Maxim Crane Works Acquires Sims Tower Crane Fleet to Expand US Tower Crane Presence
- Meagan Wood
- Apr 18, 2025
- 3 min read
30 Second Takeaway
US-based rental specialist Maxim Crane Works has completed the acquisition of the tower crane assets of Sims Crane & Equipment’s tower crane subsidiary. The transaction strengthens Maxim’s tower crane fleet, expands its product offering, and increases its market presence across Florida, where the majority of the acquired cranes are currently operating.
Tower crane fleet acquisition strengthens Maxim portfolio
Maxim Crane Works has acquired the tower crane fleet operated by Sims Crane & Equipment’s tower crane division, marking a strategic expansion of Maxim’s capabilities in the tower crane rental market.
The acquisition supports Maxim’s stated objectives to refresh its tower crane fleet, broaden available crane types, and enhance its position in key regional markets.
Potain tower cranes form core of acquired fleet
The acquired fleet consists primarily of Potain tower cranes, including a mix of flat-top and hammerhead models commonly used on commercial and high-rise construction projects.
Key models include:
Potain MDT 389 L16 flat-top cranes with 16-tonne capacity and jib lengths of up to 75 metres
Potain MD 559 hammerhead cranes with 20-tonne capacity and jib lengths of up to 80 metres
Potain MDT 489 flat-top cranes with 25-tonne capacity
Most of the cranes are currently deployed across major Florida construction markets, including Tampa, Miami, Jacksonville, Orlando, and Tallahassee.
Expanding tower crane market presence in Florida
The transaction significantly increases Maxim’s tower crane footprint in Florida, a region with sustained demand for tower crane rental driven by commercial, residential, and infrastructure development.
By integrating the Sims tower crane assets, Maxim gains immediate access to cranes already operating in active markets, supporting continuity for customers and projects.
Leadership comments on the transaction
Paul McDonnell, Chief Executive Officer of Maxim Crane Works, said the acquisition aligns with the company’s long-term strategy.
“This acquisition strengthens our commitment to delivering top-quality crane solutions and further expands our capabilities in the tower crane market,” McDonnell said. “We are thrilled to partner with Sims to complete this acquisition.”
Deborah Weber, Chief Executive Officer of Sims Crane & Equipment, said the sale allows Sims to sharpen its strategic focus.
“This strategic decision allows us to focus our operations on applications that align closely with our mission and objectives,” Weber said. “By streamlining our operations, we aim to enhance our service offerings and better meet the needs of our customers.”
About Maxim Crane Works
Maxim Crane Works is one of the largest providers of crane rental, lifting services, and heavy lift solutions in North America. The company operates a broad fleet of mobile cranes, crawler cranes, and tower cranes, supporting construction, infrastructure, energy, and industrial projects across the United States.
Website: https://www.maximcrane.com
About Sims Crane & Equipment
Sims Crane & Equipment is a Florida-based provider of crane rental and lifting services, supporting construction and industrial projects throughout the southeastern United States. The company operates a diversified fleet of lifting equipment and continues to focus on core crane rental applications following the tower crane fleet sale.
Website: https://www.simscrane.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What assets did Maxim acquire from Sims?
Maxim acquired the tower crane fleet operated by Sims Crane & Equipment’s tower crane subsidiary.
What types of tower cranes were included?
The fleet includes Potain flat-top and hammerhead tower cranes, with capacities ranging from 16 to 25 tonnes.
Where are the cranes primarily operating?
Most cranes are deployed in Florida, including Tampa, Miami, Jacksonville, Orlando, and Tallahassee.
Why did Sims sell its tower crane fleet?
Sims stated the sale allows the company to focus on operations that align more closely with its strategic objectives.
How does this affect Maxim’s tower crane business?
The acquisition expands Maxim’s tower crane capacity, product range, and market presence.
