CEA and HAE associations extend cooperation

UK associations Hire Association Europe (HAE) and the CEA (Construction Equipment Association) have agreed a reciprocal membership arrangement, strengthening cooperation between the two.

Each organisation will become a member of the other, with the aim of sharing knowledge and working together on issues affecting members and the wider industry.

CEA represents around 150 OEMs, component and attachment manufacturers and distributors, while HAE members include 700 rental companies members as well as 100 OEMs and suppliers.

In a joint statement the two said the agreement reflected the close relationship between manufacturers and rental companies, with common interests include crime prevention, the development of CEA’s CESAR anti-theft registration scheme, and asset management.

‘Agreement is logical step’

Paul Gaze, CEO of HAE, said: “HAE already works closely with the CEA on a range of topics including theft, asset management and taxation, so reciprocal membership is a logical next step.

“We have many OEM and supplier members, so this relationship underlines our commitment to supporting the hire supply chain. Trade bodies working together can achieve so much more.”

Speaking for CEA, CEO Viki Bell said there was a “natural fit” between the organisations; “This agreement gives us a stronger basis for sharing knowledge and working together on the issues that matter to our members.

“Closer cooperation between our associations will help ensure that manufacturers, suppliers and hire companies have a more joined-up voice as the industry responds to the challenges and opportunities ahead.”