Cripps advises Kent based Big Motoring World on strategic acquisition

Cripps’ corporate team has advised Big Motoring World on the acquisition of Peterborough-based used car group SW Car Supermarket.

This acquisition increases Big Motoring World’s footprint to five used car supermarkets and also marks the start of a UK-wide expansion plan and a soft-launch for its new corporate identity. The business is now actively seeking further premises across major metropolitan hubs, including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, Derby and Leeds as part of a bid to grow its footprint further.

The Cripps team, which included Salim Somjee, Katie Haylock, Harnik Singh, Kendra Voogdt (all Corporate), Camilla Beamish (Employment) and Glenn Godfrey (Commercial Real Estate), advised on all legal aspects of the transaction.

Commenting on the acquisition, Peter Waddell (CEO, Big Motoring World) said: “Our ambitions for the group are – like our name suggests – big. We have established a well-proven business model that’s sustainable even in the toughest economic environments. Our customers love our straight-forward and honest approach to vehicle retailing and the value proposition we offer. Our vehicles are priced to sell and we focus heavily on the customer experience, eliminating the pain points seen at most dealerships.”

Commenting on the legal support provided, Peter said: “I am grateful to Cripps for all its help getting the deal over the line; the team was responsive and focussed on looking after our interests.”

Salim Somjee, partner, commented: “We are proud to have worked on this key deal for one of Kent’s fastest growing and successful businesses. It is remarkable to see how much the business has grown since we first worked with Peter 6 years ago, particularly during the pandemic, and I am sure that this is just the next step in an exciting journey, rather than the end of the road!”