Auto Europe

Founded: 1954 (by Alex Cecil) (started in Germany, later based in USA)
Headquarters: Portland, Maine, USA
Type: Private
Categories: International car rental broker; travel wholesaler
Markets: Global (services in 180+ countries; 28,000+ rental locations)
Parent: Owned by private equity (TowerBrook Capital Partners)

Overview: Auto Europe is a long-established car rental facilitator, especially for international travel. Founded in 1954 by Alex Cecil (initially in Germany) as a way to rent cars to American tourists in Europe, it grew into a wholesale broker that negotiates bulk rates with many rental companies. Today Auto Europe offers vehicle rentals in 180+ countries (over 28,000 locations globally) by working with major suppliers like Avis, Hertz, Sixt, Europcar, and many local agencies. The company itself does not own cars; rather, it provides a one-stop booking platform and 24/7 customer service, while rentals are fulfilled by partner agencies. Auto Europe has been privately owned, with investment backing from firms like TowerBrook (US) and others. It has maintained a reputation for quality service (A+ BBB rating) and caters to travelers seeking overseas rentals at competitive rates. In recent decades, it has also added related travel services like hotel bookings and motorhome rentals.

Products and Services:
– International car and van rentals (economy to luxury) in Europe, North America, Australia, Asia, etc.
– Long-term car leases and subscriptions (e.g. multi-week Renault/Peugeot leases in Europe).
– Luxury and exotic car rentals (through VIP partners).
– Motorhome and campervan rentals (in Europe).
– Travel insurance and hotel booking add-ons (website cross-sell).

Geography and Markets: Auto Europe is strongest in Europe but also handles rentals in all other major regions. It is known for serving Americans traveling abroad, as well as local renters in foreign countries needing one-way or multi-country rentals. Locations include airports and city centers in tourist destinations worldwide.

Ownership and Corporate Structure: Auto Europe has been privately held through various ownership changes. It was acquired by private equity (TowerBrook) in the 2000s, and later restructured. Despite ownership shifts, management continuity has kept the service stable. It remains a separate entity (non-public) and does not share branding with the rental companies it books.

Key Dates:
– 1954: Founded by Alex Cecil (Germany); rented locally purchased cars to tourists.
– 1980s–2000s: Grew into one of largest car rental consolidators; recognized with industry awards.
– 2000s: Acquired by TowerBrook (private equity) and expanded its offerings (e.g. Groupon-style deals).
– 2020+: Continues as a top car rental broker, celebrating 65+ years in business.

(Sources: Company financial reports, SEC filings, official press releases, and reputable news outlets were used.)