The Collecting Group Named One Of UK's Fastest-Growing Founder-Led Companies

Global online auction company The Collecting Group has been revealed as one of the UK’s top 50 fastest-growing founder-led companies within the FEBE (For Entrepreneurs, By Entrepreneurs) Growth 100 2024.

The Growth 100 is an annual list tracking the top tier of private businesses in the UK where the founder is still involved in day-to-day operations.

Of the circa 4.2 million private companies in the UK, only around 1% (45,000) are considered ‘high growth’ – and FEBE showcases the top 100. The Collecting Group was ranked 49th in the annual listing, with a 2-year sales CAGR of 67.09%.

Starting with just three people, The Collecting Group now comprises two platforms (Collecting Cars and Watch Collecting), which collectively have a dedicated team of more than 100 enthusiasts across four continents. It has established a position as hosting the most exciting curated online platforms globally for collectible cars, bikes, and watches – transforming the way that enthusiasts buy and sell.

Founded by Edward Lovett in 2018, Collecting Cars disrupted a 60-year-old business model by moving the collector car auction experience entirely online, and offering a free-to-list and free-to-sell service. The platform now has more than 200,000 registered members, has sold more than 16,000 lots, and has generated more than £600 million for its sellers.

Launched in 2021 with the same principles of ‘lean’ auctions that are fast to list and sell, the Watch Collecting platform brought new energy to this enthusiast market. With fees and commissions in the watch industry often significantly higher than for cars, it delivers even better comparative value for buyers and sellers alike. To date, it has found new homes for more than 4,000 watches, generating in excess of £70 million in sales.

Recently, The Collecting Group has rolled out redesigned home pages and listings hubs, as well as popular ‘Boosted’ packages for auctions. Its new curated ‘Categories’ make it even easier to find what you’re looking for, or to discover something new. These great new features are part of a major phase of improvements to both platforms, and more changes will be rolled out during 2024.

Collecting Cars and Watch Collecting have always been more than just buying and selling platforms. The Collecting Group now hosts more than 60 events per year, including huge gatherings like those at Bicester Heritage, and its Coffee Runs have become must-attend meets all around the world.

Edward Lovett said: “We want to thank all of the sellers, buyers, and bidders who continue to help our platform to grow and improve. While the business is driven by a talented and hard-working team, we are trusted by a huge community of enthusiasts to deliver great results.”

John Maffioli, FEBE co-founder, said: “This list reveals the fastest companies in the UK where the founders are still involved. The FEBE Growth 100 is where you’ll find some of the country’s most talented entrepreneurs, most exciting companies and incredible teams.”

If you have a cherished car, bike, or watch that needs a new home, then contact one of our Consignment Specialists today to find out how to achieve a great result at auction.