Laing O’Rouke reacquires plant and tools business as it exits WS Transport joint venture

Founded in 2015, Worksop-based Explore Transport, a joint venture between Laing O’Rourke’s Select Plant Hire and WS Transport, previously operated as a single entity with three divisions.

Supported by an eight-figure funding package from HSBC UK, £87.5 million turnover, Explore has divested its civil plant and tool hire division, with Select Plant Hire acquiring the business.

The deal, which enables Explore to focus on its core transport and rail plant divisions, is now fully owned by WS Transport, led by William Stobart and his son Edward, whose family is renowned for founding the iconic Eddie Stobart haulage and logistics brand.

Explore will maintain its exclusive haulage partnership with Laing O’Rourke.

Select Plant Hire’s Mark Herlihy said: “Following the sale of the plant and tools business to ETL in 2017, the business has continued to prosper as part of Explore Transport Limited.

“Select Plant Hire is delighted to be bringing this business back, and further enhancing Select’s plant capability, whilst continuing to work in an exclusive logistics partnership with ETL.”

While Explore finance director, Bradley Cooper highlighted Explore’s growth ambitions.

“We have ambitious plans and with a streamlined ownership structure, we will continue to drive forward more exciting opportunities,” he said.

“We look forward to progressing our strategy of bringing innovation to the sectors we operate in.”

Global relationship director at HSBC UK, Jason Gledhill added: “It’s fantastic to support this next phase of growth for Explore.

“This move reflects the ongoing commitment of the business to UK transport and rail plant industries.”

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