Long-established Swindon tyre and exhaust fitter Bell Silencer Services has been sold to a major national company, fulfilling a “family legacy” for its founder’s widow.
Old Town-based Bell Silencer Services was established in 1977 by engineer Ron Bell and has grown into one of the country’s leading independent tyre and exhaust suppliers.
It fits equipment for motorists with ‘everyday’ cars but also owners of elite sport cars, including Ferraris and Aston Martins, and is known for its skilled craftsmen.
Its sale to national tyre supplier Micheldever, a private equity-backed firm based in Winchester, means it will continue to grow. The deal was led by the Swindon office of corporate finance specialists Watersheds with solicitors from law firm Thrings’ office in the town providing expert support.
Ron Bell died in 2011. The business was co-owned by his widow Christine and their son Matthew until its sale to Micheldever.
Christine, who is now semi-retired, said: “When my husband started considering retirement it was always his aspiration to sell it to Micheldever, so this sale represents the conclusion of a family legacy for us.
“We are now looking forward to seeing the company grow as part a bigger national group.”
The deal was concluded in just over four months and was orchestrated, managed and concluded by Watersheds.
Watersheds partner Jessica Painter said: “The negotiations were concluded swiftly and efficiently and all parties involved were delighted with the outcome.
“The name of the company will be retained and the sale will also see more direct resources being invested into growing the business, cementing its future in high-quality service and high-performance product range.”
Micheldever, founded in 1972 as a part-time venture providing car servicing and tyres, is now the largest independent tyre wholesaler, distributor and retailer in the UK, selling 6m tyres nationwide – around 20% of the total UK market.
The acquisition of Bell Silencer Services is the latest in a series of takeovers as part of an expansion drive – in the past nine months alone it has acquired 27 fast-fit centres.
Financial details of the Bell Silencer Services deal have not been disclosed.
Pictured: Watersheds partner Jessica Painter outside Bell’s Old Town premises
