The High Court finds unfair prejudice in removal of founder from Big Motoring World by private equity investor

Peter Waddell and another v Bluebell Cars Holding and others [2026] EWHC 2028 (Ch)

The High Court has given judgment in Peter Waddell and another v Bluebell Cars Holding and others – one of The Lawyer’s Top 20 Cases of 2026.

A dispute arose between Big Motoring World founder Peter Waddell and private equity investor Freshstream following Mr Waddell’s removal from management after Freshstream acquired a minority stake in the business.

The case concerned whether Mr Waddell’s removal was properly carried out under the investment agreement, in light of both the company’s performance and an investigation into Waddell’s conduct. Mr Waddell alleged that his removal was unlawful and brought through his company (PWHL)  an unfair prejudice petition against Freshstream, Big Motoring World and two directors who had been appointed by Freshstream. A link to the full judgment can be found here.

Alan Gourgey KC, Anna Littler, Talia Barsam (Devereux Chambers) and Ernest Leung together with Jessica Brooke acted for the successful Petitioner/Claimants and were instructed by Justin Michaelson at Quinn Emanuel and a team including Simon Walsh, Sam Becroft, and Lakshana Radhakrishnan.

Rachael Earle acted for Mr Vaughan led by Graeme McPherson KC (4 New Square) and instructed by Kennedys.