Kavanagh Crane Hire Acquires William O’Brien Crane Hire to Strengthen Presence in Southwest Ireland
Updated: Jan 14
30 Second Takeaway
Irish lifting specialist Kavanagh Crane Hire Ltd has completed the acquisition of William O’Brien Crane Hire, a long-established Cork-based crane hire company serving Munster, Ireland, and international projects. The transaction expands Kavanagh’s operational footprint in the southwest of Ireland, with the Cork depot and workforce integrated into Kavanagh’s national crane hire network.
Kavanagh Crane Hire takeover expands Cork operations
Kavanagh Crane Hire Ltd, Ireland’s largest provider of crane hire and lifting solutions, has acquired William O’Brien Crane Hire, one of the country’s longest-serving crane rental businesses.
Founded in Cork, William O’Brien Crane Hire has built a strong reputation across Munster and beyond, supporting major lifting projects throughout Ireland and, in recent years, on international assignments.
The acquisition adds a strategically located Cork depot and office base, strengthening Kavanagh’s ability to service customers across the southwestern region.
William O’Brien Crane Hire legacy continues within Kavanagh
Synonymous with the Irish crane industry, William O’Brien Crane Hire has operated for decades as a leading regional provider of mobile crane services. Under the new ownership structure, operations and expertise from the Cork-based business will be integrated into Kavanagh Crane Hire’s national operation.
Kavanagh confirmed that the acquisition secures the continued employment of William O’Brien Crane Hire’s experienced workforce, with all personnel welcomed into the wider Kavanagh team.
Workforce continuity and regional growth
Kavanagh highlighted the importance of retaining skilled personnel as part of the takeover.
The company said it was “most rewarding” to secure the employment of highly skilled and knowledgeable crane professionals, ensuring continuity for customers and supporting future growth in the region.
The expanded Cork base will support an ever-growing fleet and provide additional capacity to meet customer demand across Munster and southwest Ireland.
Supporting long-term growth strategy
The acquisition comes as Kavanagh Crane Hire approaches its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of crane hire and lifting operations in Ireland.
Kavanagh said the takeover aligns with its long-term growth strategy, enabling continued investment in:
Top-class personnel
Modern crane technology
Nationwide service capability
The company stated that it remains focused on strengthening its position as Ireland’s leading crane hire provider.
About Kavanagh Crane Hire Ltd
Kavanagh Crane Hire Ltd is Ireland’s largest provider of crane hire and lifting solutions, operating a nationwide network of depots and a modern fleet of mobile cranes. Approaching 50 years in business, the company supports construction, infrastructure, industrial, and specialist lifting projects across Ireland.
Website: https://www.kavanaghcranehire.com
About William O’Brien Crane Hire
William O’Brien Crane Hire is a Cork-based crane hire company with a long history of supporting lifting projects across Munster and Ireland, as well as selected international projects. The company has been recognised as one of Ireland’s longest-serving crane hire businesses and now operates as part of Kavanagh Crane Hire Ltd.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who acquired William O’Brien Crane Hire?
Kavanagh Crane Hire Ltd has acquired William O’Brien Crane Hire.
Where is William O’Brien Crane Hire based?
The company is based in Cork, serving Munster and southwest Ireland.
Will employees remain following the acquisition?
Yes. All former employees have been retained and welcomed into Kavanagh Crane Hire.
What does the acquisition add to Kavanagh’s operations?
The deal adds a Cork depot, experienced personnel, and strengthens regional coverage in southwest Ireland.
How long has Kavanagh Crane Hire been operating?
Kavanagh Crane Hire is approaching 50 years in business.
