Constellation Automotive acquires Aston Barclay and The Car Buying Group

Constellation Automotive Group has acquired Aston Barclay and The Car Buying Group, aiming to stabilise operations and boost volume through its WeBuyAnyCar business following recent site closures.

Ryan Fowler

April 14, 2025

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Constellation Automotive Group has announced the acquisition of Aston Barclay, including its consumer-facing subsidiary, The Car Buying Group, as it expands its footprint across vehicle buying and remarketing operations.

The deal follows a period of difficult market conditions for Aston Barclay, which led to the closure of its Leeds remarketing centre in January 2025. The acquisition by Constellation is intended to secure the long-term viability of the remaining Aston Barclay network, with new investment and increased vehicle volume expected from Constellation’s WeBuyAnyCar business.

The sale was completed on 13th April 2025, with Rutland Partners LLP transferring ownership of ABVR Holdings Limited – the parent company of Aston Barclay – to Constellation Automotive Group. Rutland originally invested in Aston Barclay in 2017, helping the business deliver auction and related services to the UK automotive sector.

Oliver Jones, partner at Rutland, said:
“We are pleased to have secured the sale of Aston Barclay to CAG, and would like to thank the entire team at Aston Barclay for their hard work and commitment to the business. CAG is a strong buyer for the business, and I wish them every success.”

Greg MacLeod, chairman of Aston Barclay Group, added:
“It has been my pleasure to work with the team at Aston Barclay Remarketing and The Car Buying Group over the last five years under the ownership of Rutland Partners. Rutland has been a steadfast and committed owner, driving the group forward through sometimes challenging times.

The acquisition by CAG is a logical next step for the business. Access to the unparalleled size, scale, and expertise of BCA will provide great opportunities for colleagues, and also for vendors, buyers and consumers.”

Constellation Automotive Group owns several major automotive brands, including BCA, Cinch and WeBuyAnyCar.