Wolseley UK has announced plans for its new tool hire operation

Hire Center will be merged with recently acquired Brandon Hire, the new operation trading under the Brandon Hire name. The new business will be led by Brandon Hire chief executive Charles Skinner, and based in Bristol.

There will be a phased programme, starting in the South West, to convert existing Hire Center branches to the new Brandon format.

Brandon Hire will continue to trade from branches of other Wolseley brands, such as Build Center and Plumb Center, continuing the concept pioneered successfully by Hire Center.

Wolseley UK managing director Adrian Barden said:

"Providing tool hire to professional customers is a fundamental part of Wolseley’s business. The new tool hire business will build on Brandon Hire’s excellent reputation with customers, and combine the strengths of both businesses.

"The plans we have announced today will provide a platform for significant future growth and investment in the business. We plan further expansion for Brandon to become a market leader in the tool hire business