Ritchie Bros. Wraps Up a Record-Breaking 2024
As the curtains close on 2024, Ritchie Bros., Europe’s largest auctioneer of heavy equipment and industrial assets, has not only lived up to its reputation but set a new benchmark with its “Finish Strong, Start Stronger” campaign.
With more than 19,000 lots sold across 11 unreserved auctions worldwide, the year-end initiative underscored the company’s unmatched expertise and international appeal.
Designed to empower equipment owners with tailored strategies to maximise asset value, the campaign also offered buyers unparalleled access to premium equipment. The results? Record-breaking sales figures, robust global participation, and a showcase of Ritchie Bros.’ world-class solutions.
A Global Campaign with Stunning Results
The “Finish Strong, Start Stronger” campaign was an unmitigated success, delivering results that highlight Ritchie Bros.’ leadership in the equipment auction industry.
Metrics at a Glance:
- Lots Sold: Over 19,000 equipment items spanning construction, agriculture, transportation, and mining industries—a 25% year-on-year growth.
- Global Participation: More than 22,700 registrants from Europe, the UAE, and the Asia-Pacific region.
- Top Buyer Locations: Australia, Spain, Italy, France, and Germany, showcasing Ritchie Bros.’ extensive reach.
- Leading Equipment Categories:
- Mini Hydraulic Excavators – Over 1,000 sold
- Crawler Hydraulic Excavators – 500+
- Agricultural Tractors – 480+
- Boom Lifts – 680+
- Wheel Loaders – 370+
Duncan Ainscough, Head of International Sales at Ritchie Bros., shared his insights: “Ritchie Bros. stands out as Europe’s leading company for equipment transactions and heavy equipment services, driving record-breaking participation at our end-of-year sales events. Our unmatched global reach, world-class service, and diverse sales solutions set us apart, ensuring we deliver exceptional results for our customers.”
The campaign wasn’t just about big numbers—it was about redefining standards in how heavy equipment is bought and sold.
A Spotlight on the United Kingdom
The UK played a pivotal role in the campaign’s success, with Ritchie Bros. hosting three major auctions at its Maltby yard in Rotherham during the final quarter of 2024.
These events collectively sold over 2,290 lots and attracted more than 2,800 bidders. Buyers from over 100 countries participated, reinforcing the company’s global footprint.
Plantforce Fleet Renewal Auction
Among the standout events was the Plantforce Fleet Renewal Auction on 20th November. Collaborating with UK-based plant hire company Plantforce, Ritchie Bros. facilitated the sale of 160 premium fleet items, including excavators, wheel loaders, dumpers, and telehandlers.
With sustainability a strategic priority, Plantforce aimed to ensure its equipment found a “second life” through Ritchie Bros.’ platform. Sam Mercer, CEO of Plantforce, praised the partnership: “With sustainability being such a strategic focus for us, it is very important we make the right choice when it comes to selling items from our fleet that are due for renewal… Ritchie Bros. was a fantastic service provider. Their reputation and profile in the pre-owned machinery market mean they can move on quickly and efficiently, allowing us to progress our fleet renewal strategy.”
Interestingly, 57% of bidders at this event hailed from outside the UK, a testament to the auctioneer’s broad appeal. Buyers from 14 countries walked away with quality equipment, showcasing the global demand for Ritchie Bros.’ offerings.
Expanding Digital Opportunities
While the auctions made headlines, Ritchie Bros. also capitalised on its digital platforms to extend opportunities for buyers and sellers. The Marketplace-E platform, known for its flexible pricing and timing options, remained a reliable channel for ongoing sales.
Beyond auctions, Ritchie Bros. offers a diverse suite of solutions:
- IronPlanet: Weekly online auctions with the trusted IronClad Assurance® certification.
- Ritchie List: A self-serve listing platform tailored to North American markets.
- Mascus: A leading European online listing service.
- GovPlanet and TruckPlanet: Sector-specific solutions for government and transportation sectors.
These platforms ensure year-round activity, offering customers seamless options to transact on their terms.
What’s Next for 2025?
The momentum from 2024 shows no signs of slowing down. Ritchie Bros. UK is gearing up for its next major auction in Maltby, scheduled for 12-13 February 2025. This event is expected to attract widespread attention, continuing the trend of connecting buyers and sellers globally.
For those seeking flexibility outside the auction calendar, Ritchie Bros.’ digital channels will remain active, ensuring there’s always an opportunity to buy or sell equipment.
With sustainability, efficiency, and innovation at its core, the company is poised to lead the equipment auction industry into a new era. As Ritchie Bros. continues to refine its services, 2025 promises to be another banner year for this industry giant.
Why Ritchie Bros. Stands Out
Ritchie Bros. doesn’t just manage auctions; it redefines them. From its robust global network to its diverse sales solutions, the company has positioned itself as the go-to partner for equipment transactions. By blending traditional auction expertise with cutting-edge digital tools, Ritchie Bros. offers unmatched value to its customers.
With their proven ability to “finish strong” in 2024, the company is ready to help the industry “start stronger” in 2025.
