Motomec Aberdare secures long-term growth with premises purchase
A long-established Aberdare MOT, service and repair workshop has strengthened its future, retained jobs and created a platform for further growth after buying its trading premises with support from the Development Bank of Wales.
Motomec Aberdare Ltd has used a six-figure loan from the Wales Flexible Investment Fund to purchase the property from former owner Eddie Hawkins, who established the business in 1987. The investment gives the company greater control and supports its long-term growth plans.
The purchase builds on an earlier succession process supported by the Development Bank, which enabled directors Alex Sage and Carl Adams to complete a management buyout in 2022.
Both began their careers at Motomec as apprentices before taking ownership of the business from Eddie. Their management buyout kept a trusted local employer and service provider in Welsh ownership, while giving the business the stability to keep investing. Since then, they have increased turnover and profitability and built strong reserves to support future growth.
Today, Motomec serves a loyal customer base across the Cynon Valley and beyond and provides contracted vehicle maintenance services for organisations including Tesco, BT, Co-op Funeralcare and the RAC. Owning their premises now gives Motomec greater long-term security and a stronger base from which to expand.
Alex Sage, director of Motomec Aberdare Ltd, said: “Buying the premises is a major milestone for us and gives us real confidence in the future of the business. Without the support we received from the Development Bank of Wales, this simply would not have been possible.
“When Eddie was looking to retire, there was a real risk that the business could have disappeared altogether. Instead, we have been able to protect the business, continue supporting local jobs and build on everything achieved over the previous five decades.
“This latest investment helps future-proof Motomec and gives us the platform to keep moving forward. We are incredibly grateful to our customers for their loyalty and continued support because their trust is the reason we are in this position today.”
Jill Allen, portfolio executive with the Development Bank of Wales, said: “Alex and Carl have built on the strong foundations established by Eddie Hawkins and shown a clear commitment to their customers, workforce and local community. Since acquiring the business in 2022, they have delivered continued growth and maintained a strong financial position.
“Purchasing the premises now gives them greater stability, secures an important local asset and provides a solid platform for future expansion. We’re pleased to have supported Alex and Carl again as they continue to invest in the long-term success of Motomec.”
Financed by Welsh government, the £500m Wales Flexible Investment Fund supports Welsh businesses with terms of up to 15 years. Loans, mezzanine finance, and equity investments are available from £25,000 to £10 million.