Thursfields advises Wiper Blades Ltd on £3.5 million sale to Vertu Motors

The corporate team at Thursfields Solicitors has advised the principal shareholders of Worcestershire-based Wiper Blades Ltd on its £3.5 million sale to Gateshead-based Vertu Motors.

Thursfields director Gareth Burge and Joe Rollins provided corporate advice, assisted by Lisa Kemp on employment issues and Robert Pettigrew on commercial property matters.

Gareth Burge said: “Wiper Blades, which was formed in 2005, is a leading e-commerce business specialising in the online sale of car wiper blades and other associated products.

“We were delighted to advise on its sale to Vertu Motors, one of the UK’s leading automotive retailers with a network of 160 sales and aftersales outlets.

“The businesses make a perfect match and we wish everyone involved the very best for what look like great business prospects.”

Vertu Motors dealerships operate predominantly under the Bristol Street Motors, Vertu and Macklin Motors brand names.

Robert Forrester, chief executive of Vertu Motors, explained that the purchase was in line with the group’s strategy to develop ancillary businesses to add revenue and profit streams, plus digital capabilities and reach, to the core business.

Mr Forrester said: “Our e-commerce parts business is performing strongly and the addition of Wiper Blades will be accretive both financially and strategically to that part of the group.”

Other advisers to the principal shareholders of Wiper Blades included Ballards LLP on financial, tax and accounting matters. Vertu was advised by Muckle LLP.