Steer expansion continues with acquisition of commercial repairer C&C

Steer Automotive Group has acquired C&C Vehicle Services for an undisclosed sum with the aim of building a national commercial vehicle repair network within the group.

Commercial vehicle repairs and refurbishment specialist C&C was first established in 1986 in Oldham and employs around 100 staff at five sites including Chesterfield, Sunderland, Coventry and Wolverhampton. The acquisition complements Steer’s current national network of passenger car repair locations and delivers on its stated ambition to enter the rapidly growing commercial vehicle sector with a specialist division focused on the LCV market.

C&C Vehicle Services has successfully developed a class-leading reputation, providing repair and refurbishment services for commercial vehicles and trailer units from 3.5 tonnes to 44 tonnes. With more than 35 years behind it, C&C works with a customer portfolio spanning retail, logistics and waste management, as well as leading insurers and commercial fleet managers.

C&C managing director Mark Newnes said: “We are thrilled to announce that Steer Automotive has acquired C&C. Bringing us into the Steer family will enable us to grow and expand the business further, in a secure environment, something Darren [Charlesworth] and I have been working towards for the past three years now.

“Steer were looking to develop a commercial vehicle sector offering, and C&C will be the foundation of their steps into this new arena. They are committed to driving growth within our business while supporting our current customers, suppliers and employees.”

Charlesworth, C&C’s financial director, said: “This is a really exciting deal for C&C and our staff. What really stood out to us was that Steer bring loads of energy and positivity to the table. Not only do they have a track record of looking after their people, a priority for me, they have a drive and enthusiasm to develop them.  Their industry leading apprenticeship programme is a shining example of that. They are also committed to supporting our growth aspirations by increasing the number of workshops we have across the country.”

Newnes added: “Darren and I are very proud of the strong performance of C&C over the past three years and with the backing of Steer we are really confident for the future. This acquisition will enable us to invest in the future and build a national commercial network.”