Midlands law firm Harvey Ingram is helping three brothers from Leicester to build a regional network of service stations.
The law firm's corporate finance and transactions team, headed by partner John Stobart, has been acting for HKS Motors of Belgrave Gate, Leicester, and recently helped the company acquire the established JB Jackson Group to add three more filling stations to those already owned by the company.
The Harvey Ingram team has handled all the earlier transactions for HKS which is looking to extend its regional operations.
HKS Motors, which is now a leading operator in the sector, was established and is still owned by Hasmukh, Kamlesh and Sailesh Thakrar, whose initials make up the HKS name.
It has built up a strong reputation over the years based on its quality of service and now owns and operates a rapidly growing number of sites, with a particularly strong presence in the Midlands.
HKS puts an emphasis on identifying and developing sites that provide opportunities for a range of services that complement the fuel retailing business. A growing number include mini-supermarket stores made possible through its strong association with Palmer & Harvey Mace, a nationwide wholesaler for the independent and multiple retail trade.
HKS already operates professional vehicle repairs and MOT testing facilities at a number of sites. The most recent acquisition takes it into the car, van and minibus rental business as well.
Earlier this year HKS bought the airport filling station at East Midlands Airport. The most recent acquisitions of three new filling stations situated at London Road, Coalville, Ashby Road, Ibstock, and Talbot Street in Whitwick indicate that the company will continue with its business development plans in the future.
Harvey Ingram LLP has acted for HKS since 1972 and continues to work with the company on its acquisition strategy.
Rosie Prabhakar, a solicitor in the corporate finance and transactions team, said: "We are delighted that HKS has built up such a strong reputation in the retail sector, and that we have been able to help with its continued growth."
Finance for the transaction was provided by Alliance & Leicester Commercial Bank with Nick Pulley of A&L taking the lead in structuring the finance.
