Formula One Autocentres accelerates growth with acquisition of 35 ATS Euromaster sites

Formula One Autocentres has significantly expanded its UK footprint following the acquisition of 35 former ATS Euromaster sites, in a deal that reshapes part of the fast-fit and MOT testing landscape.

The move comes as ATS Euromaster begins a structured wind-down of its UK operations after struggling with sustained financial losses, rising costs and an increasingly competitive, over-capacity market.

Under the agreement, the 35 sites, located across England and Wales, transfer into the Formula One Autocentres network, boosting its total number of centres to around 170 nationwide. This rapid expansion strengthens the company’s position as one of the UK’s largest independent autocentre chains and increases its coverage in key regions, particularly Wales.

Crucially for the sector, the deal has safeguarded more than 130 jobs, with employees transferring under TUPE regulations and joining the growing Formula One business. The company has also opened recruitment opportunities for additional ATS staff affected by the wider closure programme.

For the MOT and service market, the acquisition represents both continuity and change. Existing customers will see sites remain operational, often with the same staff, while benefiting from Formula One’s investment plans, which include rebranding, refurbishment programmes and upgraded IT systems over the coming months.

The wider context highlights ongoing consolidation across the aftermarket sector. Alongside this deal, a further 14 ATS Euromaster locations are being acquired by Elite Garages, meaning 49 sites in total are being transferred to new ownership.

For MOT testers and independent garages, the development underlines a shifting competitive landscape. As national chains consolidate and expand, investment in technology, customer experience and service offering will remain key differentiators in an increasingly competitive market.