News Release

ACC Aviation transitions to Employee Ownership Trust, reinforcing its commitment to its people and future growth

ACC Aviation, a UK-headquartered provider of global aircraft leasing, consulting and charter services, has announced its transition to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), supported by ThinCats. This marks a significant milestone in its 20-plus-year journey and reinforces ACC Aviation's commitment to its employees, ensuring long-term stability and aligning future growth with those who contribute to the company's success.

The transition to employee ownership follows a successful partnership under private equity owners YFM Equity Partners (YFM) that has driven significant growth, including supporting an acquisition, opening three international offices around the world and positioning ACC Aviation for continued success. The decision reflects YFM and the company's belief in the power of its people. As a business built on expertise, relationships and service excellence, ACC Aviation recognises the value of employee engagement and long-term commitment in driving its success.

Philip Mathews, CEO of ACC Aviation, explained: “Our business is built on people; our employees and the relationships they cultivate with customers and suppliers. The move to an Employee Ownership Trust ensures that our team is directly invested in the company's success and offers employees a stake in ACC Aviation's future.”

Since YFM's investment in ACC Aviation in 2014, the company has undergone significant expansion. Key milestones include opening new offices in the United States, the Middle East and Asia, as well as strategic acquisitions in order to enhance ACC Aviation's consultancy offering. YFM also supported substantial investment in ACC's corporate infrastructure, including CRM, finance and marketing systems, all of which have strengthened the company's operational capabilities and market position.

Sophie Tainton, portfolio director at YFM Equity Partners, commented: “ACC Aviation's success is a testament to its outstanding management team and its ability to grow while maintaining service excellence. This transition ensures the business remains in the hands of those who know it best; its employees. We are confident ACC Aviation will continue to thrive in its next phase.”

The transaction represents a 5.9 times return for YFM investors and highlights the value created during the investment period while positioning ACC Aviation for continued growth under its new structure.

Unlike many competitors that focus primarily on either aircraft leasing, charter or consultancy, ACC Aviation uniquely combines all three, offering an integrated suite of services. A key differentiator is its emphasis on long-term supplier relationships, leveraging deep industry knowledge and extensive partnerships to deliver tailored aviation solutions to airlines, governments and private entities worldwide.

“Our supplier relationships and deep industry expertise are what set us apart,” adds Mathews. We're not just a service provider, we're a strategic partner for our clients. By ensuring our employees have a stake in the business, we're strengthening that foundation and creating an even more engaged and motivated team.”

ACC Aviation also remains committed to sustainability, working with Positive Planet on a Carbon Reduction Plan to integrate more sustainable practices across its operations. With environmental concerns playing an increasing role in the aviation sector, ACC Aviation continues to explore innovative solutions to reduce its carbon footprint. The company has further sustainability initiatives on the horizon, reinforcing its dedication to responsible business practices.

The transition to employee ownership represents a commitment to ACC Aviation's people.

“This is an incredibly exciting time for ACC Aviation. The EOT structure allows us to retain our culture and ensure continuity while giving employees the opportunity to share in our success. We believe this will help attract top talent, retain our exceptional team and continue to deliver the outstanding service that ACC Aviation is known for,” concludes Mathews.

ACC Aviation is poised for continued innovation and growth, with the next phase of its journey focused on the people who make it all possible.