TVS Buys British Norton Motorcycles for GBP16 Million!

Sathurshan

April 20, 2020

It’s official, TVS buys Noroton Motorcycles!  It’s no longer a rumour as the Hosur, India-based two-wheeler giant has sent out an official release confirming its acquisition.

Founded by James Lansdowne Norton, in Birmingham, in 1898 Norton Motorcycles is among the most popular British motorcycle brands of all time.  Since the 20^th century, Norton Motorcycles is famed for their classic models and eclectic range of luxury motorcycles. Ranging from authentic retro classic reboots of the famous Commando to their contemporary 200 bhp, 1200cc V4 super-bikes.

The  Acquisition

India’s TVS Motor Company officially announced the successful acquisition of Britain’s most iconic sporting motorcycle, “Norton”. In an all-cash deal for a consideration of GBP16 million by acquiring certain assets of Norton Motorcycles (U.K.) Limited (in administration) through one of TVS Motor’s overseas subsidiaries.  The acquisition was undertaken under the guidance of financial advisors, Rothschild and Co, and legal advice for the transaction was provided by Khaitan & Co, and Slaughter and May.

This is one of the most interesting acquisitions of a motorcycle maker in recent times! The Indian firm already has a collaboration with BMW. The bike to come out of this collaboration is the TVS Apache RR310 and BMW’s  G310 R. Now with TVS acquiring Norton, we can expect to see some interesting bikes coming from both sides in the future! On top of this, we also believe this will reflect TVS Motor Company’s and India’s rapidly rising prominence in the international two-wheeler market!

Commenting on the acquisition, Mr. Sudarshan Venu, Joint Managing Director, TVS Motor Company said;

“This is a momentous time for us at TVS Motor Company. Norton is an iconic British brand celebrated across the world, and presents us with an immense opportunity to scale globally. This transaction is in line with our effort to cater to the aspirations of discerning motorcycle customers. We will extend our full support for Norton to regain its full glory in the international motorcycle landscape.”

Mr. Sudarshan Venu further added, “Norton will continue to retain its distinctive identity with dedicated and specific business plans. TVS Motor will work closely with customers and employees in building the success and pre-eminence of the Norton Motorcycles brand and we look forward to growing together globally in the years to come.”

TVS Motor Company is excited about the existing and upcoming products at Norton Motorcycles including Commando, Dominator and V4 RR. Confident of the strong synergy between both the brands, they believe Norton Motorcycles can leverage TVS Motor Company’s global reach. Also, the supply chain capabilities to expand to new markets.

Source: TVS Motor