By Danny Hung, Principal Recruitment Consultant

According to the latest IPAF market data, the UK MEWP rental sector contracted by around 2% last year, with fleet sizes also reducing by roughly the same amount.

On paper, that looks like a slowing market — but the reality tells a very different story.

While overall fleet sizes are shrinking, many of the UK’s leading powered access companies are still reporting average growth of 6% or more. Demand for quality machines and skilled operators continues to rise… even as supply tightens.

For anyone working in construction, facilities management or specialist access environments, here’s what that shift really means on site:

👷🏻‍♀️ Skilled Operators Are Becoming Harder to Find

With fleets contracting and pressure on equipment availability, clients are relying more than ever on dependable, experienced operators who can slot seamlessly into live, high-pressure environments.
The result? Demand is outstripping supply, and those with the right skill set are in high demand.

🔀 Versatility Is Now Essential

Today, powered access teams need to be ready for anything:

  • Reactive maintenance today
  • A retail re-fit tomorrow
  • A complex refurb a week later

Switching confidently between booms, scissors and a variety of site conditions isn’t a bonus anymore, it’s the baseline.

✅ Reliability Is the Real Market Differentiator

With utilisation across Europe sitting at around 64%, reliability has become one of the biggest value drivers in the sector.

Clients want operators who turn up, understand the job, and get it right the first time. A dependable operator saves time, money and site disruption, making them indispensable.

🚧 Safety Expectations Keep Rising

As margins tighten and more projects take place in live environments, “good enough” simply isn’t acceptable anymore.

Consistency, communication and competency have become non-negotiable. The operators who prioritise safety, and have the track record to prove it, will continue to stand out.

The powered access sector is evolving quickly. Even with a slight dip in fleet volume, operator demand is only going in one direction.

For clients, that means securing reliable, versatile, safety-focused operators is now more critical than ever.
For operators, it’s an opportunity to stand out, upskill and make themselves indispensable.

If you’re looking for experienced, qualified powered access professionals, or you’re an operator ready for your next opportunity,  I’m always here to help.

 

– Danny Hung
Principal Recruitment Consultant
Powered Access Specialist, Vision Personnel