Vella Group Expands South-West Presence with Acquisition of UK Carbody in Bristol
Talia Foxler | 07 April 2026
The Vella Group is pleased to announce the acquisition of UK Carbody in Bristol, to expand its footprint into the South-West of England.
UK Carbody is a highly regarded, award winning repairer with a strong reputation for quality, sustainability and customer service. The business has been recognised as a Platinum Winner in the NBRA Greener Bodyshop Awards for four consecutive years, reflecting its commitment to environmental best practice and operational excellence.
Having relocated to a purpose-built 12,000 sq ft in Avonmouth in 2021, co-owners Devin Cavanagh and Tony Groves, and the team at UK Carbody have established the business as one of the premier independent repairers in the Bristol area, with a focus on delivering consistently high standards of repair and customer experience.
The addition of UK Carbody in Bristol enhances the Group’s geographic footprint to 19 locations across England and Wales, and strengthens its ability to support insurer, network management and fleet partners across the South-West.
This also reflects the Vella Group’s considered approach to growth; building a sustainable, high quality, future ready MSO, grounded in strong values.
Marc Holding, Chief Executive Officer of the Vella Group, said:
“We’re delighted to welcome UK Carbody into the Vella Group. Devin, Tony and the team have built an outstanding business with a strong reputation. What stood out to us is the culture they’ve created, with a real focus on people, sustainability and doing the right thing for customers, which fits perfectly with our own values.
“I’d like to personally thank Devin for the trust he’s shown in us to look after the business going forward. 2026 is really shaping up to be an exciting year for the Vella Group.”
Devin Cavanagh, Director of of UK Carbody, said:
“I’m really pleased to be passing the business on to Marc and the team at Vella’s. They are a great cultural fit, with a genuine focus on people and customers. I’m confident the team and the business are in very good hands”.

