JCB's new Eco backhoe loader is part of the fleet of GBP14 million worth of machines order by Hewden.

JCB has landed what it says is one of its biggest single deals when a leading UK plant hirer placed a GBP14 million (USD22.1 million) order this month.

Manchester-based Hewden has signed a contract for JCB products including Loadall telehandlers, mini-excavators, tracked and wheeled excavators and JCB's new 3CX Eco backhoe loaders.

Tim Burnhope, JCB group managing director for product development, says signing the deal with a company of Hewden's standing "is a fantastic way to start 2011" and speaks volumes for the strength of the JCB brand.

Hewden sales and marketing director Jeff Schofield says the investment is a major development of the company's fleet. "We have selected the best product in each category based on the clear preferences of our customers. JCB's products have an enviable reputation in the marketplace and we look forward to working with them."

The telehandlers and backhoe loaders will be made at JCB's world headquarters in Rocester, the mini-excavators at JCB Compact Products in Cheadle and the tracked and wheeled excavators at JCB Heavy Products in Uttoxeter. JCB dealer Gunn JCB is supplying the machines.

Like other UK businesses, JCB has been affected by the global economic downturn. According to Birmingham Post, JCB's 2009 profits jumped by a million pounds (USD1,579,945) to GBP29 million (USD45.8 million) but it still fell short of the GBP187 million (USD295.5 million) the company made in 2007. In 2009, the world's third-largest construction equipment brand had a 12.2% marketshare but predicts it will take five years to recover its 2007 position.

Hewden provides equipment rental and contract management services to businesses in a variety of British industrial sectors. It employs nearly 1,400 people at a network of 47 UK depots.