TDR buys Euro Garages stake

Private equity firm TDR Capital has acquired a significant shareholding in Euro Garages, one of the largest independent forecourt operators in the UK with a portfolio of over 340 sites.

The two founding family members, Mohsin and Zuber Issa will continue to lead the group and remain majority shareholders, extending TDR’s experience in consumer facing business and petrol forecourt retailing.

TDR is best known in the region for its investment in Doncaster-based housing and regeneration specialist Keepmoat and for the sale of Leeds-based credit management services firm Lowell Group earlier this year.

Founded in 2001, Euro Garages has grown from a single site to become one of the largest independent forecourt operators in the UK, and the largest owner-manager business in the sector.

The group currently manages sites under BP, Esso and Shell fuel brands and has developed partnerships with global brand partners including Starbucks, Subway, Burger King, SPAR, and Greggs.

Euro Garages and the Issa family were advised by Rothschild (financial adviser) and Eversheds (legal adviser).

Capital was advised by Linklaters (legal adviser).

Mohsin Issa said: “Over 15 years we have built our business and a strong position in the UK forecourt retail market with our superior customer offer supported by partnerships with leading convenience and food-to-go brands.

“TDR understand our business and have significant experience in our sector so are the perfect investment partner as we continue to develop our proposition. This is an exciting new phase for the business and we look forward to working with TDR to grow our business further in the UK and internationally.”