Menzies LLP advises the shareholders of Automotive Compliance Limited (“ACL”) on the sale of the business to Evolution Funding Group Limited (“Evolution”), backed by Carlyle.
ACL is a tech-enabled provider of FCA-regulated compliance services, supporting motor dealers with their responsibilities across motor finance and value-added products. Founded in 2008 and based in Gloucester, the business is recognised for its strong industry expertise and trusted brand. Its systems provide the frameworks, governance and oversight dealers need, whether they are directly authorised or operating as Appointed Representatives, covering showroom processes, finance activity, regulatory reporting, commission disclosure and Consumer Duty.
Evolution is the UK’s largest automotive finance and digital commerce platform, connecting dealers, OEMs, marketplaces and lenders in one integrated, data-driven journey. Formed in 2002 and headquartered in Chesterfield, Evolution is backed by Carlyle (NASDAQ: CG) and includes Evolution Funding, Click Dealer, Motion Finance and Creditas. Together, these businesses support the full automotive finance and digital commerce landscape, from dealer services to embedded platforms and whitelabelled solutions.
As lead sell-side advisor, the Menzies Deal Advisory team provided end-to-end support to ACL, helping prepare the business for sale, identifying potential buyers, leading the negotiation of terms and managing the process, including due diligence, through to a successful conclusion.
The transaction was led by Greg Cox, Partner in the Menzies Deal Advisory team, with transaction support provided by Dominic Howarth.
ACL engaged with Menzies due to their longstanding relationship, proven track record of advising privately owned businesses on exit options, and strong understanding of the automotive market and its key dynamics.
Paul Speakman, Co-founder at ACL, said: “The assistance provided by the Menzies Deal Advisory team on this transaction was second to none. Not only did they help us identify Evolution as the ideal partner, but they also played a critical role in leading negotiations to ensure the transaction delivered against our expectations. The advice and support they provided at every stage of the process were instrumental in getting the deal over the line. We couldn’t have asked for a more committed or capable team.”
Paul Guy, Co-founder at ACL, said: “The Menzies team were exceptional advisers throughout this transaction. They supported us at every stage, led the negotiations with real skill, and kept the deal moving forward with focus and energy. Their knowledge of the sector and their dedication to securing the right outcome were invaluable.”
“With regulation across the automotive industry becoming increasingly complex, ACL’s deep expertise places it in a prime position to guide customers through this fast-changing environment. Evolution’s investment reflects the outstanding reputation the ACL team has built over more than 15 years, and together the combined group is well positioned to broaden its reach and better support clients as the sector continues to transform.”
Greg Cox, Deal Advisory Partner at Menzies, commented:
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