Ireland’s first dedicated plant, tool and access hire exhibition is an event, on one day, under one roof…That will drive innovation, strengthen partnerships and give the industry a platform we can finally call our own.
For years, Ireland’s plant and tool hire sector has been a driving force behind the country’s construction, utilities and infrastructure development. From compact tool depots to national rental fleets servicing major contracts, housing schemes and urban renewal, hire companies have played a pivotal role in enabling the countries infrastructure.
Yet despite the size and maturity of the sector, there has never been a national exhibition dedicated solely to its needs.
That changes on 26 March 2026, when HIREland opens its doors at the National Show Centre in Dublin.
Backed by Machinery Movers Magazine in association with MCS Rental Software and Husqvarna, HIREland has been conceived as Ireland’s first trade-only exhibition focused exclusively on plant hire, tool hire and powered access.
A Platform Built for Hire
Unlike broader construction expos, HIREland is unapologetically focused. With every exhibitor, every visitor and every conversation centred around rental.
According to Show Director Brian Coogan, the idea grew from a clear gap in the market.
“Ireland’s hire sector has matured rapidly over the past decade. It deserved its own professional platform — somewhere hirers could meet suppliers, see innovation first-hand and make real business decisions.”
— Brian Coogan, Show Director
Ireland’s hire landscape has evolved dramatically in recent years. Investment in modern fleet, machine control technology, telematics and digital rental management systems has reshaped how depots operate. Sustainability targets and low-emission requirements are influencing buying decisions. Labour shortages have increased reliance on smarter, more efficient equipment.
HIREland aims to bring all of those themes together in one concentrated, business-focused environment.
The exhibition will feature suppliers across:
- Plant machinery and compact equipment
- Tool hire solutions
- Powered access platforms
- Rental software and telematics
- Fleet management and tracking systems
- Finance, insurance and compliance services
- Parts, servicing and aftermarket support
The result is a high-impact one-day event designed to deliver meaningful engagement rather than casual browsing.
Strategic Timing for Decision-Makers
The March 2026 date has been carefully chosen.
Coming at the end of the first quarter, it allows hire companies to review early-year performance, assess new product releases and align purchasing strategies for the months ahead.
Co-Director Jeff Schofield believes the timing strengthens the event’s commercial value.
“Late March gives hirers the opportunity to assess what’s new, evaluate asset requirements and make informed purchasing decisions about the year ahead.”
— Jeff Schofield, Co-Director
With housing delivery targets increasing, utilities investment ongoing and data centre development expanding, the demand for modern rental equipment remains strong. The ability to meet suppliers face-to-face in a focused setting could streamline procurement processes and accelerate decision-making.
Importantly, HIREland is strictly trade-only and free to attend, ensuring that the audience consists of industry professionals — owners, fleet managers, operations directors, buyers and engineers — rather than general visitors.
The Venue: Room to Grow
The move to the National Show Centre reflects the ambition behind HIREland.
Located just minutes from Dublin Airport and easily accessible via the M50 motorway, the venue provides over 3,000 square metres of exhibition space, ample parking and excellent transport links for visitors travelling from across the island of Ireland.
Brian Coogan explains the rationale:
“We wanted a venue that could grow with the show. The response from exhibitors has been extremely strong, and the National Show Centre gives us the flexibility to expand as demand increases.”
The accessibility of the venue makes it feasible for contractors and rental operators from Cork, Galway, Limerick, Belfast and beyond to attend without logistical difficulty — a critical factor for a one-day event.
Innovation at the Core
HIREland is not simply about showcasing machinery; it is equally about highlighting innovation.
Across Ireland, rental companies are increasingly investing in:
- AI-enabled inspection systems
- Digital damage reporting platforms
- Battery-powered plant and tools
- Hybrid and low-emission generators
- Solar and energy storage solutions
- Advanced telematics and asset tracking
Technology is rapidly transforming rental operations, and HIREland aims to reflect that evolution.
Jeff Schofield emphasises the broader perspective:
“Technology is transforming how hire companies operate — from fleet tracking and asset management to alternative-powered machinery. HIREland will showcase the solutions shaping the future of rental in Ireland.”
With sustainability and digital efficiency now central to competitive advantage, the exhibition provides a forum for suppliers to demonstrate how their products align with these priorities.
Building Relationships, Not Just Stands
While machinery and technology will draw attention, HIREland’s long-term value lies in connection. Ireland’s hire sector is close-knit yet geographically dispersed. Bringing suppliers and hirers together under one roof strengthens industry ties and fosters collaboration.
Brian Coogan highlights this community aspect:
“HIREland isn’t just about stands and machines — it’s about people. It’s about strengthening partnerships within the Irish hire sector and delivering a venue where each year, the industry can meet”.
Conversations at HIREland are expected to go beyond product specifications. Discussions around aftersales support, service reliability, finance options and long-term fleet strategies are likely to shape purchasing decisions throughout 2026 and beyond.
The backing of established industry names such as MCS Rental Software and Husqvarna reinforces confidence in the event’s credibility.
Industry Momentum and Growth
The early response from exhibitors suggests strong appetite for a dedicated Irish hire show. For suppliers, HIREland provides a concentrated opportunity to meet key decision-makers in a market that continues to expand.
For hirers, it offers clarity — the ability to compare brands, assess innovations and explore partnerships within a single day.
As Ireland continues to invest in housing, infrastructure, renewable energy and data centre projects, the hire sector will remain central to delivery.
HIREland 2026 therefore represents more than an exhibition — it represents recognition of the sector’s scale, professionalism and importance within Ireland’s construction ecosystem.
Looking Ahead
With momentum building, exhibitor interest strong and social media engagement increasing, HIREland is poised to become a fixture on the Irish industry calendar.
In Brian Coogan’s words:
“This is just the beginning. HIREland is about building something long-term for the Irish hire industry — a platform it can call its own.”
As March 2026 approaches, all eyes will be on Dublin. If the response so far is any indication, Ireland’s hire industry is ready — and HIREland may well become the annual meeting point it has long been waiting for.
