Van Mossel Automotive Group has hit the acquisition trail, buying dealer groups, Breeze Motor Group and Ocean Automotive for undisclosed sums.
Both companies are based on the South Coast, with locations in Portsmouth, Southampton, Bournemouth, Poole, Wimborne and Yeovil.
This expansion further strengthens Van Mossel’s position in the UK on the mainland. The acquisition includes nine dealership locations, two body repair centres, and one parts distribution warehouse.
This move follows earlier acquisitions in the Channel Islands (Jersey and Guernsey), Isle of Man and Isle of Wight.
Breeze represents Volkswagen Passenger Cars and Commercial Vehicles, Suzuki and Ducati, and is an official distributor of Volkswagen parts through the Trade Parts Specialist network.
Breeze has also built a successful camper and lifestyle van hire business operating under the name ‘Breeze Campers’.
Breeze operates six dealership locations and one parts warehouse. In 2024, the group generated a turnover of €176.25 million and employs more than 250 people.
Ocean represents the Audi and Volvo brands and operates three dealership locations and two body repair centres. In 2024, the group recorded a turnover of €203 million. Ocean Automotive is active in, among others, Yeovil and Poole.
Mark Langford, Managing Director, Breeze Motor Group: “It is with great pleasure that I announce we have reached an agreement with Van Mossel Automotive Group following careful consideration.
“Over the past 25 years, under the unwavering leadership of John Corderoy, Breeze Motor Group has built a strong reputation with a loyal customer base.
“Van Mossel’s investment and expertise will further strengthen our representation and customer offering going forward, and we are excited for this next chapter for Breeze Motor Group.”
Gail Polkinghorne, Managing Director, Ocean Automotive: “We are pleased to announce the completion of the acquisition of Ocean Automotive, following an impressive 25-year journey in Poole and Yeovil.
“The management team would like to express its gratitude for the leadership and dedication shown by David Kelly over the years.
“We are excited to become part of the Van Mossel family. We share many core values and are enthusiastic about seeing our teams grow and thrive and continuing to deliver excellence in all aspects of our service.”
Breeze Motor Group and Ocean Automotive will operate under the umbrella of Van Mossel Automotive International, the international division of Van Mossel Automotive Group, responsible for all activities outside the Benelux region.
Eric Berkhof, CEO of Van Mossel Automotive Group, said: “These simultaneous acquisitions represent a logical next step for us in the UK. Both groups have established a strong regional footprint in Southern England. This acquisition strengthens our position and opens the door to further growth. We look forward to a successful collaboration with both companies and continued expansion in the region.”