MHA advises Athenaeum, the investors in Brayleys Cars, on strategic acquisition of Johnson Cars Ltd
September 4th 2025
MHA’s corporate finance and tax teams have successfully advised Athenaeum International Holdings Ltd on its acquisition of Johnson Cars Ltd, marking a major milestone in Athenaeum’s ongoing strategic expansion within the UK motor retail sector.
This acquisition joins Johnson Cars Ltd and Brayley Cars Ltd together, which Athenaeum previously invested in, forming a powerful new group in the UK automotive retail industry.
The combined group now operates 79 franchise sales points across the country, representing 21 leading automotive brands, and supported by a workforce of nearly 2,000 colleagues.
MHA’s multidisciplinary team, including Rob Dando, Steve Freeman, Nathan Sutcliffe, Alexander Heywood-Lee and Anthony McFarlin, provided comprehensive advisory services, including deal structuring, financial due diligence and tax support, ensuring a smooth and efficient transaction process for Athenaeum.
The transaction was completed as a share purchase, resulting in the acquisition of the entirety of Johnsons Cars Ltd business, including all operational entities, staff and naming rights. The deal also encompasses Johnsons’ TPS Centres, Johnsons Fleet Services, and central support functions
This move supports Athenaeum’s ambition to position its UK operations among the top ten dealer groups in the country. While the combined business will evolve over time, the focus remains on continuity and long-term success for colleagues, customers, and brand partners.
Rob Dando, Corporate Finance Partner and Head of Transaction Services at MHA said:
"It was a pleasure to work with Rob, Jose and Martin and the rest of the team at Athenaeum Partners and Brayleys on their most recent acquisition, I look forward to seeing the business’ trajectory over the coming months."
Johnsons Cars Ltd has become a well-established and highly respected name in the UK motor trade. With a strong presence in the Volkswagen Group portfolio, including Volkswagen, SEAT, CUPRA and Škoda, the acquisition also strengthens the group’s presence with brands such as Mazda, Suzuki, Hyundai, and Honda, further cementing its status as Honda’s largest European dealer group by volume.
