Dutch international rental company Riwal (one of the world’s largest aerial work platform and telehandler rental specialists) has acquired German aerial work platform and telehandler rental company AFI GmbH from owner Günther Aust.

AFI GmbH was established by Aust in Hamburg in October 2003 with the support of AFI in the UK, following Aust’s departure from Lavendon’s then German subsidiary Zooom. The connections between the two AFI companies ended not long after the German business ‘found its feet’. It grew setadily and at one point opened a branch in Romania, but then as the financial crisis began to bite it ran into difficulties and in 2011 appointed an administrator. But both Aust and the business bounced back and AFI now runs a fleet of 1,300 machines from nine depots across Germany with 110 employees.

Aust will continue to lead the company during the next three months and will continue as an advisor for at least nine more months. Søren Rosenkrands, Riwal chief operating officer, will be in charge of the integration of the two companies. The existing business of Riwal Germany will continue to be managed by Riwal’s Nick Field.

     “Riwal and AFI GmbH are a strong fit as both companies are specialists in powered access and have a strong customer focus,” said Riwal CEO Norty Turner. “In line with its growth strategy, the acquisition of AFI GmbH allows Riwal to strengthen its position in Germany, one of the largest access equipment rental markets in Europe. It will provide our German customers as well as our international key accounts with national coverage in Germany, helping us to provide the best customer experience.”

“I am proud that the company we have developed since 2003 is now joining forces with one of the global leaders in powered access rental,” added Aust. “It will allow for further growth in the German market and will provide development opportunities for the employees. In the period ahead, I will closely work for Riwal to ensure a successful integration between the two companies.”

     Riwal, based in Dordrecht, The Netherlands, has 67 branches in 16 countries, with 14,000 machines, and conducts business in 60 countries.