Briggs Equipment, a leading equipment hire specialist, has launched a new, state-of-the-art training and storage facility at its Altona base in Lisburn, Northern Ireland.
The facility, which became fully operational in mid-April, represents a significant £3.5 million investment and is one of Ireland’s premier centers for operator and technical training.
It was officially opened by Peter Jones (Group Managing Director, Briggs Equipment UK) alongside Colin McNeely (Divisional Director, Briggs Equipment Ireland), who stressed the new venture was the result of a fantastic and dedicated team, and could not have been possible without the cooperation of all involved.
- The new facility features three indoor and two outdoor areas dedicated to practical training, along with four modern classrooms for theoretical instruction. These spacious classrooms have been named as follows:
- **Sammons** – after Briggs’ parent company, Sammons Enterprises
- **Pantridge** – in honor of local cardiac consultant Frank Pantridge, the inventor of the portable defibrillator
- **Musgrave** – in tribute to Lisburn-born businessman and philanthropist Henry Musgrave
- **Dunlop** – recognizing Hans Dunlop, a key figure in Briggs Equipment’s success in Ireland
In addition to the classrooms, the facility includes a kitchen, reception area, and three large offices, which will be used by the Training Academy and Facilities Management teams.
Spanning 23,000 square feet, the facility provides ample storage for electric and ‘silver standard’ refurbished equipment, as well as new machinery available for sale or rental. Some equipment for short-term hire will also be stored here.
Notably, this is the first building in Briggs’ portfolio to be equipped with solar panels, which should supply a minimum of two-thirds of the facility’s energy needs. Additional sustainable features include a thermostatically controlled heat recovery and air conditioning system, energy-efficient LED lighting, and Passive Infrared (PIR) sensors for automated indoor lighting. Outdoor lights are also automated to activate at dusk.
The exterior of the site has been significantly upgraded as well, with a new road layout to ensure safe vehicle navigation between the upper and lower yards, which is crucial as traffic increases with more deliveries and visitors for training.
New drainage systems and a fully resurfaced concrete yard further enhance the site.
The construction and fit-out of the facility were managed by MCS Building and Joinery Limited, a long-term partner of Briggs Equipment in Ireland. MCS also refitted the first unit at Altona when Briggs Equipment moved its operations from Mallusk in 2019.
Briggs Equipment Northern Ireland is a leading provider of materials handling and powered access solutions, specialising in the hire, sale, and maintenance of industrial equipment. With a strong reputation for delivering exceptional service and innovative solutions, Briggs Equipment is a trusted partner to a diverse range of industries across Northern Ireland.
2024 also saw Briggs Equipment assume title sponsorship of Ireland’s largest sporting event by attendance, the North West 200. The spectacular and world-famous road race around a nine-mile course on the north coast has long been a pilgrimage for motorbike fans around the globe. Briggs Equipment’s multi-year agreement to sponsor the event demonstrates their commitment to long-term partnerships and supporting the local economy.
Headquartered in Lisburn, the company has established itself as a key player in the region’s industrial sector. Its state-of-the-art Altona base is a testament to Briggs Equipment’s commitment to excellence and innovation.
Briggs Equipment Northern Ireland is part of the larger Briggs Equipment UK Ltd, which is itself a subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, a diversified holding corporation based in the United States. This connection provides Briggs Equipment Northern Ireland with the resources and expertise of a global organization while maintaining a strong focus on local needs and challenges.
The company’s product range includes a comprehensive selection of forklifts, warehouse equipment, larger materials handling machinery, powered access equipment of all sizes, and industrial cleaners – available for sale, long-term rental or short-term hire. Briggs Equipment also offers a full suite of services, including machinery maintenance, fleet management, and IPAF and AITT accredited training courses designed to enhance workplace safety and operator skills.
With a customer-centric approach, a commitment to innovation, and a focus on sustainability, Briggs Equipment Northern Ireland continues to set the standard for materials handling and powered access solutions in the region.
Whether supporting large-scale industrial operations or small businesses, Briggs Equipment is dedicated to helping its customers achieve their goals efficiently and safely.
