Activate Group has announced the acquisition of UK-based collision repair specialist Avant Group, marking a significant step in its ongoing strategy to enhance accident management and repair capabilities within the insurance and fleet sectors.
The acquisition encompasses Avant Group’s three principal business divisions—Avant Consult, Avant Repair Network, and Bodynet. Both Activate and Avant operate extensively in the motor claims and repair management space, collectively handling hundreds of thousands of claims each year.
According to Activate Group, the deal will enhance its footprint in both repair and digital service offerings. Notably, the integration of Bodynet’s bodyshop management system and its AutoPad platform is expected to boost the group’s operational efficiency and digital capabilities. The acquisition is supported by additional investment from private equity backer Elysian Capital, which initially invested in Activate Group in 2024 and increased its stake earlier this year.
Activate Group currently delivers claims management services through its sopp+sopp and Motor Repair Network brands, operates 13 repair centres under the Activate Accident Repair name, and supplies automotive parts via Activate Parts. The addition of Avant brings manufacturer-approved paint and body programme capabilities, further strengthening the group’s service portfolio.
The newly acquired Bodynet and AutoPad platforms will also play a key role in supporting Onyx Repair Innovations, a sister company launched by Activate Group in 2024 to develop advanced repair management solutions.
Leadership Continuity and Expansion
Avant Group’s leadership team will remain in place as part of the integration. Mark Johnstone has been appointed managing director of Avant Group and joins Activate’s executive team. Chris Ryder will continue to lead the Avant Repair Network, while Neil Blackman takes on the role of account director within the automotive division.
This latest acquisition follows Activate Group’s purchase last year of two Motorcare repair centres in Tunbridge Wells and Bristol. These sites have since been rebranded under the Activate Accident Repair banner and upgraded to meet group-wide operational standards.
