Acquisition(s)

Ashtead Group PLC                               

            Acquisition of Topp Construction Services Inc ("Topp")             

Ashtead Group PLC ("Ashtead") announces that its US subsidiary, Sunbelt Rentals
Inc, has acquired Topp Construction Services, Inc and its related company,
Precision Steel Works, LLC ("Precision") for a consideration¹ of US$33.5m which
was paid in cash at closing².

Topp, based in Philadelphia with 15 other branches located in or near key
population centres across the US, is a specialist rental provider of portable
air conditioning, heating and dehumidification equipment. Precision runs a
small assembly and manufacturing facility in support of Topp's business. In the
year to 31 December 2011, on a combined basis, Topp & Precision reported
pre-tax profits of $4.5m and combined gross assets of $10.5m.

Geoff Drabble, chief executive commented:

"We are delighted to conclude this acquisition in line with our long term
strategy of developing high value added speciality businesses which broaden our
product offering and the markets we serve"

Contacts:

Geoff Drabble       Chief executive      )   020 7726 9700                   
                                                                             
Ian Robson          Finance director     )                                   
                                                                             
Brian Hudspith      Maitland                 020 7379 5151   
                

¹  Including the amount paid to settle Topp's net debt at closing. The       
   consideration may be increased by an amount currently estimated at $2m by 
   way of tax equalisation.                                                  
                                                                             
²  Topp and Precision were acquired from their owner, Daniel Topp, who has   
   agreed a consultancy agreement with Sunbelt to assist in the post         
   acquisition transition.