The Parts Alliance says it has become the first motor factor group to offer a national tool hire programme following the launch of Toolhireclub.com.

The initiative provides access to more than 300 special service tools and diagnostic equipment covering every major area of service and repair.

Membership is by annual subscription, at gold, silver and bronze levels, with different hire price bands depending on the capital cost of the tools.

Paul Dineen, head of The Parts Alliance’s garage programme, said: “We are really excited about our national tool hire programme and the significant benefits it can bring to independent traders.

"It’s about speed and convenience and being able to access specialist tools without the cost of ownership.

“The Parts Alliance is the first motor factor group to truly understand the future for the aftermarket lies in access to tools as opposed to just buying them.

"Our response is what we believe is the smartest, most price competitive tool hire programme in the UK. Savings can be anywhere between 75% and 95% compared to the cost of purchase."

Backed by HgCapital, the mid-market private equity investor, The Parts Alliance is the UK and Ireland’s largest group of wholly owned and franchised businesses supplying OE and quality matching auto parts to national and local independent garages and workshops.