Premier Plant & Tool Hire
Intent into action
Premier Tool & Plant Hire backs up its carbon neutral ambitions with a bold investment in JCB’s electric range.
There’s a difference between talking about sustainability and doing something meaningful about it. In construction, where hard work and powerful kit go hand in hand, making smarter environmental choices can be a challenge - but some firms are turning intent into action.
For Premier Tool & Plant Hire, that means moving towards electric. The family-run business has just invested in a fleet of JCB’s zero-emissions electric machines: the 19C-1E electric mini excavator, 8008E CTS electric micro excavator and HTD5E electric Dumpster. Each one delivers the same performance as its diesel equivalent, with none of the tailpipe emissions.
This latest move marks another step forward in Premier’s push towards carbon neutrality, while continuing to meet the needs of customers across Leicestershire and beyond.
Smarter, cleaner kit
Already running a fleet of more than 100 JCB machines - comprising excavators, Loadall telescopic handlers, site dumpers and compaction equipment – Premier Tool & Plant Hire was responding to clear customer demand for sustainable options. JCB’s electric range offers the right solution.
Rob Hughes, Managing Director at Premier Plant and Tool Hire, said: “We’ve always chosen JCB because it’s a trusted brand with a broad range that works for our customers. The move into electric was driven by demand, but it also fits with where we want to go as a business. Reducing our carbon footprint is something we’ll continue to invest in, now and in the future.
“We’re also planning to open a second depot in 2026 so being able to offer modern, lower‑emission equipment is increasingly important. These electric machines are a key part of that.”
Zero compromise
The JCB E-TECH range has been designed to deliver on-site productivity with no compromise on performance. Powered by proven lithium-ion battery technology, the machines are ideal for indoor, emissions-sensitive or low-noise sites and offer a whole host of user and environmental benefits.
As Rob continues: “The machines are powerful, reliable and easy to work with, which is exactly what contractors want. Downtime is low and operators really like the controls and cab layout, especially on the excavators.
“From our point of view, the electric machines help us meet emissions requirements while keeping running costs down and protecting residual values. That makes the JCB E‑TECH range a sensible long‑term investment.”
Lower noise levels, reduced running costs and minimal servicing requirements also make these machines an attractive option for both contractors and hirers.
A strong investment
Premier Tool & Plant Hire’s decision to invest in JCB’s electric range wasn’t just about meeting regulations — it was about making a sound business choice.
Rob concludes: “These machines tick all the boxes. They’re good for the environment, but they also make commercial sense. They help us meet emissions targets, reduce fuel use and keep operating costs under control. They also hold their value well, so we’re confident we’ve made a smart long-term investment.”
In this case, going electric is less about reinventing the wheel and more about choosing a cleaner way to keep it turning.
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