The former UK head of Snap-On Sun Tech Systems Richard Tomkins is preparing to launch his own garage equipment business, which is set to compete against his former employers.

XTEC Equipment, based in the Midlands, will commence trading in March.

“For many months I have been bringing together a collection of products which, in many cases, are new to the UK, together with a full range of end user support services, such as training, technical data and technical help,” says Tomkins.

He left King’s Lynn-based Snap-On in December 2003, and shortly afterwards became the UK distributor for Italian diagnostic equipment company Texa. This operation will now be absorbed into the XTEC business.

Tomkins says: “I believe that the aftersales support we will provide to our customers is immensely important. Even the best informed user needs help sometimes and we will be there to offer it.”

The imported equipment range, much of which will be exclusive to XTEC, will include products for diagnostics, emissions, wheel alignment and air conditioning recycling. XTEC will also provide low cost vehicle database upgrades for diagnostics up to five times a year.

“I don’t believe in a one size fits all philosophy which is why XTEC Equipment has put together a range of products which will provide customers with a choice that suits their pockets and application needs,” adds Tomkins.