Irwin Mitchell Advises On Deal

Eastleigh-based Hendy Group has purchased Lifestyle Motor Group in a deal which creates a group with more than 1,000 employees.

The combined group will operate 12 motor franchises at 25 locations and boast an annual turnover of £560m.

It will also sell in excess of 40,000 cars, vans and trucks each year from its dealerships and two car stores.

Commenting on the deal, Hendy Group’s managing director Paul Hendy said:

"We are delighted that the Lifestyle team is joining the Hendy Group as it has a similar philosophy with a strong commitment to customer care and service.

"This acquisition extends our territory into the South East and adds a number of new franchises to our existing portfolio of Ford, MG, Iveco, Honda, Mazda and Kia."

Marc Matthew, Lifestyle Motor Group’s chairman, added:

"We have built up a strong, profitable and successful business in Kent, Sussex and Surrey and believe this growth will continue with Hendy Group."

Family-owned Hendy Group can trace its roots back to 1859 and became the first Ford dealer in Britain in November 1910 when Henry Ford arrived in Southampton from the US to launch the Ford Motor Company in the UK.

Dean Drew, Corporate partner at the Southampton office of national law firm Irwin Mitchell, advised Hendy Group on the deal.

Expert Opinion

“This is a significant transaction for the region and continues the current trend for consolidation within the motor trade industry. I am delighted to have advised Hendy Group on this deal and wish the combined business a successful future together.” Dean Drew - Partner

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