Admiral transitions to EOT
16/02/2026
Admiral Leasing & Loans, the trading name of Oldham-based finance provider Universal Leasing Limited, is delighted to announce the successful sale by the founding shareholders into an Employee Ownership Trust (“EOT”). All 37 colleagues in the Oldham and Witney offices now collectively own the business, giving every team member a meaningful stake in driving growth and delivering an exceptional level of service.
Managing Director Simon Stewart (pictured left of photo, with Carol Bolton (middle) and Simon Etheridge (right)) commented, “In our twentieth year, becoming an Employee Ownership Trust is a significant and positive step for Admiral. It safeguards our culture, protects the values that define us and ensures our specialist team remains central to every decision we make. It’s good for our people, good for our customers and introducers, and good for the long-term future of the business.”
Sales Director Carol Bolton added, “The transition to an EOT … allows us to build even closer relationships with approved vendors and brokers and reinforces our commitment to delivering the reliable service, swift responses and consistency they expect from Admiral.”
Chairman Michael Hughes and Finance Director James Frost (who led the strategic review of long-term ownership options) confirmed that transitioning to an EOT was the right path.
“Rather than pursuing an open-market sale, the EOT preserves the continuity, experience and specialist knowledge within our dedicated teams in Oldham and Witney. It keeps Admiral independent, protects our culture and ensures the business remains in the hands of those who have helped build it over the years.”
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