The Global Rental Alliance (international body for the promotion of hire and rental internationally, in partnership with the American Rental Association (ARA) Foundation, created the international rental exchange program last year to advance the awareness of the rental industry worldwide and to foster leadership development on a global level. 

Australian company Kennards Hire hosted the first exchange participant, Peter Maginnis, branch manager for American Rentals in South Gate, California for three months from November 2008. 

Calling it “a chance of lifetime,” Peter was pleased with the experience both professionally and personally.

“I was able to bring back ideas I learned at Kennards Hire to better our company in the US. I also was able to learn about and look at the industry on a global level. The cultural experience was a big benefit, and I met lifelong friends.”

Additional exchanges are planned for later in 2009.