Alton Cars undergoes change at the top

Alton Cars has announced the retirement of Group Managing Director Julian Milner, marking the end of an era for one of the UK’s leading independent bodyshop groups.

The announcement coincides with a significant investment in the business by Sun European Partners, a move that enables Julian to step back from the company after more than 25 years of dedicated service.

Julian joined Alton Cars in 1998 as Financial Controller and quickly progressed to Finance Director before taking on the role of Managing Director. In 2022, alongside Joint Managing Director Neilson Jones, he successfully led a management buyout of the business, acquiring it from its original founder. His leadership has been central to Alton’s evolution and sustained growth across its 16 BSI Kitemark-accredited sites nationwide.

Reflecting on the transition, Neilson Jones commented: “Julian has been an integral part of the business for so many years and will be sadly missed by all of the team here at Alton. That said, the whole Alton family really do wish him the very best, and we all hope he enjoys his early retirement.”

The business, headquartered in Leeds, has grown to become a major player in the vehicle repair sector, working with leading insurers, accident management companies and manufacturers to deliver bodywork, paint, calibration and technical services.

The recent investment from Sun European Partners marks a pivotal moment for Alton Cars as it enters its next chapter of growth. Sun European, a private investment advisory firm with a strong track record in the services sector, brings deep operational and investment experience to support Alton’s ambitions.

Alexander Wyndham, Managing Director at Sun European Partners, praised the business’s achievements: “Alton have a great business, with an experienced management team in place who have shown the ability to grow the business over a number of years whilst delivering exceptional customer service. We are excited to now be on this journey with them.”

Neilson Jones added, “We are delighted to welcome Sun European as our new partner and look forward to working together to continue our growth strategy. Sun’s experience in the services sector makes them the ideal investor to support our future plans”.