34 DEALMAKERS
BOWKER IN THE DRIVING SEAT
Bowker Motor Group has expanded its prestige automotive franchise portfolio by acquiring Porsche Centre Bolton from Lithia Motors Group UK.
It joins Porsche Centre Preston in Bowker Motor Group’s portfolio of eight dealerships, which also includes franchises of BMW, MINI, BMW Motorrad and INEOS Automotive.
Ross Shekleton with Iain Swinson, Ashvin Metals financial director ON THEIR METAL
Ashvin Metals, a leading name in the UK non-ferrous metal industry, has acquired Burnley-based Metro Metals in a deal which has created a £130m turnover business.
The acquisition marks a “significant milestone” for the Poulton-le-Fylde-based company, enhancing its operational capabilities and expanding its market offerings.
No figure has been put on the deal, with Ashvin saying it will help “solidify” its reputation as one of the UK’s most dynamic players in the recycling and processing of ferrous and non- ferrous metals.
Founded in 1958, Metro Metals has long been a cornerstone in Lancashire’s metal recycling sector, specialising in ferrous scrap processing.
The acquisition enables Ashvin to bolster its portfolio with ferrous metal recycling capabilities, expanding production capacity through Metro Metals’ state-of-the-art processing facility.
Iain Swinson, Ashvin Metals finance director, said: “This acquisition represents a strategic step forward for Ashvin Metals.
“It not only broadens our service offerings to include ferrous metals like steel and iron, but also brings with it a legacy of excellence that Metro Metals has cultivated over decades.
“By combining our expertise, we aim to redefine service standards in the metal recycling industry and provide unmatched value to our customers worldwide.”
Metro Metals will continue to operate from the Heasandford Industrial Estate, Burnley, with all staff remaining in the business.
Previous owner, Ross Shekleton, will remain involved during an interim period to advise the new owners as they familiarise themselves with the operations of the business.
He said: “This decision is bittersweet for me. Metro Metals has been such a huge part of my life and my family’s history.
“My father started the business over 60 years ago, and it has been a privilege to carry his legacy forward.
“But, with my own children pursuing other careers, I knew I wouldn’t be passing the business on, so selling felt like the right decision.
“Having worked with Ashvin Metals for many years, I am confident the business is in highly capable hands. Their expertise and vision will ensure that Metro Metals continues to grow and succeed within the larger Ashvin Metals group.”
As well as its operations in Poulton and Burnley, Ashvin also operates a site in the midlands and Inglemere Metals in Blackpool.
It also recently set up Ashvin Can Recycling following the purchase of machinery from Borcan, to process aluminium beverage cans in Padiham. The acquisition of Metro Metals it expands its overall workforce to 60.
The Bolton dealership opened in August 2006. It employs more than 50 staff and serves Porsche owners and enthusiasts in the Greater Manchester area. No figure has been put on the deal.
The centre will now operate under the Bowker Motor Group, a Lancashire family- run business known for its strong regional presence. The acquisition came as the group celebrates its 40th anniversary.
Chief executive Paul Bowker, said: “This acquisition reinforces our commitment to delivering exceptional service to Porsche customers across the North West.
“Bowker Motor Group celebrates its 40th year in automotive retail this year. The values that built the business when we started are the same values that we see in Porsche Centre Bolton.
“We are proud to play our part in the next chapter of the centre’s success.”
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