A FAST-growing online musical instruments retailer based in York is stepping up its European sales campaign.

Gear4Music is launching a new multi-lingual website and a wider product range that could mean 15 new jobs.

The firm, which sells musical instruments and equipment, is re-launching its website in 22 new languages and increasing its product range by 20 per cent.

The move comes after it gained business development backing from Yorkshire Bank North Yorkshire Financial Solutions Centre (FSC), York, through its Investing for Growth initiative.

The retailer, based at York Business Park and founded by parent company Red Submarine Ltd in 2003, is upgrading its website to attract business from more European countries.

The drive is expected to create 15 jobs in the next two years.

In the past 12 months, Gear4Music has dispatched more than 90,000 orders for musical instruments from manufacturers including Fender, Gibson and Yamaha, as well as its own-brand music products.

Among its customers are educational establishments and musicians, from beginners to professionals. Many of its call-centre staff are musicians, enabling them to support and understand specialist requirements in the selection and order process.

The business has also recently opened a new warehouse and has more than 53,000 sq ft for offices, showroom and distribution.

Andrew Wass, managing director, said: “We already trade throughout the UK and have a presence in Europe and, in spite of the tough economic climate, are on target to take last year’s £9.4 million turnover to well above £10 million this year.”

He praised the helpfulness of Yorkshire Bank North Yorkshire FSC, and said: “The funding will allow us to place more orders with our manufacturing partners and ensure we can meet customer demand.”

Brian De Vere, business partner at the FSC, said: “Gear4Music is among Yorkshire’s online success stories, combining first-rate customer service and personal knowledge with its online format.”