Blackwood Plant Hire Strengthens Fleet with 51 New JCB Machines

Blackwood Plant Hire has made a significant investment in 2025, adding an impressive 51 JCB machines to their fleet – a move that highlights the company’s continued growth and its long-standing relationship with Scot JCB.

The new JCB additions include:

·         17 Mini and Midi Excavators

·         14 Tracked Excavators, including two of the latest 370X model

·         4 Wheeled Excavators

·         5 Site Dumpers

·         4 Tandem Rollers

·         3 Telehandlers

·         1 Backhoe Loader

Managing Director Paul McCormack explained the decision to invest so heavily in JCB:

“It comes down to reliability, ease of getting parts, operator comfort, and support. The machines are simple to operate, comfortable, and our drivers love the X Series cab design.”

Blackwood’s fleet is now spread across the country, with a major expansion in the North of Scotland. Paul estimates that around 75% of the new machines have gone straight into operation in the north, supporting the company's continued growth in new areas.

Over Two Decades of Partnership

Blackwood Plant Hire’s relationship with Scot JCB spans over 20 years. Since their management buyout in 2017, Paul and his team have continued to rely on Scot JCB for machinery, service, and support.

“The service is incredible,” Paul explains. “If we order a machine on a Friday, there’s a good chance it’ll be delivered by Monday. That’s the kind of turnaround you just don’t get elsewhere.”

Sales Engineer George McKnight has worked closely with Blackwood Plant Hire for over 15 years and is regarded as a key part of the relationship.

“George is brilliant. He treats every machine sale with the same care and attention, whether it’s one digger or 20. He always makes sure we’re looked after.”

Service That Goes the Extra Mile

Paul is clear that the after-sales service from Scot JCB is a major reason they continue to choose JCB.

“JCB’s machines are great, but without Scot JCB’s service and parts support, we wouldn’t buy them. Compared to other manufacturers, the backup is on a different level.”

The availability of parts and first-time fix rate are standout points for Paul, who noted that with other brands, machines can be off hire waiting on parts or follow-up visits.

“With Scot JCB, the engineer usually arrives with the part. It’s sorted first time. That kind of support keeps our business moving.”

Flexible Finance That Supports Growth

Blackwood Plant Hire finances most of its JCB machinery through JCB Finance, working closely with David Dodds to structure deals that suit the business’s needs.

“David always gives us the best options. He understands our business, and we’ve explored different financing models together to make sure we’re getting the best value.”

Built on Trust

With nearly 400 JCB machines purchased over the years, Blackwood Plant Hire’s loyalty is driven by a combination of great products, strong service, and trusted relationships.

“We’re old-school. If someone asked me about buying from Scot JCB, I’d tell them one thing: phone George!”