Steve Bridge to exit eStar and launch advisory firm

Steve Bridge will leave eStar at the end of 2026 and will launch an independent commercial‑vehicle advisory firm, following Daimler Truck’s acquisition of eStar. The move signals a shift in leadership and offers dealers a potential new source of market insight.

Key takeaways

• Steve Bridge will leave eStar at the end of 2026.
• He plans to start an independent commercial‑vehicle advisory business.
• The departure follows Daimler Truck’s acquisition of eStar.
• Dealers may gain a new advisory resource from his venture.

Steve Bridge’s departure

Bridge has been managing director of eStar Truck & Van since 2019, overseeing a network that supplies commercial vans and light trucks to independent dealers across the UK. His notice period runs until December 2026, after which he will step down from all executive duties.

His departure coincides with the final integration phase of Daimler Truck’s purchase of eStar, a move that aims to align the brand with the German group’s commercial‑vehicle strategy. The transition is being managed to minimise disruption for eStar’s dealer base.

eStar after the Daimler Truck acquisition

Daimler Truck completed its acquisition of eStar in early 2026, adding the UK van and light‑truck distributor to its European commercial‑vehicle portfolio. The deal provides Daimler with a direct sales channel for its Mercedes‑Benz vans while retaining eStar’s established dealer network.

The integration plan includes retaining eStar’s brand identity and service facilities, while introducing Daimler‑backed technology and financing options. Dealers are expected to benefit from enhanced product support, though the leadership change may temporarily affect day‑to‑day communications.

New commercial‑vehicle advisory business

Bridge’s new advisory venture will operate independently of any OEM, offering strategic market analysis, fleet optimisation advice, and procurement guidance to commercial‑vehicle dealers. His decade‑long experience with eStar positions him to understand dealer pain points and emerging trends.

The service could fill a gap left by Bridge’s exit, providing dealers with an external perspective on pricing, inventory management and regulatory changes. Early adoption may give users a competitive edge as the market adapts to new OEM strategies.

What this means for dealers

Dealers will lose a familiar point of contact at eStar, which may lead to short‑term uncertainty in support and negotiations. However, the company's integration with Daimler Truck should maintain product availability and service standards.

Bridge’s advisory firm offers a new channel for dealers seeking independent advice on fleet composition, pricing strategies and compliance. Engaging early could help dealers align their offerings with forthcoming market shifts and maintain profitability.

Frequently asked questions

When will Steve Bridge officially leave eStar?

Steve Bridge’s departure is scheduled for the end of December 2026, marking the conclusion of his notice period following the Daimler Truck acquisition of eStar. He will remain in his role until that date to ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities.

What type of services might his new advisory business provide?

The advisory firm is expected to deliver strategic market analysis, fleet optimisation recommendations, procurement guidance and updates on regulatory developments. By operating independently of any manufacturer, it aims to give dealers unbiased insight to improve inventory decisions and profitability.

How could the change affect dealer relationships with eStar?

While eStar will continue to operate under Daimler Truck’s ownership, the loss of Bridge’s direct contact may temporarily affect communication and negotiation dynamics. Dealers who engage with his new advisory service can mitigate disruption by accessing independent expertise alongside eStar’s existing support.