Lester Aldridge has advised the shareholders of Breeze Motor Group and Ocean Automotive on their sales to Van Mossel Automotive Group, marking Van Mossel’s first major expansion into the UK mainland market.
Van Mossel, one of Europe’s largest automotive retail groups with more than 570 sites, has strengthened its UK presence through these strategic acquisitions. Breeze Motor Group, with a turnover of £155.4 million, represents Volkswagen, Suzuki, and Ducati, while Ocean Automotive, with a turnover of £179 million, operates Audi and Volvo franchises, as well as two accident repair centres, across Poole and Yeovil.
The transaction demonstrates Lester Aldridge’s expertise in advising on strategic automotive-sector M&A and complex cross-border transactions.
The firm’s dedicated deal team was led by Partners Grant Esterhuizen and Jamie Earley, supported by Gerard Chalkly-Maber and Danielle Slater. Partner Adam Corcoran advised on the property aspects of the transaction.
Grant Esterhuizen, Partner at Lester Aldridge, said:
“We are delighted to have supported both transactions, which highlight our expertise in complex cross-border deals and automotive-sector M&A.”
John Corderoy, sole shareholder of Breeze, added:
“Lester Aldridge were outstanding advisers — responsive, pragmatic and always one step ahead.”
David Kelly, Chairman and sole shareholder at Ocean Automotive, said:
“Partnering with Lester Aldridge ensured that this transaction was handled with professionalism and care. Their team provided exceptional guidance throughout, making a complex process feel seamless.”
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