"When we entered the HIEA this year we decided to really tell the Preston Hire story and focus on our internal development and progress. We have great faith in our people and our business and believe we stand apart from the crowd in the way we do business. This was where we focused our attention when pulling our submission information together," Mr Serg said.

"After reaching Finalist status in the HIEA Rental Company of The Year Award in 2015, many people might ask why we would want to nominate again. Entering the HIEA is a process and it really makes you take a long hard look at your business and ask the hard questions; what do we do really well and where can we improve? Just by entering we really feel we have already become winners because we have learnt a lot about our business in the process.

"Also since our last HIEA submission in 2015 we have hit many new milestones and are excited to share these. From expanding our branches domestically to developing internationally with a now established branch in New Zealand as well as a presence in Papua New Guinea, Preston Hire has also grown by exceeding sales and rental expectations in North America," Mr Serg said.

"Entering the HIEA again was also the perfect opportunity to showcase our new product categories and our increase in fleet as well as to highlight our involvement in our local communities and sponsorship programs for current and upcoming sport talent. To now be chosen as a Rental Company of the Year Finalist a second time around is a massive bonus. We are honoured."

In early April Preston Hire will get the chance to show its merit in the next stage of the HIEA process when the HRIA judges come to the service facility in Underwood, Queensland. During that visit the company will showcase its products and services and detail how the company differentiates itself from its competitors.

For more information about the HRIA and the Hire Industry Excellence Awards visit: www.hireandrental.com.au.