After a string of acquisitions since flotation two years ago, Carter & Carter has set its sights on buying Thatcham, the accident repair research and training organization.

AM understands that a bid has been tabled, which is due to be discussed by Thatcham’s board at its next board meeting in February.

Thatcham runs training courses for body repair and mechanical repair apprentices, and is a training partner for several carmakers, including Rolls-Royce, BMW and Peugeot. The not-for-profit research organization, which is funded by more than 30 of the UK’s motor insurance companies, also conducts research on behalf of its members into repair times, non-OE crash repair parts, vehicle safety and security systems.

A spokeswoman for Thatcham says: “It is a rumour and we cannot comment on it.”

One industry analyst says: “Thatcham’s training arm is a logical piece in the jigsaw.  But I would be amazed if insurers supported such a deal as they would be concerned about price increases and changes to training being offered.”