Wilkerson Crane Rental Acquires Ideal Crane to Expand Midwest Crane Rental Operations
- Meagan Wood
- Jan 27, 2025
- 3 min read
30 Second Takeaway
US-based Wilkerson Crane Rental has acquired the assets of Ideal Crane, a St. Joseph, Missouri–based crane rental company, expanding Wilkerson’s fleet and regional footprint in the Midwest. Following the transaction, Ideal Crane owners Chad and Kelly Duncan will remain with the business, supporting continuity for customers and ongoing operations.
Wilkerson Crane acquisition expands Midwest presence
Wilkerson Crane Rental, headquartered in Bonner Springs, Kansas, has completed the acquisition of the assets of Ideal Crane, strengthening its presence in Missouri and the wider Midwest crane rental market.
The acquisition adds an established regional operator with more than 40 years of operating history, allowing Wilkerson to expand its fleet, service capability, and geographic coverage.
Ideal Crane fleet and operations
Founded over four decades ago, Ideal Crane operates a mixed crane fleet supporting construction and industrial projects across the region. The fleet includes all-terrain cranes with lifting capacities up to 200 tonnes, including a five-axle Grove all-terrain crane.
Following the acquisition, Chad and Kelly Duncan will remain involved in the business, ensuring continuity of management, customer relationships, and local market knowledge.
Leadership comments on the transaction
Diana Holt, Owner and Chair of Wilkerson Crane Rental, said the acquisition aligns with the company’s growth strategy.
“We are thrilled to welcome Ideal Crane to the Wilkerson family. This partnership allows us to combine our expertise, resources, and commitment to safety to deliver expanded service to our customers,” Holt said. “The acquisition enables Wilkerson to expand its fleet and geographic footprint while benefiting from Ideal Crane’s longstanding relationships and industry knowledge.”
Cody Ward, recently appointed Chief Executive Officer of Wilkerson Crane Rental, said the deal fits well within the company’s portfolio.
“This acquisition fits very well within the Wilkerson portfolio. As we continue to pursue our growth goals, we look forward to working with Chad and Kelly to serve customers across the region,” Ward said.
Larry Smith, General Manager, highlighted the long-standing relationship between the companies.
“Chad and Kelly have been long-time clients of Wilkerson. We’re excited to welcome Ideal Crane into the Wilkerson family and are confident they will integrate well within our culture,” Smith said.
Wilkerson Crane Rental growth and background
The current Wilkerson Crane Rental business was established in 2013 and is based in Bonner Springs, Kansas, near Kansas City. The Wilkerson name traces back to a construction business founded in the early 1960s, which later created a crane rental division in 1969.
After several ownership changes, the original crane business closed in 2013. Diana Holt subsequently registered Wilkerson Crane Rental, preserving the brand and relaunching crane rental operations.
Today, Wilkerson Crane Rental provides:
Crane rental with or without operators
Heavy haulage services
Equipment servicing and storage
The company recently expanded its fleet with the addition of a Liebherr MK 140-5.1 self-erecting mobile tower crane.
Leadership transition supports continued expansion
Cody Ward joined Wilkerson Crane Rental earlier this month, taking over as Chief Executive Officer from Diana Holt. Ward brings experience in mergers and acquisitions, strategy, and growth, having previously worked with private equity firms, Kirby-Smith Machinery, and Greer, a specialist in crane overload systems.
His appointment supports Wilkerson’s continued focus on fleet expansion and regional growth.
About Wilkerson Crane Rental
Wilkerson Crane Rental is a US-based provider of crane rental, heavy lifting, and transport services serving construction, infrastructure, and industrial markets across the Midwest. The company operates a diverse fleet of cranes and supports projects with experienced operators and engineering support.
Website: https://www.wilkersoncrane.com
About Ideal Crane
Ideal Crane is a Missouri-based crane rental company established more than 40 years ago, supprting construction and industrial lifting projects across the region. The business operates a mixed fleet of mobile and all-terrain cranes and continues operations under Wilkerson ownership following the asset acquisition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who acquired Ideal Crane?
Wilkerson Crane Rental acquired the assets of Ideal Crane.
Will Ideal Crane’s owners remain with the business?
Yes. Chad and Kelly Duncan will remain involved following the acquisition.
What fleet capacity does Ideal Crane add?
The acquisition adds cranes up to 200 tonnes, including a five-axle Grove all-terrain crane.
Where is Wilkerson Crane Rental based?
Wilkerson is headquartered in Bonner Springs, Kansas.
Does Wilkerson offer services beyond crane rental?
Yes. Services include heavy haulage, equipment servicing, and storage.
