Vehicle processing and fleet management company Paragon has acquired Stobart Vehicle Services, previously the vehicle services division of Autologic.

Stobart branding rights dictate another name change, to Paragon Vehicle Services.

The move means Paragon will operate eight new sites – at Corby, Portbury and Doncaster, plus five manufacturer locations – and welcome 500 new employees.

The division will continue to support automotive manufacturers and retailers with new car preparation, customisation, end of line enhancement and the running of port operations.

Stephen Hucklesby, who becomes chief executive officer for the Paragon Group, commented: “This acquisition marks a major milestone for Paragon and consolidates our position as the UK’s market leader.

“Paragon Vehicle Services is an excellent fit with Paragon and underlines our group strategy to expand into complementary service offerings by taking us into new areas of vehicle processing.

“Coupled with this, we will be expanding our geographical network, giving us an important presence in the North East and South West.”