Montagu Private Equity sells British Car Auctions to Clayton, Dubilier & Rice
Montagu Private Equity (“Montagu”), one of Europe’s leading private
equity companies, announces the sale of British Car Auctions
(“BCA”), Europe’s leading vehicle remarketing business, to
CD&R, the result of a competitive bid process.
Montagu led the buyout of BCA in October 2006 from a collection of
private shareholders. The business was divided into an operating
company, which is being sold to CD&R, and a property arm, which
is being retained by Montagu.
Under Montagu’s ownership, BCA has grown its sales and profit by
more than 30%. This is as a result of the management team’s
execution of their business plan, supported by a significant
investment programme into new sites, technology development and two
strategic acquisitions.
Wiet Stokhuyzen, Montagu Private Equity Director, said:
“BCA is a highly attractive business which has shown resilience and
continued growth in spite of the recession. It is run by a talented
and ambitious management team who have a clear vision for BCA and
we expect the business to continue to excel. This transaction will
generate a good return for Montagu investors and illustrates that
there is a strong market for first-rate companies. It is also a
further example of the strength of Montagu’s portfolio, which is
diversified across a number of defensive businesses.”
Jon Olsen, CEO of BCA, said:
“We are proud of the progress the business has made over the last
three years. Montagu has been a supportive partner in the further
development of BCA as Europe’s pre-eminent used vehicle remarketer.
Going into 2010 we have more sites selling more vehicles to more
customers via more channels than ever before. This will enable us
to continue to deliver the high level of service our customers have
come to expect. As a consequence, we look to the future with
confidence and look forward to working with CD&R in continuing
to grow our business.”
Montagu Private Equity was advised by UBS Investment Bank.
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