Car storage chain ATS Euromaster to shut 86 branches in UK as 700 jobs in danger
ATS Euromaster has announced it will stop doing business in the UK after making plans to close 86 of its least profitable service centres in 2025, putting 703 jobs at risk
A car garage chain has announced the closure of several branches (file)(Image: Getty)
A garage specialising in tyres is starting to wind down its UK operations following an extended period of cost cutting. ATS Euromaster revealed it would cease trading in Britain after making plans to shut 86 of its least profitable service centres in 2025.
To safeguard as many jobs as possible, the company said it’s pursuing two potential buyers that expressed interest in acquiring parts of the network.
Its strategy is to offload 35 of its 152 sites to Formula One Autocentres, and 14 sites to S&M Tyres, which operates as Elite Garages. ATS Euromaster said these sales would render the remaining network too small and unable to cover sufficient areas of the UK to compete effectively and remain economically viable.
They would also still leave 703 jobs at risk of redundancy across its head office in Aston, call centre, and remaining 103 sites.
Nick Harley, group managing director, described it as a “sad and difficult moment”. He said competition and escalating costs have left the firm with “no viable path forward” to break even, reports the Express.
He added: “Our number one priority now is to treat every employee fairly and respectfully, fully appreciating that many have enjoyed long careers with us.
“Colleagues transferring to the new owners will do so with continuity and stability, while those in locations proposed for closure will be supported through collective consultation.”
The branches earmarked for closure will continue operating throughout the consultation period, which is anticipated to conclude in April this year. Should the plans proceed, the last trading day would be May 1.
ATS Euromaster confirmed a support package will be arranged for employees, featuring a 24-hour assistance programme and specialist outplacement help.
In a separate proposal, the company suggested transferring 13 mobile night technicians to Tructyre – another Euromaster Group operation that focuses on mobile tyre services for lorries and other commercial vehicles.
The planned closures only affects ATS Euromaster in the UK, and not other parts of the wider Euromaster Group.
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