Automotive repair business gears up for growth with backing from international cricket star
A newly formed automotive repair business has received backing from former Indian cricket captain, Sachin Tendulkar. The ex-international cricketer turned entrepreneur joins XRS International (Xpress Refinishing Solutions), a distributor of sustainable solutions for the global automotive repair market.
XRS International, founded in 2023, specialises in technology to support rapid, more environmentally friendly alloy wheel repairs. Its patented flagship range, DCR Systems, is already in place in car dealerships, vehicle repair and mechanic businesses across UK, Europe and Australia, with XRS International now gearing up for exports into US markets.
As part of the joint venture, XRS International has also agreed to formally acquire DCR Systems Limited, the manufacturer of the system.
DCR Systems encompasses a range of first-of-its-kind technology-enabled alloy wheel repair machinery. Its system covers both refurbishment and refinishing, with its patented diamond-cut process able to repair damaged alloy wheels within the hour, eliminating the need for alloy replacements or off-site repairs – 700,000 wheels have been cut to date.
The business is currently eyeing significant growth in the UK and internationally, with the global automotive repair and maintenance services market projected to reach $1,850 billion by 2033*.
The business is a joint venture between S1 International, a London-based advisory firm that facilitates UK-Indian trade; DCR Holdings, a holding company for a number of vehicle repair solutions; and SRT Sports and Holdings LLP, a holding company for Sachin Tendulkar.
DCR Systems was recently approved for distribution for Ford Rotunda, the tool and equipment arm for Ford Motor Company.
Shil Patel and Sushant Karangutkar, XRS International co-founders, added: “XRS International is all about bringing British-made automotive innovations to the global stage. In a market that’s crying out for sustainable solutions, we’re now poised on the cusp of impressive growth, particularly within the US and Europe. It’s a hugely exciting time for us, especially with Sachin now in the business. Alongside his formidable cricket career, he’s someone with real automotive knowledge and expertise, and this guidance will be fundamental to driving our growth forward in the years to come.”
Having retired in 2013, Tendulkar is widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in cricket’s history. Joining founders Sushant Karangutkar, Shil Patel and Steve Barrett, Tendulkar will now operate as an equal shareholder.
Tendulkar commented on the new venture: “I have always been interested in automobiles, and anything related to the automotive industry excites me. It’s one of the reasons I’m so excited to be onboard with XRSInternational. Having had the opportunity to visit its plant and facilities last year, it’s clear this is a venture with significant growth potential.”
Steve Barrett, XRS International co-founder, commented: “The opportunity for DCR to become part of XRS enables us to combine our respective skills, knowledge and manufacturing capability to identify and launch into new markets. There’s a platform for us to become the global standard of alloy wheel refurbishing, and together with Shil, Sushant and Sachin, we have the foundations in place to make this a reality.”
Leading law firm Hill Dickinson advised XRS International on the joint venture structure, with accountancy and tax support from Blick Rothenburg.
Sandip Khroud, partner and head of Hill Dickinson’s corporate team in Leeds, shared: “It’s been a pleasure to advise on the setting up of XRS International. Between them, the four founders have successful track records in innovation, manufacture and distribution, including trade in India. It’s an excellent platform from which to pool their expertise and develop links to exciting new markets, such as the US.”