Elite Garages Expands to 38 Centres Following Major ATS Euromaster Deal

Elite Garages has announced the acquisition of 14 branches from ATS Euromaster, following ATS Euromaster’s proposal to cease UK operations.

The agreement includes the TUPE transfer of 61 members of staff, with both businesses working towards a transfer date of 18 April 2026, when ownership of the sites will officially pass to Elite Garages.

A Significant Milestone for a 65-Year-Old Family Business

Founded in the 1960s as a single garage, Elite Garages has grown steadily over more than six decades into one of the South of England’s most respected independent automotive service providers.

With the addition of the 14 new sites, the Elite Group now consists of:

  • 38 vehicle repair centres
  • 9 petrol filling stations with convenience stores and Post Offices
  • A Morrisons Daily supermarket in Shaftesbury
  • EG Wholesale, its tyre wholesale division operating from 9 warehouses
  • A rental property business with 25 commercial and residential tenants

This expansion further strengthens Elite’s long-term commitment to supporting motorists with reliable, high-quality vehicle care across the region.

A Word from Richard Whittemore: Family Values at the Core of Expansion

Richard Whittemore, Managing Director of Elite Garages, commented:

“The acquisition of these 14 ATS Euromaster locations marks a significant milestone for our family business. We will work closely with ATS Euromaster to ensure a smooth and supportive transition for all employees, and we look forward to welcoming these new colleagues into the team. Together, we will ensure ongoing service for existing customers while continuing to grow each location through investment in recruitment, equipment and training. While we have grown considerably over the years, family values remain at the heart of everything we do, and we are incredibly grateful to the many colleagues who have contributed to our success. We remain committed to delivering a professional service with a personal approach in every community we serve.”

From Four Branches to 38: Growth Built on Experience

Dave Morrison, Retail Operations Manager, highlighted the scale of the company’s evolution:

“When I joined Elite nearly 30 years ago, the business operated just four branches with around 30 employees. With the new sites, we will have 38 retail branches and over 400 colleagues. It has been incredible to see how the company has evolved and grown. In recent years, we have successfully acquired eight ATS Euromaster locations and these branches have already become an important part of the Elite Garages family. We are excited to welcome a further 14 branches and look forward to building on that success. We are planning a strong focus on recruitment to ensure every branch is fully supported, alongside continued investment in training.”

Elite Garages will continue its partnership with Bosch Car Service, reinforcing its commitment to advanced diagnostic training, tyre technical expertise and mechanical development. This ongoing collaboration supports consistent service standards across every location within the expanding network.

What Customers Can Expect

Customers visiting the newly acquired branches can expect the same standards that have defined Elite Garages for more than six decades. That means transparent pricing, qualified technicians, modern diagnostic equipment and a clear focus on customer care.

Across its expanding retail network, Elite Garages offers:

  • MOT testing
  • Vehicle servicing
  • Diagnostics and mechanical repairs
  • Extensive tyre ranges, from budget to premium and high-performance
  • Online tyre reservation with convenient same-day fitting
  • Free vehicle safety checks throughout the year

By combining local familiarity with the strength of a growing regional network, Elite aims to provide continuity for existing ATS customers while quickly establishing itself as a trusted, long-term presence in each new community.

The 14 Branches Joining the Elite Garages Network

The proposed transfer includes 14 strategically located sites across the South of England, strengthening Elite’s presence in key towns and regional centres.

A Google Map illustration showing the existing Elite Garages locations in red and green, with blue pins showing ATS branches joining the Elite Group.
Red and green pins: existing retail/wholesale/forecourt locations | Blue pins: ATS branches joining the Elite Group

These additions expand the company’s footprint into new communities while complementing existing branches across Hampshire, Sussex, Kent, Surrey and beyond. The move not only increases convenience for motorists but also enhances Elite’s ability to support local fleets, businesses and private vehicle owners with consistent service standards.

The branches joining the Elite Garages network include the following:

Continuing a Legacy of Family Values

With a history spanning more than 65 years, Elite Garages remains proudly family-run, combining modern automotive expertise with long-established family principles.

As the business enters its next phase of growth, this acquisition represents not just an increase in branch numbers, but a reaffirmation of its commitment to investment in people, communities and long-term service excellence.

Whether customers are booking an MOT, reserving tyres online or arranging servicing, the company’s focus remains unchanged: quality workmanship and trusted local service.

Visit the website for more information on our services and locations.