Accident management services provider Activate Group acquires Avant Group

Accident management services provider Activate Group has acquired collision repair specialist Avant Group.

Activate Group said the move brings together two complementary businesses with shared strengths in the insurance, fleet and repair sectors, with a combined track record of managing hundreds of thousands of motor claims each year.

Activate Group provides claims management services to fleets and insurers through its Sopp+Sopp and Motor Repair Network businesses.

It operates a UK-wide network of approved repairers, which includes 13 owned Activate Accident Repair centres and has a specialist automotive parts division, Activate Parts.

The deal includes Avant Groups three key brands: Avant Consult, Avant Repair Network and Bodynet.

Hannah Wilcox, CEO of Activate Group, said: “This marks a significant milestone for Activate Group.

“Avant Group’s specialist expertise enhances our existing proposition and supports our ambition to deliver the UK’s most advanced, end-to-end accident and repair solutions. Together, we’re giving insurers, fleets and partners even more reasons to choose our services.

“Mark and the Avant team have built a strong business with a great reputation. I’m looking forward to working with them, continuing to deliver the same high-quality service they are known for, and bringing investment and digital infrastructure to ensure continued innovation for customers and partners.”

Activate Groups said businesses will benefit from shared expertise and wider operational support, unlocking new growth opportunities.

Avant Group’s leadership team will remain in place. Mark Johnstone will head up the business, joining the Activate Group Executive Team as managing director of Avant Group.

Avant Repair Network will continue to be led by Chris Ryder and his senior team, and Neil Blackman will remain as account director of the group’s Automotive division.