Nationwide Accident Repair Services has agreed a deal to buy independent bodyshop chain Just Car Clinics for £13.77 million.

Nationwide says the offer, which remains conditional on the approval of shareholders of JCC and is expected to close in September, will complement its existing network of UK bodyshops and services.

Michael Wilmshurst, CEO of Nationwide Accident Repair Services, said: “Just Car Clinics is one of the UK’s leading independent bodyshop groups and I am delighted that we have reached an agreement with its board on the terms of a recommended cash offer.

"The business is well-run with a good team and a similar customer-centric approach. Its addition enhances our mobile, rapid repair and traditional fixed site offering and will enable us to serve our customers more efficiently.

"The agreement is our first with new investors, The Carlyle Group, which shares our vision of the growth opportunities that exist for Nationwide.

"I look forward to welcoming the team of JCC to Nationwide and am confident of the benefits both business will gain by working together.”

Nationwide has more than 70 accident repair centres across England, Scotland and Wales, and has dedicated mobile repair fleets which repair light damage and automotive glass. Other services include accident administration, courtesy cars and salvage management.

Just Car Clinics has 28 bodyshops located across a corridor from Swindon in the south west to Durham in the north east, with two further sites in Scotland. It provides vehicle repair services to motor insurers, fleet and retail customers.

Barry Whittles, CEO of Just Car Clinics, said: “We are delighted to have reached this agreement with Nationwide, which has the unanimous support of all JCC directors.

"We believe that the two companies fit well together. Nationwide is well-respected in the sector and we look forward to combining our strengths in order to deliver our customers enhanced services.”