POWER tool hiring company Elcocks is to invest in its digital capability and online sales channel, as well as expand its product range, after receiving a £500,000 funding package.

York-based Elcocks, which was established in 1971 by Claude Elcock, has been awarded the funding from from Santander Corporate & Commercial.

Since its launch the business has grown substantially with the addition of branches in Driffield and Goole while the range of products has expanded to meet the changing demands of the market.

The business is very much a family business and is now run by Claude’s son Ivan with his two children, Claire and Andrew.

The funding from Santander Corporate & Commercial will allow Elcocks to expand its hire fleet with the addition of the latest machines including new Hitachi power saws, sweepers and steam cleaners.

The funding will also allow for more staff training to ensure all employees can answer any customer queries related to the goods sold.

Elcocks directors say they are keen to move with the digital age and will also be investing in a ‘click and collect’ service for local customers.

Ivan Elcock, company secretary at Elcocks, said: "Elcocks is very much a family business and the increased involvement of Claire and Andrew signifies that we are moving into the next generation.

"We have always been aware of the need to move with the times and our plans to invest in new digital services for our customers is a real testament to this."

Riana Azam, relationship director at Santander Corporate & Commercial, said: "Elcocks is an excellent example of a family business which has been able to diversify and now offers customers a wide range of products and services.

"Customer service is at the core of this business, as shown in their investment in training, and we at Santander are confident that because of this, the Elcock family will continue its success in the future."

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