Trailer Auto Group acquired by TIP Group

The TIP Group has acquired the trailer refurbishment company Trailer Auto Group (TAG). The new facility will bring TIP’s UK locations to a network of 30 sites. TIP Group offers a range of commercial vehicle services including rental, leasing, roadside assistance, telematics, maintenance and repair. The acquisition of TAG will bolster the group’s trailer refurbishment capabilities. 

Based in Stoke-on-Trent, TAG was founded in 2022. The site includes 41 workshop bays and employs 105 staff including 85 mechanics. As the company transitions to new ownership, the plan is to retain all employees and keep business running as usual. 

Mike Furnival, managing director UK & Ireland at TIP Group said: “Acquiring TAG will significantly enhance our ability to extend the life of our fleet and expand our offerings to both existing and new customers. The workshop’s central location will facilitate trailer refurbishment, damage repairs, servicing and MOT preparation.”

With rising costs and a focus on sustainable practices, the TIP Group is finding trailer refurbishment has become a good way for fleets to refresh their trailers without needing to invest in new units. TAG’s facilities will mean the TIP Group can offer fleets this service as a more sustainable option to minimise operational costs. 

As well as trailer refurbishment, TAG has a body shop to address accident damage and two ATF lanes. For customers that require immediate assistance, TAG has a fleet of 10 mobile mechanics to offer mobile services and 24 hour breakdown cover. The company runs a parts sales operation with stock available for next day dispatch and delivery. TAG has paint facilities on site to livery vehicles as part of rebranding campaigns or updates to a fleet’s look. 

TAG’s team is certified to work on tail lifts and brake tests are offered. To remove paint, dirt and rust or corrosion, the company has shot blasting equipment to prepare metal before it’s treated, recoated and painted.