Member Article

Newcastle’s UNW advises on Cumbrian car dealership acquisition

Newcastle-based UNW has advised on an acquisition deal concerning one of the UK’s oldest BMW/MINI dealerships.

The chartered accountants helped Northern motor company Lloyd Motor Group form the largest privately-owned group of BMW/MINI retailers in the country, after it advised on the acquisition of Bateman of Lindale, in the South Lakes, for an undisclosed sum.

With nearly 90 years’ experience between them, the acquisition will reportedly enhance and grow the business and increases Lloyd Motor Group’s investment in the North with dealerships in Newcastle, Carlisle, Kelso, Cockermouth, Blackpool and Colne.

Lloyd Motor Group was advised by UNW, which is based in Citygate on Newcastle’s St. James’ Boulevard, on all tax matters relating to the transaction and all legals by Carlisle’s Baines Wilson.

UNW tax partner David Ward said: “UNW is proud to have worked with Lloyd Motor Group on this fast moving, significant Cumbrian acquisition that was completed within a month and cements Lloyd’s position with BMW and MINI in the region.”

The dealership will be rebranded as Lloyd South Lakes and will be serving South Cumbria and the Lakes, as well as the Lancaster and Morecambe areas.

Bryan Lloyd, Lloyd Motor Group Managing Director, said: “Bateman of Lindale is a perfect fit for us. It complements our existing BMW/MINI offering across the North as it is similar to us in aspiration as well as sharing a passion for excellent customer service delivery.”

In addition, the Cumbrian-based group has purchased land in Blackpool for development into a prestige used car centre.

Lloyd Motor Group Franchise Director Gary Bingley added: “This is a very exciting time for us as our business has grown over the years and now with six BMW/MINI dealerships strong, our expanding family means we can offer even more choice for our customers”.

Lloyd Motor Group was founded in 1976 and today represents some of the world’s leading prestige manufacturers.

The company continues to be owned and managed by the Lloyd family. Together with Lloyd Ltd, they now employ over 1,000 people, all dedicated to providing the unique standards of service and attention to detail on which it has built its reputation.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →