Elysian Capital III LP supports Activate Group Holdings Limited to acquire Avant Group

Elysian Capital is pleased to announce further investment in Fund III portfolio company, Activate Group Holdings Limited (“Activate”) to support the acquisition of Avant Consult Ltd (“Avant Group”).

Activate provides accident management services to insurance groups and corporate fleet operators through its MRN and Sopp+Sopp brands, undertaking the vehicle repairs either in house through its own network of repair centres or externally through its network of third-party repair centres. Elysian Capital is supporting management in their expansion of the Group through both organic and acquisitive growth.

Avant is a well-established collision repair specialist known for its manufacturer programme expertise, bodyshop management technology, and award-winning repair network. As part of the deal Activate Group has acquired Avant Group’s three key brands: Avant Consult, Avant Repair Network and Bodynet.

The move brings together two highly complementary businesses with shared strengths in the insurance, fleet and repair sectors - with a combined track record of managing hundreds of thousands of motor claims each year.

Avant’s leadership team will remain in place. Mark Johnstone will continue to head up the business, joining the Activate Group Executive Team as Managing Director of AvantGroup. 

Hannah Wilcox, Activate Group CEO said:

“This marks a significant milestone for Activate Group. Avant Group’s particular expertise enhances our existing proposition and supports our ambition to deliver the UK’s most advanced, end-to-end accident and repair solutions. Together, we’re giving insurers, fleets and partners even more reasons to choose our services.”

Mark Johnstone added: 

“Joining Activate Group is the next natural step in our growth. We’re proud of the service and culture we’ve built, and the strong relationships we have with our clients and repair partners. Becoming part of Activate Group gives us the opportunity to grow faster, expand our reach and bring even more value to our clients, partners and people, and we’re excited about what we can now achieve together."

Elysian Capital and Activate were advised by: Squire Patton Boggs (legal); Eight Advisory (financial and tax); and Aon (Insurance). The shareholders of Avant were advised by Brown Butler (corporate finance); and Weightmans (legal).