AUTO1 Group SE has successfully upsized and extended its inventory asset-backed securitisations, enabling the company to finance up to EUR 1.6 billion in used car inventory. This 45% increase in financing capacity provides substantial support for the company's ambitious growth plans across Europe, where it operates as the leading digital automotive platform for buying, selling, and financing used cars. The transaction represents a significant expansion of AUTO1 Group's banking relationships, with the bank group growing from six to thirteen leading financial institutions.
This expanded partnership network strengthens the company's position for future inventory financing needs while providing improved economic conditions, including reduced interest margins. The revolving period of the financing has been extended to November 2027, offering long-term stability for the company's operations. Philip Reicherstorfer, VP Treasury, IR & Captive Finance of AUTO1 Group, stated that the upsized inventory financing positions the company strongly for anticipated business growth in 2026. The financing structure comprises up to EUR 1.3 billion of senior notes from the enlarged bank group, augmented by up to EUR 0.3 billion of junior notes by AUTO1 Group itself.
Credit Agricole CIB acted as lead arranger for the main inventory backed facility, while BNP Paribas served as lead arranger for the Italian facility. Legal advisory services were provided by Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer for AUTO1 Group and Hogan Lovells for the lenders. The company operates across more than 30 European countries through its three main brands: wirkaufendeinauto.de, Autohero, and AUTO1.com, which serves as Europe's largest wholesale trading platform for car dealers.
This financing expansion comes as AUTO1 Group continues to leverage technology and data to maximize value for consumers and partner dealers across Europe. The increased capacity will enable the company to maintain and expand its inventory selection while supporting its dealer network and retail customers. The transaction demonstrates growing confidence from financial institutions in AUTO1 Group's business model and growth trajectory within the European automotive market. The expansion of banking relationships from six to thirteen institutions represents a significant vote of confidence in the company's operations and future prospects.
The extended financing period through 2027 provides AUTO1 Group with predictable access to capital during a period of planned expansion across European markets. This financial flexibility is particularly important as the company seeks to strengthen its position in the competitive used car market, where inventory management and financing capabilities directly impact customer experience and dealer relationships. The improved economic terms, including reduced interest margins, will contribute to the company's financial efficiency as it scales operations.
