head of technical and trade, Nick Boulton, commented, “The first half of 2023 closely mirrors the market patterns observed before 2020, indicating a return to stability. The confluence of Brexit, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict caused significant market upheavals in 2020, 2021, and 2022. Barring any major disruptions, it’s unlikely that we will witness such dramatic peaks and troughs in the near future.”

However, Boulton cautioned that the UK market still faces challenges, with high inflation and interest rates. He added, “The Construction Products Association has predicted a slowdown in the crucial private housing and RMI (Repair, Maintenance, and Improvement) sectors, which may impact timber imports in the third and fourth quarters. Additionally, the loss of Russian wood to the European market and the effects of climate change are expected to tighten wood supply in the coming years, making efficient and effective wood resource utilization a growing priority.”

As a managed service provider in the equipment and plant hire industry, one of our primary concerns is to navigate the evolving landscape of government policies and industry dynamics.

The recent announcement by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak regarding the UK’s net zero goals has left us with mixed feelings and raised several crucial questions about its impact on our industry.

The prime minister’s speech, initially scheduled for Friday, was hastily moved up to Wednesday evening due to advanced news leaks. The core message of the speech aligned with what had been reported in the press—a delay in various net zero deadlines and a shift in the approach to achieving carbon neutrality.

While some lobby groups and vested interests howled in protest, Sunak’s intention appears to be rooted in relieving substantial financial burdens that were about to burden the public. Notably, the expansion of London’s ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) wasn’t mentioned in the speech but provides important context.

Under the revised plans, the government aims to:

• Delay the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by five years, pushing it to 2035.
• Extend the deadline for installing oil and LPG boilers and new coal heating for off-gas-grid homes to 2035, instead of the previously planned phase-out from 2026.
• Abandon policies that mandated landlords to upgrade the energy efficiency of their properties.

The prime minister emphasized the need for a balanced approach that incentivises innovation in businesses while avoiding imposing excessive costs on families, especially during a time when alternative technologies can be expensive and impractical for all homes.

Now, let’s explore how these developments are perceived within our industry:

Industry Reaction:

Construction Plant-Hire Association (CPA) Perspective:
Chris Cassley, the policy manager of CPA, expressed concern about the prime minister’s announcement. He highlighted the ambiguity it introduces to the construction equipment sector’s efforts to transition away from diesel and toward alternative fuels. CPA members seek clarity and consistency in government policy to facilitate investment decisions and the development of diesel-free technologies in construction plant.

Construction Equipment Association (CEA) Perspective:
Suneeta Johal, Chief Executive of CEA, underlined the frustration within the construction equipment sector. Despite substantial investments and progress in embracing alternative fuels and electric machinery, shifting policy stances create uncertainty, hindering long-term planning and green innovation.

UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) Perspective:
Simon McWhirter, Deputy Chief Executive of UKGBC, expressed anger and frustration at the policy shift. He emphasized that delaying green policies only accelerates their future implementation, increasing costs for households and businesses. McWhirter called for a focus on insulating homes to bring down costs for households, highlighting the need for a national strategy to upgrade all homes and buildings.

Logistics UK Perspective:
David Wells, CEO of Logistics UK, stressed the importance of progress in investment and policies necessary for the logistics sector to achieve net zero. Delaying decarbonisation deadlines without providing necessary details creates uncertainty and discourages private investment, potentially affecting the UK’s supply chain and economy.

Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) Perspective:
Eddie Tuttle, Policy Director of CIOB, expressed disappointment at the scaling back of energy efficiency targets. He emphasised the importance of decarbonising homes and the built environment, suggesting that government support for retrofitting and energy efficiency should be a priority.

Wates Sustainability Director Perspective:
Bekir Andrews, Sustainability Director at Wates, argued that the government should concentrate on decarbonising the built environment. He highlighted the significant role of commercial and public-owned buildings in emissions and urged for policies that provide clarity and stability to drive investments in sustainable solutions.

Dissenting Opinion – Leaders Romans Group:
Michael Cook, Group Managing Director of Leaders Romans Group, welcomed the government’s decision to reverse certain policies, particularly those that could financially burden homeowners and landlords. He stressed that reducing capital outlay during challenging times benefits everyone.

In conclusion, the recent government announcement has left our industry in a state of uncertainty and raised concerns about the path to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. While some appreciate the effort to relieve financial pressures, others stress the importance of clear and consistent policies to drive innovation and sustainable practices within the construction equipment and plant hire sector. Balancing the transition to a greener future with economic realities remains a significant challenge that requires ongoing dialogue and collaboration between industry stakeholders and policymakers.

Resolve and Portsmouth Football Club have officially announced a three-year sponsorship deal, making Resolve the official Added Time and Replay sponsor for the next three seasons.

Resolve is delighted to formally announce the official sponsorship of Portsmouth FC on a three-year contract, extending to the 2025/26 season. The deal, which is Resolve’s largest sponsorship deal to date, will begin from the start of the 2023/24 season. Directors Matt and Nick, along with Marketing Executive Toby, headed to Fratton Park to mark the sponsorship with a photo alongside Pompey’s CCO Mark Judges, as well as Partnerships Manager Lawrence Bisgrove, pictured below.

The two Portsmouth-based organisations have been affiliated since the start of the 2022/23 season, with Resolve agreeing to a single-season sponsorship. Resolve’s first season sponsoring the League One side saw the brand’s logo displayed on the LED board at Fratton Park throughout home matches, as well as official branding across social media, newsletters, and printed materials.

The new three-year deal see’s Resolve’s involvement with the local club increase dramatically. Specially designed graphics will be displayed on Fratton Park’s LED board for both instant replays, as well as during the added time announcements at half and full time.

Also featured in the ground is a 16ft Resolve-branded advertisement board, located in the corner where the North Stand and Milton end meet. This board was notably visible during Portsmouth’s 1-0 win over League One rivals Exeter on Sky Sports Football in August.

Resolve’s initial season of sponsorship also saw Pompey Academy Graduates joining the team for valuable work experience. The four budding professional footballers spent four days with Resolve, learning the ins and outs of how a business works, what the day-to-day of office life is like as well as the various opportunities available should they wish to pursue a career away from football. Resolve is already planning this season’s iteration of the work experience offering for the Blue’s Academy players and hopes that it will be an even better experience than the initial program.

The Resolve team are looking forward to seeing the progression of the partnership with Portsmouth, with many of the team being avid Pompey fans and season-ticket holders. There is also a hope that this partnership grows the awareness of the Resolve brand in the city, providing a solid platform for the expansion of the business in the next 6-12 months.