The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) delivered robust gains recently but there's one ASX sector that's being left behind – although the tide could be turning.
This group of ASX shares are industrial equipment rental companies and their shares haven't been invited to the party.
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The ASX sector that's the underdog in this bull market
For instance, the Seven Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: SVW) share price has fallen 7.4% over the past year.
The Emeco Holdings Limited (ASX: EHL) share price and NRW Holdings Limited (ASX: NWH) share price have also fallen behind with an 11% drop and 2% gain, respectively, over the year.
In contrast, the ASX 200 index jumped 9% over the period, thanks in large part to surging commodity prices.
Turnaround could be in the wings
But there might be too much pessimism in this ASX sector. The latest report from UBS on a "fireside chat" with the chief executive of Orange Hire, Greg Parfitt, highlights the sector's strong outlook.
Orange Hire is an Australian private company operating in the infrastructure and equipment hire markets. It owns a fleet valued at around $110 million across the east coast of the country.
Best conditions in 30 years
There were four key takeaways that UBS got from the interview. The first is the accelerating utilisation rate for Orange Hire's equipment which now stands in the low 70% from mid 50% in the December half. The improvement comes despite adverse weather disruptions.
There is also a rebound in tendering activity for equipment hire. Demand is strong across key construction sectors, like infrastructure, housing, mining and renewables.
"Greg noted these are the most favourable conditions he has seen in over 30yrs in the equipment hire industry," said UBS.
Pricing power meets bullish outlook
The surge in demand comes at the right time for the sector too, which like the rest of the economy, is facing rising costs.
"The strong demand backdrop is supporting a favourable pricing environment with Orange Hire having successfully pushed through two 3% price increases in FY22, with another planned within the next 3 months," added the broker.
Just as importantly, the outlook for the sector is positive for FY23. Parfitt is expecting equipment hire sales growth to hit at least double digits. The growth is driven by the strong civil construction tendering environment, as well as price increases.
The ASX share that is best placed to benefit from this thematic is Seven Group, according to UBS. The group owns Coats Hire, Australia's largest equipment rental firm, and WestTrac, which is a Caterpillar equipment dealer.
