British Car Auctions

In October 2006, Montagu led and arranged the management buyout of British Car Auctions ('BCA') from a collection of private shareholders.

BCA is Europe's leading provider of used vehicle remarketing services. Its multi-channel remarketing capabilities, combined with vehicle related ancillary services assist fleet operators, dealers, manufacturers, finance & leasing companies and rental companies realise the optimum residual values on their used vehicles. BCA has a network of 43 remarketing centres in 12 countries across Europe and offers a full range of services to buy and sell used vehicles.

BCA's highly regarded management team has delivered consistent and profitable growth for over a decade. Montagu was attracted by this excellent track record and the opportunity to invest in further growth, particularly in Europe where BCA has developed a strong position.

Under Montagu's ownership, BCA grew its sales and profit by more than 30%. This was as a result of the management team's execution of their business plan, supported by a significant investment programme into new sites, technology development and two strategic acquisitions.

The business was divided into an operating company, which was sold to CD&R in 2010, and property arm, which as retained by Montagu. Overall, Montagu's return on the investment to date has been two times its investment cost, excluding the value of the remaining property portfolio.