CJ Awards 2009: Plant Hire Company

The judges were deeply impressed with HSS Hire's commitment to the one-call philosophy. They said: "A lot of investment and absolute commitment goes into real innovation in the hire sector; they are truly focused on meeting customer needs.

In 2008, HSS opened 10 supercentres, spent £23m on new equipment and invested more than 8,000 training days in rigorously raising staff skills.

The year saw HSS raise operational efficiency 10% and cut stock loss by 70%, which against the tough trading environment saw operational profits rise 30%.

The judges said HSS's education and health and safety programme for customers is second to none in the sector.

They were also deeply impressed by the sincere commitment shown by HSS to social responsibility.

The hirer runs several initiatives, offering career opportunities to disadvantaged youngsters and encouraging branch staff give up time to the local community.

A proportion of income goes to local charities. The overall message is convincing: HSS has a heart as well as giving customers' real commercial value.