Cheshire Chauffeuring Service SCS Secures Major Investment for National Growth
Cheshire-based luxury chauffeur service SCS has announced a significant seven-figure investment from two prominent North West firms, Arete Capital Partners and River Capital. This substantial financial backing will fuel the company's ambitious plans for national expansion, including potential acquisitions and technological advancements.
From Humble Beginnings to Luxury Fleet
Founded in 2018 by entrepreneur Garry Jones with just a single vehicle, SCS has experienced remarkable growth. Today, the company boasts a fleet of luxury vehicles, employs 125 full-time chauffeurs, and maintains a 25-strong head office team. The firm's success is built on a foundation of reliability, exceptional service standards, and discretion, which has attracted a diverse clientele.
Key aspects of SCS's business model include:
- Approximately 80% of revenue derived from long-term B2B contracts for business-class passenger chauffeur services.
- Collaborations with airlines, restaurant groups, and sporting organisations.
- A steadfast commitment to maximising service quality and client satisfaction.
Strategic Investment for Future Expansion
The investment from Arete Capital Partners and River Capital represents a pivotal moment for SCS. Founder Garry Jones outlined the company's strategic objectives, emphasising that the funds will be utilised to:
- Scale the existing fleet of luxury vehicles.
- Secure new corporate contracts and expand the client base.
- Invest in advanced technology to enhance operational efficiency.
- Pursue a targeted buy-and-build strategy to facilitate national growth through acquisitions.
Jones expressed his pride in the team's achievements, stating, "This investment marks a pivotal moment for SCS. It enables us to scale our fleet, secure new contracts and build on the service standards our clients trust us for. From a single vehicle to where we are today, I'm incredibly proud of the team and excited to take SCS to the next stage with the support of Arete and River Capital."
Investor Confidence in a Growing Market
Jamie Newall, Investment Director at Arete Capital Partners, highlighted the unique qualities that set SCS apart in the competitive luxury travel segment. He noted, "SCS is a fantastic North West business... the quality of service, consistency of product and attention to detail SCS offers is both unique and a clear differentiator amongst its competitors in a growing luxury travel segment." Newall added that the investors are eager to support SCS's expansion through their shared expertise and networks.
Mark Borzomato, CEO at River Capital, praised SCS's reputation, describing it as "a genuine regional success story." He emphasised that the investment will enable the company to build further capacity, enhance its systems, and create more high-quality jobs across the region, reinforcing its position as an industry benchmark.
Advisory Support for the Deal
The investment transaction was supported by a team of professional advisers, including:
- Alex Thow of Hill Dickinson, who provided legal counsel.
- Andrew Nelson and George Daubney of Cowgills, who conducted financial and tax due diligence.
- Patrick Morris of Fairhurst, who handled tax planning aspects.
This comprehensive advisory support underscores the significance of the deal and the confidence in SCS's future prospects within the luxury chauffeur service market.
