The Vella Group, a leading vehicle accident repair venture, has expanded into Wales for the first time by acquiring family-owned RGM Vehicle Body Repairs. The deal, advised by FRP Corporate Finance's Cardiff office, covers the entire business including repair centres in Swansea and Haverfordwest. Financial terms have not been disclosed, but the acquisition has been backed by private equity firms Ama Capital and Keyhaven.
Long-Established Family Business Changes Hands
RGM Vehicle Body Repairs, serving motorists across South Wales for more than 50 years, was originally founded by Robert Morgan. The business is currently led by Paul Morgan, who will remain on a consultancy basis to ensure a smooth transition for its 40 employees, customers and partners. Over five decades, RGM built a reputation for quality workmanship, investing in its people and putting customers first.
Key deal advisers included Broadfield (legal) and Crowe (due diligence). This marks the fifth transaction on which FRP Corporate Finance has advised the Vella Group, further demonstrating the buyer's strategic growth ambitions.
Leadership Comment on the Acquisition
Marc Holding, chief executive officer at the Vella Group, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Paul and everyone at RGM to the Vella Group. They’ve built a fantastic reputation over many years through hard work, integrity and consistently delivering for their customers. Businesses like RGM don’t earn that reputation overnight, and we’re committed to preserving everything that has made the business so successful while supporting its next chapter.”
Paul Morgan, director at RGM Vehicle Body Repairs, added: “After 53 years in operation, finding the right home for the business was one of the most important decisions we’ve had to make. We wanted to work with a business that would value what we’ve built, look after our team and continue delivering the high standards our customers expect. From the outset, it was clear that the Vella Group shared those values, and I’m looking forward to supporting the business through the transition and seeing it go from strength to strength.”
Advisory Team Reaction
Alexander Griffiths, manager at FRP Corporate Finance, commented: “It has been a privilege to support the Vella Group as it has continued to grow and strengthen its position as one of the UK’s leading accident repair groups. This acquisition further demonstrates Vella’s commitment to strategic growth, expanding its geographic footprint and reinforcing its strong position in the market. RGM has become a well-established specialist provider over five decades, focusing on quality workmanship, investing in its people and always putting customers first. Those values closely align with the Vella Group’s own approach to building a sustainable, values-led business.”
The Vella Group, previously focused on other UK regions, now gains a foothold in the Welsh market. The acquisition is expected to preserve RGM's local identity while providing access to broader resources and expertise. With 40 colleagues retained, the transition aims to ensure continuity for existing customers and partners.
