Cooper adds three companies to expand national reach

Key Takeaways:

• Cooper Equipment Rentals strengthens its presence in both Eastern and Western Canada with the acquisitions of Rent All Centre, Skyhigh Platforms, and Big Stick Rentals, enhancing its service network and coverage.
• The acquisitions will improve equipment availability, efficiency, and service flexibility, ensuring better access and faster response times for customers across Ontario and Alberta.
• Cooper remains dedicated to being Canada’s leading independent rental company, expanding with a focus on maintaining service quality, operational excellence, and strong company values.

The Whole Story:

Cooper Equipment Rentals Limited has announced the acquisitions of Rent All Centre and Skyhigh Platforms in Ontario, and Big Stick Rentals in Alberta. These strategic additions extend Cooper’s reach in both Eastern and Western Canada.

Rent All Center and Skyhigh Platforms

Founded in 1973, Rent All Centre (RAC) and Skyhigh Platforms have served contractors and businesses with general rental and aerial equipment. Their full-service rental locations across Cobourg, Port Hope, Peterborough (two branches), Belleville, and Trenton, along with Skyhigh’s aerial specialty location in Whitby, will now operate under the Cooper banner.

 “It is with great pride that we have now joined another Canadian owned company, to continue the path we’ve been walking. The Cooper family will continually improve on our already excellent service and reputation,” stated Brian Wheatley, President.

This acquisition enhances Cooper’s service footprint in Peterborough and the 401 corridor, complementing its existing network in Toronto, Oshawa, Kingston, and Ottawa. Cooper stated that the integration of RAC and Skyhigh will create seamless equipment sharing and expanded resources, increasing efficiency and availability for customers.

Big Stick

With a modern fleet and a prime location in Grande Prairie, Alberta, Big Stick Rentals has built a reputation for reliability and service excellence since its founding in 2013. Under the leadership of Kevin Bjornson, the company has become a key player in Northern Alberta’s rental market.

“I never expected to find a large partner who shared the same core values and culture as our little company. As I learned more about Cooper, it became evident that the small family who made large contributions to Big Stick Rentals’ success would be well taken care of in the Cooper family,” said Bjornson.

 Big Stick’s strategic location in Grande Prairie strengthens Cooper’s coverage in Western Canada, enabling broader geographic reach, equipment availability, and service flexibility across Alberta and beyond.

National vision

For Doug Dougherty, CEO of Cooper, these acquisitions represent more than geographic expansion – they reinforce Cooper’s commitment to being Canada’s only truly national, independent rental company.

 “At Cooper, we don’t just grow for the sake of growth – we expand with purpose,” said Dougherty. “Bringing these respected businesses into the Cooper family means we’re strengthening our service, growing our footprint, and staying true to what matters most: delivering the best rental experience in the industry.”

 Brian Spilak, COO of Cooper, highlighted the operational advantages of the expansion:

 “For our customers, these acquisitions mean more access to the equipment they need, where and when they need it. By expanding our network, we’re not just adding locations – we’re investing in better service, faster response times, and deeper local expertise. Whether it’s a small contractor or a major project, we’re ensuring they have the right equipment and support to keep their jobs moving forward.”