Anglo Scottish Asset Finance Completes Management Buyout

Anglo Scottish Asset Finance, based in Durham has shared the news of its recently completed management buyout (MBO), marking a significant step in regaining control of the business.

The investment supporting this move comes from a group of UK-based funders, including the company's original founding directors, the wider management team, current employees, and contractual agents.

Since its establishment in 2007, Anglo Scottish has become a notable name in the finance brokerage sector. In 2015, the company was acquired by the McMillan Shakespeare Group, an Australian publicly listed entity. However, following a strategic decision to exit the UK market and focus on its core operations in Australia, McMillan Shakespeare Group sought a suitable buyer for its UK operations.

The MBO is set to enhance Anglo Scottish's footprint in the UK market. The company aims to introduce new financing options for its customers, forge new partnerships and joint ventures, and strengthen its existing relationships with funding partners. Embracing new technologies and expanding its capacity to acquire new clients and support partner relationships are also part of the plan. The funds raised will bolster these initiatives, contributing to the ongoing development of the Anglo Scottish brand.

This announcement comes on the heels of a prosperous year for Anglo Scottish, which saw the addition of three new divisions – Renewables, Agriculture, and Ground Transport – complementing its already extensive portfolio covering Vehicle Finance, Asset Finance, Commercial Finance, and more.

The company has grown its team to 86 members, with new staff stationed across Scotland, Merseyside, Yorkshire, London, and Devon. Additionally, the network of tied agents has expanded to 68. In the financial year 2022/23, Anglo Scottish successfully brokered over 12,900 deals, achieving a significant milestone with over £519 million in brokered business. During the MBO process, investment opportunities were offered to all employees and agents, allowing everyone to share in the company's success.

Managing Director David Foster shared his enthusiasm about this new chapter, calling the MBO a "landmark moment" for Anglo Scottish and its leadership team. He stated:

“With this continuing growth, we see a huge opportunity to develop a new way of doing business, offering a broker/funder hybrid service to our customers and bringing us closer to our industry partners. While the MBO gives us the financial strength to broaden our market and offering, we will maintain the identity and independent approach that our existing customers and partners have come to expect."

Foster further added: “We look forward to a promising future, anticipating continued growth and success for our management team, employees, and the businesses and individuals we serve."