ECA's New King George, VA Branch Boosts Support for Growing DC Market
Jul 22, 2024
Equipment Corporation of America (ECA) is proud to announce the relocation of its office in Upper Marlboro, MD to its new location at 12284 State Road in King George, VA. The move to the new branch, which began in earnest back in March 2024, gives ECA customers in the growing DC market a load of additional support.
The quest for a new branch location has been a long-term project, spanning over 15 years. The need for a larger, more efficient space became evident as the company outgrew its previous facility. ECA Vice President of Operations David Hyland had been in talks with several at the branch including former branch manager Mike Brown, service manager Buddy Austin, and account manager Dave Schell, all long-time fixtures at the DC branch, for some time about the need for a larger branch location.
The search intensified when ECA Parts and Service Director, Joel Ross, discovered a property on LoopNet in February of 2023.
"He found it on a Saturday morning, and by 7 a.m., I was there checking it out. The potential was promising," recalled Schell, who was one of several advocating for the new location.
The new location, a 7.5-acre property, is a significant upgrade from their previous 1.8-acre site. This expansion allows ECA to build up inventory, accommodate larger equipment, and enhance overall operations.
"Now we can stock more equipment and have a more significant on-ground presence. We're also closer to the Carolinas, which is a growing market for us," said Hyland. This geographical advantage simplifies logistics and strengthens customer relationships in Virginia and the Carolinas.
The state-of-the-art facility boasts three full-service bays, a considerable improvement from the previous single bay. This upgrade allows for more extensive and efficient handling of customer rigs.
"We can take on larger projects without disrupting day-to-day operations. This means better service for our customers and a more attractive workplace for potential employees," Hyland notes. The new indoor working conditions are a major morale boost for the technicians, providing a comfortable and professional environment.
This relocation was particularly meaningful for Dave Schell, as his father Pete Schell worked for ECA starting in 1976.
"It’s honestly pretty cool. My dad has a legacy in this business. To have the opportunity to follow in his footsteps and expand on what he built is special," Dave said.
This move embodies the values ECA holds dear--a commitment to growth, a focus on quality, and commitment to customer satisfaction. The new Washington DC branch is a physical manifestation of these principles, setting the stage for even greater support in the Virginia and Carolinas region.
"Our new facility not only enhances our operational capabilities but also reflects our dedication to excellence,” Hyland said. “Employees can take pride in their workplace, and customers can trust in the quality of our service."