MCF supports A-Katsastus Group in the divestment of its operations in Sweden, the Baltics and Poland
MCF advised A-Katsastus Group Oy (“A-Katsastus Group”), a portfolio company of Bridgepoint and a European leader in vehicle inspections, in the divestment of the group’s operations in Sweden, the Baltic countries and Poland to IK Investment Partners (“IK”). A-Katsastus Group operates in five countries with their market leading brands. In this transaction, the Swedish, Estonian, Latvian, and Polish operations, Carspect, A-Ülevaatus, SIA Scantest, and Autotest Polska, were divested. MCF’s knowledge of the vehicle inspection markets and its presence in both Finland and Sweden contributed significantly to the successful outcome of the transaction.
The Deal
The strategy of A-Katsastus Group going forward is to focus on developing its business activities in Finland and accordingly, the group will divest its operations outside of Finland.
The divested entities comprise a network of approx. 375 employees and 106 stations with service offering comprising Periodic Technical Inspections (PTI), registration inspections, voluntary condition checks and related services for passenger cars, light trucks, buses, and lorries.
The entire share of A-Katsastus Group in the target companies is acquired by IK with management investing alongside the purchaser. The market for vehicle inspection services is expected to continue to develop over the coming years. Thus, the four companies offer significant potential to realise growth opportunities in each country under IK’s leadership.
The Target
A-Katsastus entered the Swedish market with its newly established brand Carspect in July 2010. The first station was in Tyresö, just outside Stockholm, and it has been successful ever since. Today, Carspect has more than 70 stations and 250 employees in Sweden. In the Baltic and Polish markets A-Ülevaatus, SIA Scantest, and Autotest Polska are among the market leaders as well with strong brands and a superior concept with central locations, clean facilities, mobile-friendly websites and strong focus on customer service.
Client Statement
Kari Kivikoski, the CEO of A-Katsastus Group, said: ”We are very happy with MCF’s service and the co-operation between their Finnish and Swedish teams has worked well throughout the transaction process. With this divestment, we reached an important milestone for A-Katsastus Group and can now focus fully on developing our operations in Finland.”
About A-Katsastus Group
A-Katsastus Group is the leading vehicle inspection company in Northern Europe with 273 stations in Finland, Sweden, Poland, Estonia and Latvia. Its main activity is the provision of compulsory vehicle inspections and certifications for all light and heavy motor vehicles over three years of age. It is also licensed to offer statutory drivers’ examinations and is the market leader in vehicle registrations as well as providing related services such as vehicle insurance.
