The specialist automotive team at Birketts has advised long-standing Kent-based client Haynes Bros Ltd on its acquisition of Ernest Doe & Sons’ Ashford branch, continuing its legacy as one of the UK’s most established motor and agricultural vehicle dealers.
Founded in 1790 and relocated to Maidstone, Kent in 1832, Haynes Bros has grown into a trusted name across the Southeast, operating multiple subsidiaries and representing leading automotive and agricultural brands.
Ernest Doe Power Ashford, which has served the local agricultural community for the past five years, has played a key role in supporting farmers across the region. Following a strategic review, its agricultural operations will now be integrated into Haynes Bros’ established CNH dealer network, which already holds the Case IH franchise in Birchington, East Kent. Under this new arrangement, Haynes Bros will continue delivering agricultural services to customers in the Ashford area, while the Ashford branch operated by Ernest Doe will close.
The Birketts team was led by automotive sector lead, Emma Bysouth supported by James Austin and Ieva Grakulskyte (Corporate) and Charlotte Sloan, Jennifer Leeder and Jazmine Stemp (Employment).
James Broadley, Group Managing Director of Haynes Bros Ltd, commented: “This acquisition marks an important step in expanding our agricultural footprint across Kent, and we’re grateful to Birketts for their expert guidance throughout the process. Salim’s longstanding support and deep understanding of our business made the transition seamless, and the wider Birketts team has been pragmatic and thorough. Their advice has helped us integrate the Ashford operations smoothly into our CNH dealer network, ensuring continuity of service for our customers in the region.”
Salim Somjee, Haynes Bros’ longstanding legal adviser and newly appointed Partner in the corporate team at Birketts, added: “It’s been a privilege to support Haynes Bros through this transaction. Its heritage and reputation in the region are second to none, and it’s clear it remains deeply committed to serving the agricultural and motor sectors with excellence. We’re proud to play a part in their continued success and look forward to seeing how this strategic consolidation helps strengthen its long-standing presence across Kent and beyond.”
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