Halifax business AGL launches new group following trio of acquisitions

Halifax-based Activate Group Ltd (AGL) has announced the acquisitions of three brands in the vehicle repair, insurance claims and technology sectors.

AGL has acquired Sopp + Sopp, a Peterborough-based commercial and fleet repair specialist; Car Repair Network (CRN), a Yorkshire-based personal lines repair and engineering management provider, and Vigilance; a specialist claims technology company which deploys solutions to support insurers fight against fraud.

As a result of the deals, a new group of companies has been formed and launched today. The group brings together service providers for a nationwide customer base of clients in the vehicle fleet management and motor insurance sector.

The business is led by executive chairman Mark Woods, a former insurance executive with experience at brands including Swinton and Insurance Australia Group.

He is joined by chairman Mark Wilcox, who founded Leeds-based AGS Risk solutions in 1999 before its sale to ExamWorks UK in 2014. The founding trio also includes Mark’s daughter Hannah Wilcox, who takes on the role of group chief operating officer and COO of CRN.

Mark Woods said: “I’m very excited to officially unveil the AGL group of companies today. From a standing start, AGL can provide customers with access to a nationwide network of over 500 independent vehicle repair specialists, over 120 staff including an in-house engineering workforce and a wide range of innovative technologies.”

Mark Wilcox, chairman of AGL, added: “The brands we have acquired are well established with strong customer relationships in the fleet management, corporate and insurance markets.

“These relationships will be carefully nurtured and maintained with the immediate benefit of an expanded group capability that can provide tailored solutions for clients.”

Within individual business units, Sopp+Sopp managing director Jamie Sopp remains in place to lead the business. He is supported by an executive team of Matthew Henson (operations director), Callum Langan (head of account management), Martin Key (network manager) and Paul Dagless (financial controller).

Car Repair Network is led by COO Hannah Wilcox and general manager Lauren Probitts.

Vigilance is led by its founder Ryan Venter, who continues in his role as managing director.

Mr Woods commented: “This is a business full of opportunity. AGL is focused on combining the very best from its people, technology and a nationwide, independent repair network to deliver a competitive product.

“I am pleased we have been able to attract colleagues of the calibre of David, Shaun, Peter, Jon and Sarah and look forward to making further announcements as we grow and develop AGL.”

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