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July 14, 2023
HomeIrish NewsLKQ acquires CV parts distributor Digraph

LKQ acquires CV parts distributor Digraph

By  Irish News, News  0 Comments

LKQ Corporation has completed the acquisition of Digraph, one of the UK’s leading independent aftermarket commercial parts distributors specialising in HGV, coach and bus parts.

The deal sees Digraph join an expanded group of LKQ companies in the UK and Ireland alongside LKQ Euro Car Parts, LKQ Bodyshop and Arleigh Group.

LKQ made an initial investment in Digraph in 2017 and it has since provided strategic guidance and support as well working in partnership on procurement.

Digraph was founded in 1976 in Derbyshire and now operates 21 branches across the UK, making 300,000 deliveries annually to more than 4,000 customers.

Following the transaction, Digraph will be integrated into the enlarged LKQ UK & Ireland group, providing it with “significantly enhanced buying power and the support of its combined financial strength”, with new investments planned in its “people and systems”, according to a Digraph press release.

The company said it will continue to operate as a separate legal entity under the Digraph brand, and there will be no changes to its branch network.

James Rawson, Digraph’s CEO, has announced his intention to stand-down from the business on completion of the deal.

Andy Southby, currently managing director of the LKQ Bodyshop division in the UK and Ireland will assume responsibility of managing director of Digraph alongside his LKQ Bodyshop responsibilities.

“This deal marks the culmination of a five-year strategic partnership with Digraph, which will ensure a smooth transition into the LKQ UK & Ireland family,” said Andy Hamilton, CEO, LKQ UK and Ireland Group.

“Digraph’s expertise in heavy commercial vehicles, particularly that of its dedicated team of specialists based across its branch network, and its outstanding parts availability and delivery service gives our enlarged group unparalleled, quality coverage.

“We’re excited about how we can now work together to accelerate Digraph’s potential as we continue to strengthen and deepen LKQ UK & Ireland’s scale and capabilities.”