BPE Solicitors LLP is pleased to have advised Autoclenz Holdings Limited on its transition to employee ownership in a landmark deal.
The transaction saw an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) acquire 100% of the share capital in Autoclenz Holdings Limited – the parent company of the Autoclenz group, which delivers specialist valeting and preparation services to leading car dealerships, auction centres and automotive brands across the UK.
Led by Kathryn King, Partner and Head of BPE’s Corporate and Commercial team, the deal marks a significant strategic milestone for Autoclenz, providing its workforce with greater collective ownership and long-term stability. Kathryn was supported by Associate Joley Croft and Trainee Solicitor Jasmine Bailey, with further advice provided by Associate Emily Arnold from the Employment team and Senior Associate Thomas Christie from the Commercial Property team.
Kathryn King, who led the transaction, said:
“It was a pleasure to support the management team of Autoclenz in achieving a succession plan that rewards the contribution of their employees and secures the business for the future. Employee Ownership Trusts have grown in popularity in recent years as a practical and tax-efficient exit route – and this deal, with its significant value and complexity, shows just how well the model can work when implemented with care.”
Autoclenz joins a growing number of businesses in the UK choosing the EOT model, introduced in 2014 to promote employee engagement and long-term business sustainability. The structure allows employees to benefit from the future success of the company while providing former owners with a viable exit strategy.
Adam Reynolds, Non-Executive Chairman of Autoclenz and a key shareholder in the transaction, commented:
“We are incredibly proud of what the Autoclenz team has achieved and are confident that this move to employee ownership will secure the future of the business for years to come. BPE have been a trusted adviser throughout this process, offering practical and timely commercial guidance from start to finish. Kathryn and her team were instrumental in delivering this complex transaction smoothly and efficiently.”
The EOT structure will allow Autoclenz’s 600+ workforce to benefit from a stake in the business without the need to purchase shares individually. As part of the arrangement, existing management will remain in place, ensuring continuity for clients and staff alike.
Other trusted advisors include Nick Michaels, Director at Alfred Henry Corporate Finance and Parminder Chattha, Tax Partner at Data Owl.
BPE Solicitors continues to advise a wide range of clients on EOT transactions, corporate restructures, and employee incentive arrangements as part of its broader corporate advisory offering. The firm’s ability to combine commercial, employment, and property law expertise under one roof was key to the unified delivery of this high-value deal.
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