ATS Euromaster has commenced a significant restructuring programme, which includes closing 86 of its 238 garages across the UK. Among the initial closures are two sites in Lancashire: Blackburn and Colne. The Blackburn branch, located on Pendle Street, is now listed for sale at £700,000.
The property in Blackburn is described as a detached steel-framed industrial unit, configured with seven fitting bays, ancillary storage, a reception, office, staff and customer WCs, and tyre storage above the offices. Externally, it offers 12 marked parking spaces, including two disabled bays.
ATS Euromaster has confirmed that its other Lancashire branches in Accrington, Blackpool, Burnley, Preston, and Leyland will remain operational. Speculation regarding a partnership between ATS Euromaster and Halfords, particularly concerning the Accrington branch, has been denied by Michelin, ATS Euromaster’s owner. Halfords has also confirmed that no such partnership exists.
The closure programme puts over 400 jobs at risk across the company. ATS Euromaster attributes these closures to “overcapacity, increasing costs and sluggish activity and growth” within the UK automotive aftermarket.
A company spokesperson stated that the proposal aims to close “non profitable service centres” and that impacted employees are currently under consultation, with a focus on providing support. The company intends for this decision to enable it to concentrate on “strategic levels for sustainable development,” including mobile services and the development of a franchise model.
Halfords has offered interviews to staff affected by the closures.
Source: The Sun