Cazoo, the used car company founded by Alex Chesterman, is facing the possibility of administration as it struggles to secure emergency funding to address its significant losses.
The company has applied for protection from its creditors, and is seeking ten days of protection from creditor claims while it explores options to avoid insolvency, including administration or liquidation of the company.
Founded in 2018 by Chesterman, known for his previous successes with Zoopla and LoveFilm, Cazoo quickly gained market traction, expanding across Europe and listing on the New York Stock Exchange in 2021 at a valuation of $7 billion. However, despite its rapid growth and significant marketing investments, the company has recorded significant losses in recent years, totaling £531.5 million in 2021 and £525.5 million in 2022.
Efforts to cut costs through job cuts and withdrawal from operations in some countries were not enough to offset the losses. Chesterman himself saw his stake in Cazoo reduced significantly after a debt-for-equity swap on $630 million worth of bonds, which transferred majority control to Viking Global Investors.
In an attempt to focus on profitability, Cazoo announced a change in its business model, moving from selling used cars to becoming an advertising marketplace similar to Auto Trader. This strategic shift also coincided with the announcement of the resignation of CEO Paul Whitehead after only one year in the position.
Despite its recognized brand and online presence, Cazoo shares have fallen more than 90% in the past year, reflecting investor concerns about its financial sustainability. The company's future now hangs in the balance as it navigates its options to meet growing challenges and reshape its business strategy.
