Morecambe tyre shop earmarked for sale as owners expect to close 103 other branches
Jobs are at risk as ATS Euromaster announces major site closures and changes.
ATS Euromaster has announced proposals to begin a ‘structured wind-down’ of its operations in the UK, following the closure of 86 of its least profitable centres, placing more than 700 jobs and 103 sites at risk - including three in Lancashire.
The car and van fast-fit business, which offers MOT services and new tyres, is proposing to sell 35 of its 152 locations to Formula One Autocentres, and 14 to S&M Tyres, which trades as Elite Garages.
ATS Euromaster said that the sales aim to ‘preserve as many jobs as possible’, with 216 employees across the 49 sites are expected to transfer to the new owners under TUPE regulations.
The remaining 103 sites are expected to close, with 703 employees facing redundancy, and three Lancashire locations at risk.
Three sites in Lancashire are earmarked for sale to Formula One, including the Morecambe garage on Northgate, White Lund.
*Blackpool - Units 1 & 2, Preston New Road, Blackpool, FY4 4RE - Proposed transfer to Formula One Autocentres on April 30, 2026.
*Morecambe - Northgate, White Lund Industrial Estate, Morecambe, LA3 3PA - Proposed transfer to Formula One Autocentres on April 30, 2026.
*Preston - 296-298 Aqueduct Street, Ashton, Preston, PR1 7JP - Proposed transfer to Formula One Autocentres on April 30, 2026.
In a statement last week, Nick Harley, Group Managing Director of Euromaster UK, said: “Today’s announcement marks an extremely sad and difficult moment for everyone in the company. We recognise the impact this will have on our colleagues, their families, and the communities ATS Euromaster serves, and it is not a decision we have taken lightly.
“Despite the team’s massive efforts to reshape the business, improve financial performance, and secure a sustainable future, a combination of intense market competition, sluggish activity within the sector and rising costs have left us with no viable path forward to a break-even position.
“Our number one priority now is to treat every employee fairly and respectfully, fully appreciating that many have enjoyed long careers with us.
"Colleagues transferring to the new owners will do so with continuity and stability, while those in locations proposed for closure will be supported through collective consultation.”
703 jobs will be placed at risk of redundancy across the Aston-based head office, call centre and remaining 103 sites if the proposals proceed.
ATS Euromaster said a comprehensive package of support for staff will be agreed as part of the collective consultation process.