The Competition Commission has given its approval for the purchase of Bidvest Car Rental by the Thesele Consortium, according to a media release sent out by the company on July 6.

The Thesele Consortium is a joint venture between the Thesele Group, Hallmark Motor Group and Mortimer Motors. The release says the consortium has a proven track record on previous ventures together and brings 50 years of motor industry experience to the table. Thesele has bought the entire portfolio of BCR, including car rental, chauffeur-drive services, door-to-door transfers, van and truck rental as well as the Snappdrive keyless fleet service (an app that allows renters to locate their car via their phone’s GPS, then unlock and start their rental car).

The company is to be rebranded over the coming three months. “The rebranded BCR…will focus on a more streamlined and helpful servicer as the brand evolves into a mobility solution business,” said the communication.

Paulette McGhee remains at the helm, as CEO of the new company. She said services would continue to run with no disruption to customers. “Now that the baton has been passed into safe hands, our immediate focus is to ensure a seamless transition for our customers, while planning for the exciting new way forward,” she said.

It is estimated that the car-rental industry contracted by 50% in 2020, and trading conditions are likely to remain difficult over the coming 12 months.  According to BCR, its focus over the short and medium term will be weighted toward meeting the demands of the local market.