Steer Automotive Group launches van and truck division

Its takeover of C&C Vehicle Services has led Steer Automotive Group to launch a new division focused on the repair of vans, trucks and other commercial vehicles.

The company said the acquisition complements Steer's current network of car accident repair centres, and delivers on its strategic ambition to enter the growing commercial vehicle sector with a specialist division.

C&C Vehicle Services, which has five bodyshops nationally, has provided repair and refurbishment services for commercial vehicles and trailer units from 3.5 tonnes to 44 tonnes since it was founded in 1986, and it works with customers spanning retail, logistics, waste management and insurers and commercial fleet managers.

Richard Steer, chief executive, said: “Our strategy has always been to grow our existing proposition and to include commercial vehicle specialist locations throughout the country. LCVs represent one in ten new vehicle registrations in the UK and our insurer and accident management clients are looking for specialist operations to tackle this growing sector.

"We are therefore excited to launch Steer Commercial and welcome Mark Newnes, Darren Charlesworth and the accomplished team from C&C Vehicle Services to the Steer family and look forward to supporting them as we grow this important division of our business." 

Mark Newnes, managing director of C&C Vehicle Services, is remaining with the business and will join the Steer Automotive Group operating board, charged with growing the division further.