The Vella Group agrees acquisition of RGM Vehicle Body Repairs, with help from FRP

The Vella Group has acquired RGM Vehicle Body Repairs, as the vehicle repair provider looks to expand into Wales. FRP Corporate Finance’s Cardiff team supported the deal, advising The Vella Group throughout the process.

Paul Morgan, director at RGM Vehicle Body Repairs commented, “After 53 years in operation, finding the right home for the business was one of the most important decisions we’ve had to make.  We wanted to work with a business that would value what we’ve built, look after our team and continue delivering the high standards our customers expect. From the outset, it was clear that The Vella Group shared those values, and I’m looking forward to supporting the business through the transition and seeing it go from strength to strength.”

Established in 1986, The Vella Group is a family owned repair group in the UK. Based in Skelmersdale, the firm is now looking to expand its operations throughout the UK. Also family-owned, RGM Vehicle Body Repairs is an accident repair specialist, which has been serving motorists across South Wales for more than 50 years. The business was originally founded by Robert Morgan and is now led by Paul Morgan.

As part of the deal, Paul Morgan will remain with the business on a consultancy basis to help ensure a smooth transition for its 40 colleagues, its customers and partners. Meanwhile, The Vella Group will expand its footprint into Wales and deepen its specialisms, enhancing its service to customers seeking vehicle repairs following accidents.

Marc Holding, chief executive officer at The Vella Group, added, “We’re delighted to welcome Paul and everyone at RGM to the Vella Group. They’ve built a fantastic reputation over many years through hard work, integrity and consistently delivering for their customers. Businesses like RGM don’t earn that reputation overnight, and we’re committed to preserving everything that has made the business so successful while supporting its next chapter.”

Private equity was provided by Ama Capital and Keyhaven. Other advisers included, Broadfield (Legal), and Crowe (FDD/TDD). FRP Corporate Finance has advised The Vella Group on its acquisition of RGM Vehicle Body Repairs.

FRP Corporate Finance’s team was led by partner Thomas Edwards and manager Alexander Griffiths. They advised on offer structure, project managed due diligence workstreams and led negotiations on equity price adjustments. This marks the fifth deal on which FRP Corporate Finance has advised The Vella Group.

Alexander Griffiths, manager at FRP Corporate Finance, said, “It has been a privilege to support The Vella Group as it has continued to grow and strengthen its position as one of the UK’s leading accident repair groups. This acquisition further demonstrates Vella’s commitment to strategic growth, expanding its geographic footprint and reinforcing its strong position in the market. RGM has become a well-established specialist provider over five decades, focusing on quality workmanship, investing in its people and always putting customers first. Those values closely align with The Vella Group’s own approach to building a sustainable, values-led business.”