Tyre garage chain ATS Euromaster is winding down UK operations with plans to close or sell 86 branches, leaving 703 jobs at risk of redundancy.
A garage specialising in tyres is starting to wind down its UK operations following an extended period of cost cutting. ATS Euromaster announced 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 purchasers that expressed interest in acquiring parts of the network.
Its strategy is to sell 35 of its 152 locations to Formula One Autocentres, and 14 locations 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 locations.
Nick Harley, group managing director, described it as a “sad and difficult moment”. He said competition and escalating costs have left the company 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, whilst those in locations proposed for closure will be supported through collective consultation.”
The locations earmarked for closure will continue operating throughout the consultation period, which is anticipated to conclude in April this year. Should the plans proceed, the final trading day would be May 1.
ATS Euromaster stated a support package will be arranged for employees, including a 24-hour assistance programme and specialist outplacement support.
In a separate proposal, it recommended transferring 13 mobile night technicians to Tructyre – another Euromaster Group company that focuses on mobile tyres for lorries and other commercial vehicles.
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