M&P has been a stalwart of the UK’s aftermarket trade for over four decades, with its mail order business playing a massive part through the 1990s and 2000s. Add in its two bricks-and-mortar stores in Wales, and a business-to-business parts distribution arm, and you have an impressive operation – albeit one that’s seen some tough times in recent years.
And now the company’s been taken over by a group of investors, led by Peter Graves, former BSB racer and entrepreneur, joined by accountant Steve Rooms and systems expert Ric Wilson. Graves and his team say that they’ll bring a wealth of experience and passion for motorcycling, and they’re looking to overhaul the firm’s operations, including in the digital sphere. The current team at M&P are set to stay in place, but there are plans for new premises, improved e-commerce functions and a renewed focus on customer service and quality products.
The stores in Cardiff and Swansea are a big part of the purchase: the Cardiff showroom carries Royal Enfield and Ducati franchises, while Swansea covers Harley-Davidson, Kawasaki, Honda, KTM, Husqvarna, and Royal Enfield. The new owners will also take on the On Two Wheels trade supplier, which has been distributing clothing, parts, and accessories directly to dealers for more than 30 years.
Two key senior managers at M&P – founder and MD Mark Collings and director Lynette Ballard – will remain in their roles. Collings said “We’ve had a challenging few years in common with many in the industry. We’ve seen many friends and competitors fall by the wayside. We wanted to make this change to give M&P the best possible opportunity for the future, and by bringing in this expert new team, we can build on what we have and give our loyal employees the best possible prospects for the future.”
“We’re thrilled to join the M&P family,” said Peter Graves, who will be interim CEO, with Steve Rooms as CFO and Ric Wilson looking after systems. “We know how our motorcycling friends have for decades relied on M&P as the most expert and most reliable supplier of bike parts and accessories. We know what a force they have been for the motorcyclists of Wales running these absolutely stunning dealerships. Our goal is to build on the solid foundation already in place, investing in the future while maintaining the legacy and passion that M&P Direct is known for.”
More info: www.mandp.co.uk