The automotive aftermarket industry recently witnessed a significant shift as the long-standing name of Andrew Page, synonymous with quality car parts in the UK, transitioned to LKQ Euro Car Parts. This rebranding marks the end of a 103-year chapter, prompting reflection on the rich history of Andrew Page and its profound impact on the car parts sector. More than just a brand, Andrew Page was built upon the legacy of a real individual and the contributions of countless employees throughout its expansive history. This article delves into the journey of Andrew Page Car Parts, from its humble beginnings in Yorkshire to becoming a nationwide force in automotive distribution.
The Foundation and Early Expansion of Andrew Page Car Parts
The story begins in 1917 when Andrew Page Snr. established a wholesale motor parts distribution business in Yorkshire. However, it was his son, James Page, who propelled the company into a growth phase following World War Two. In 1946, Andrew Page and Co was officially incorporated, and by 1947, it had secured a significant partnership as a Bosch distributor, enhancing its product offerings and market reach. Further expansion became feasible in 1949 with the investment of Mr. K Purcheon into the company. Growth during these early years was measured and strategic, resulting in a network of respected branches across North Yorkshire by the early 1970s, establishing a solid foundation for Andrew Page car parts in the region.
Image alt text: Historical advertisement image from 1917 showcasing the origins of Andrew Page car parts business in Leeds, Yorkshire.
Andrew Page Jr. and the Era of Measured Growth
In 1974, James Page’s son, Andrew Page Jr., joined the family business, continuing the lineage and injecting fresh impetus. He subsequently bought out Mr. Purcheon, and the company was rebranded as Andrew Page Ltd. This period marked an era of controlled expansion. By 1996, Andrew Page Ltd. had inaugurated its 15th branch in Keighley, demonstrating a steady and sustainable growth trajectory. This expansion was characterized by a deep understanding of the market and a commitment to serving the automotive repair sector with reliable car parts and services.
The Parts Alliance and Strategic Industry Alliances
The late 1990s saw Andrew Page playing a pivotal role in shaping the automotive aftermarket landscape by establishing the Parts Alliance buying group. This strategic move brought together major independent parts distributors like CAF, Allparts, and CAS. Amidst a climate of supplier consolidation by large groups such as Finelist, the Parts Alliance was conceived to empower independent factors with enhanced purchasing power and competitiveness. Although not the first buying group in the industry, the Parts Alliance distinguished itself through its membership of leading independent chains, wielding considerable market influence. Andrew Page’s relationship with the Parts Alliance was dynamic, marked by periods of both collaboration and separation, reflecting the evolving dynamics of the automotive parts market.
Expansion into Garage Equipment and Diagnostic Tools
Diversification became a key strategy for Andrew Page as the company expanded its offerings beyond just car parts. The launch of the AP Tech division signified a move into selling garage and diagnostic equipment, catering to the broader needs of automotive repair garages. Network expansion continued at an accelerated pace, reaching 41 branches by 2008, demonstrating the company’s ambition and growing national footprint in the distribution of car parts and garage solutions.
Private Equity Investment and the Pursuit of Scale
To fuel ambitious expansion plans, Andrew Page, like many other players in the automotive aftermarket, attracted private equity investment. In 2010, Phoenix Equity Partners and Endless invested in Andrew Page, providing the capital necessary for rapid growth. This period coincided with significant shifts in the industry, with rivals also securing private equity or, in the case of Euro Car Parts, being acquired by LKQ Corporation. Following the Phoenix Equity Partners deal, Andrew Page embarked on a strategy focused on achieving scale, mirroring the industry trend of rapid expansion and consolidation.
Acquisitions and the Markham Vale Distribution Centre
The pursuit of scale led Andrew Page to acquire existing chains, notably Camberley Auto Factors, which added 37 branches to its network, and a significant portion of the Unipart Automotive branch network following its collapse. To support this expanded network, a state-of-the-art national distribution center was established in Markham Vale, Derbyshire in 2012, a testament to the company’s logistical ambitions. However, this rapid expansion also raised questions about the sustainability and financial robustness of the business model.
Financial Pressures and Eventual Acquisition by Euro Car Parts
Despite a £40 million refinance package in 2015, financial pressures mounted, and rumors of over-leveraging circulated. Despite continued expansion efforts, including new branch openings and the acquisition of Solid Auto, a Japanese parts specialist, liquidity challenges culminated in the company filing a notice of intent to appoint administrators in April 2016. Subsequently, Euro Car Parts acquired the entire Andrew Page chain in a pre-pack deal, intending to operate it as a separate entity.
CMA Investigation and Integration into LKQ Euro Car Parts
The acquisition by Euro Car Parts triggered a lengthy investigation by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), creating a period of uncertainty for Andrew Page staff. Despite celebrating its centenary in 2017, the celebrations were muted due to the ongoing investigation. Ultimately, the CMA approved the takeover, conditional on the sale of nine Andrew Page branches. However, internal divisions within Euro Car Parts and strategic shifts within parent company LKQ Europe led to a change in direction. The Andrew Page distribution center was closed, the branch network streamlined, and ultimately, the decision was made to rebrand Andrew Page branches as LKQ Euro Car Parts, phasing out the historic name after 103 years.
Legacy of Andrew Page Car Parts
The rebranding to LKQ Euro Car Parts marks the end of an era for the Andrew Page name in the automotive aftermarket. However, the legacy of Andrew Page car parts endures. From its Yorkshire roots to its nationwide presence, Andrew Page played a crucial role in the development of the UK automotive parts industry. Its history reflects the broader trends of growth, consolidation, and adaptation within the sector. While the name may have changed, the impact and heritage of Andrew Page car parts remain an integral part of the automotive aftermarket narrative.
