WAT vs SUNB Comparison

Waters sells liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, and thermal analysis tools. These analytical instruments provide essential information on various products, such as their molecular structures and physical properties, to help clients enhance the health and well-being of end users. In early 2026, Waters merged with BD's life science and diagnostics business, which increased its concentration in diagnostics (versus none now) and discovery-related life science tools.

Sunbelt Rentals (formerly UK-based Ashtead Group) is the number two equipment rental company in the US (11% market share), with a smaller presence in Canada and the UK. Sunbelt operates a rental fleet of just over $15 billion across a network of 1,200 stores in the US, nearly CAD 2 billion of fleet and 135 stores in Canada, and GBP 1.1 billion and 190 stores in the UK. The company has experienced rapid growth over the past decade as its customers increasingly turn to rental versus owning equipment outright. The general tool business has been augmented by the Specialty Rental business, which has grown to 30% of the mix. Revenue is now greater than 50% nonconstruction, with the remainder focused more directly on commercial construction.