AA DriveTech buys Peak Performance

AA DriveTech, the post-test driver training arm of the AA, has acquired Chesterfield-based driver training specialists Peak Performance for an undisclosed sum.

The company will continue to trade as a separate legal entity and trading operation within the AA business and the Peak Performance management team will remain unchanged.

James Sutherland, Peak Performance's owner and CEO, will continue work with the business and oversee the continued development of the brand in the marketplace.

AA DriveTech's MD Jim Kirkwood said: "This acquisition is part of our strategy to position AA DriveTech as the UK's clear leader in driver education and road safety services.

“Alongside our purchase of Intelligent Data Systems in 2011 and our ever closer links with the AA Driving School, we can deliver services through a lifetime of driving, from teaching learners to drive, assessing drivers at time of interview and recruitment while driving for work, plus various education schemes for drivers who commit a road traffic offence. We believe we are unique in offering this integrated approach.

"With Peak Performance joining the family, we will not only strengthen our position within the UK fleet driver training and risk management market, but will also have a more visible presence within the northern half of the country. The customer service philosophies of AA DriveTech and Peak Performance are well matched so this will translate into unrivalled client support."

Sutherland added: "Peak Performance and the AA have been at the forefront of driver safety education for many years. 

“Becoming part of the AA family of companies will deliver real benefits to both the business and our customers alike. 

“We will have access to additional resources and investment which will underpin our growth strategy, assist with product development and allow us to expand our services into new markets.

"However, I am keen to stress that it will be very much ‘business as usual' going forward and our customers will continue to be supported by the committed and experienced personnel they are familiar with."