MinterEllison has advised a syndicate of five investment and retail banks as lenders to Blackstone Private Equity (Blackstone) in its bid to acquire AMA Group Limited’s (ASX: AMA) vehicle panel repair business.

The proposed transaction will involve the demerger of AMA Group’s automotive component, accessory and procurement business, and the subsequent de-listing and purchase of the remaining vehicle panel repair business by Blackstone.

If successful, Blackstone will own the leader in Australia's A$7 billion panel repair industry, with over 100 sites across the country.

Both transactions will be effected by way of Scheme of Arrangement and are subject to approval by AMA Group shareholders.

AMA Group says the demerger, planned for August 2018, will allow it to focus on its core competencies and adopt a capital structure appropriate for its scale, operations and strategic objectives.

Representing a friendly takeover of a listed company by a global private equity firm, the deal is a standout transaction for MinterEllison and was led by John Mosley (Partner).

He was assisted by Matthew Kenny (Senior Associate), Michael Scarf (Senior Associate), Ryan Ruslim (Lawyer), Imogen Bailey (Lawyer), and Rosie Connolly (Graduate).