Robinsons Motor Group (Robinsons) is a family owned multi franchise East Anglian dealer group focusing principally on premium brands.
The shareholders were exploring strategies to optimise equity value and engaged us to advise on this process.
Recognising that there were a number of elements driving shareholder value within the business, we, in conjunction with the Board of Robinsons, developed a plan that de-merged the freehold properties from the business and sought an acquirer for the Mercedes-Benz franchises (which represented some 50% of the trading activities).
We advised on the process with an integrated team of sector, corporate finance and tax specialists to execute a complex demerger into three entities and then seek a purchaser for the Mercedes-Benz franchises.
The corporate finance team led the transaction throughout the process. This included preparing sales documentation, identification of strategic buyers and leading negotiations and advising on the legal documents through to completion.
We leveraged their extensive knowledge of the motor retail sector and market leading M&A capability to source a strategic buyer who recognised the premium value inherent in the business. The transaction was led jointly by Paul Burrows, Head of Downstream Automotive, and Steve White, Advisory Director.
"Grant Thornton provided quality advice and service throughout this complex process, helping to deliver an outstanding result for the shareholders. Their knowledge of the sector and the key value drivers, together with a clear strategic view of how best to deliver the shareholders’ objectives was apparent throughout the transaction."
Martin Wallace CEO, Robinsons Motor Group
