Wakefield stars at the Bahrain Grand Prix

Wakefield-based AFI said the new depot has got off to a flying start supplying two Snorkel TB126J, a JLG 860SJ, a Snorkel TB85J and a Skyjack SJ86T for use at the recent Bahrain Grand Prix.

AFI, which has depots across the UK, said it saw strong revenue growth in both the UK and the Middle East in the first quarter of 2017 as it expands its customer base and fleet to meet demand.

The group said it doesn't just hire out equipment, it also provides training and an experienced team to advise customers on the purchase of machinery and equipment.

David Shipman, chairman of AFI, saidd: “The Middle East is a significant market for our industry and we are delighted to have reached another landmark in our strategy. We launched new depots in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Qatar last year and the new Bahrain depot brings the total to six depots across four GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council)

countries.

“We are proud that our fleet was used for such a prestigious event as the recent Bahrain Grand Prix, which is testament to both the quality of our machinery and our outstanding level of customer service.”

AFI started its operation, Access Rental Gulf, in the Middle East in 2008 opening a depot in Dubai, and has since expanded with depots in Abu Dhabi, Dammam, Jeddah, Doha and now Bahrain.

The rental fleet across these GCC countries is over 850 machines and AFI employs over 70 people in the region. Following the opening of the new Bahrain depot, AFI will increase the fleet to almost 900 machines, representing total investment in the region of $6m this year so far.