Activate Group, a leading UK provider of accident management services, has acquired Avant Group, the well-established collision repair specialist known for its manufacturer programme expertise, bodyshop management technology, and award-winning repair network.
As part of the deal Activate Group has acquired Avant Group’s three key brands: Avant Consult, Avant Repair Network and Bodynet.
The move brings together two highly complementary businesses with shared strengths in the insurance, fleet and repair sectors – with a combined track record of managing hundreds of thousands of motor claims each year.
Activate Group provides claims management services to fleets and insurers through its sopp+sopp and Motor Repair Network businesses. It operates a UK-wide network of approved repairers which includes thirteen owned Activate Accident Repair centres, and has a specialist automotive parts division, Activate Parts.
The deal supports the growth plans of both businesses, delivering significant scale across claims and repair management. Activate Group also welcomes the addition of Avant’s manufacturer paint and body programmes to its existing service offering.
The acquisition of Bodynet, Avant’s established bodyshop management system, further strengthens the strategic alignment between the two businesses. It will enhance the market offering of Onyx Repair Innovations Ltd – Activate Group’s sister company, launched in 2024 to deliver the Onyx-BMS platform – by adding the Bodynet BMS and AutoPad products to its portfolio. This move supports Onyx’s ambition to drive innovation in repair management and deliver best-in-class solutions across the sector.
Avant Group’s leadership team will remain in place, continuing in their current roles to ensure seamless continuation of service. Mark Johnstone will head up the business, joining the Activate Group Executive Team as Managing Director of Avant Group. Avant Repair Network will continue to be led by Chris Ryder and his senior team, and Neil Blackman will remain as Account Director of the group’s Automotive division.
Both businesses will benefit from shared expertise and wider operational support, unlocking new growth opportunities.
The deal is supported by a further investment from Elysian Capital, building on its initial backing of Activate Group in 2024.
Hannah Wilcox, Activate Group CEO said:
“This marks a significant milestone for Activate Group. Avant Group’s specialist expertise enhances our existing proposition and supports our ambition to deliver the UK’s most advanced, end-to-end accident and repair solutions. Together, we’re giving insurers, fleets and partners even more reasons to choose our services.
“Mark and the Avant team have built a strong business with a great reputation. I’m looking forward to working with them, continuing to deliver the same high-quality service they are known for, and bringing investment and digital infrastructure to ensure continued innovation for customers and partners.”
Mark Johnstone added:
“Joining Activate Group is the next natural step in our growth. We’re proud of the service and culture we’ve built, and the strong relationships we have with our clients and repair partners. Becoming part of Activate Group gives us the opportunity to grow faster, expand our reach and bring even more value to our clients, partners and people, and we’re excited about what we can now achieve together.”
With a combined footprint across the insurance, fleet and repair sectors, Activate Group and Avant Group are now positioned as a major force in the UK’s accident management industry – combining scale, technology and customer-focus to drive innovation, efficiency, and value.