Earlier this month, HKS Holdings completed its acquisition of the Leicestershire-based Brobot Group.
The family-owned group has acquired 30 filling stations in three months, taking its total number of sites to just under 60. Following the addition of 23 Brobot sites, the company now stretches from Yorkshire to Surrey; HKS expects annualised turnover to reach £250m, representing growth of over 150%.
Brobot was founded by John Bootle in 1978 with a single site at Thorpe Road, Melton Mowbray and expanded through acquisitions over the years. John Bootle died tragically early in 1996, following which Brobot continued its successful growth under the chairmanship of his wife, Pat Bootle and her dedicated executive directors, Bridget Smith and Eddie Bright; the latter said the sale was ‘a great fit’ and he wished HKS ‘every success.’
Earlier this year HKS was in 10th position in Forecourt Trader’s Top 50 Indies with Brobot in 11th place; recent acquisitions would now put HKS in 5th position.
“We’re delighted at the addition of the new locations,” said Shane Thakrar, chief executive at HKS Holdings.
“We’d like to extend our thanks to the Bootle family, Eddie Bright and Bridget Smith from Brobot for trusting us with the acquisition and taking these sites forward in the future. We look forward to welcoming the new members of our team on board to work alongside our existing committed team of individuals.”
HKS, which took the business of the year title at the Midlands Asian business awards, has recently signed a deal with SPAR to brand the majority of its forecourt retail units – Brobot is predominantly Londis – as well as concluding deals with Subway and Costa.
www.hksretail.co.uk
www.brobot.co.uk
www.brobotfuels.co.uk
Tony Smith brings over 30 years’ experience in the oil and gas sector to the Peel Gas and Oil team.
Peel Gas & Oil, a member of United Kingdom Onshore Oil and Gas (UKOOG) has expanded its team by appointing Tony Smith as commercial strategy manager.
Joining from SLR – where he led development of business strategy, including environmental services, relating to shale gas – Tony brings over 30 years’ experience in the oil and gas sector to the team.
Born in Bradford, Tony joined BP Research after gaining his PhD in oil degradation, kick-starting an accomplished career that would see him negotiate landmark gas contracts for ExxonMobil.
He will strengthen Peel Gas & Oil’s offer as an essential development partner to shale gas licence holders, helping to speed up delivery and de-risk investment via the company’s skills and assets in land, infrastructure and utilities.
“I’m extremely proud to be starting the next chapter of my career with Peel Gas & Oil,” said Tony.
“The commercial factors to getting an onshore industry off the ground are complex and require a collaborative approach. My experience of advising global clients on all aspects from sales and quality, to transportation and infrastructure will be a key aspect of my new role.”
Before joining Peel Gas & Oil, Tony also travelled the world during successful periods with Schlumberger and as a strategic adviser to some of the biggest players in the global gas market.
“Tony’s encyclopaedic knowledge of the industry and enviable experience of the market mean he will be a valued addition to our team,” said managing director Myles Kitcher.
“He joins us at an exciting time for the industry, as a swathe of new shale licences are due to be offered across the country. Our focus must now be to overcome the industry’s challenges and foster a connected approach that will deliver progress and stimulate a thriving supply chain in the UK.”
Earlier this year Peel Gas and Oil commissioned a study by AMION Consulting. The report Shale Gas – Creating a Supply Hub for the Bowland Shale – found that developing a supply hub in the Bowland Shale could see Northern economies benefit from a £30 billion boost. It also found that development of a supply chain to support the industry could also support 13,000 jobs – more than double the amount than without a supply hub. Download a copy at www.peelgasandoil.co.uk.www.peel.co.uk
Certas Energy vehicles are now equipped with ATEX-approved Hawk mobile computers from TouchStar Technologies
TouchStar Technologies has been working with Certas Energy to optimise its fuel delivery process.
Having grown organically and rapidly through acquisition, Certas Energy’s network of depots has grown. Finding there were multiple sites serving each region, the company reviewed its whole supply chain strategy.
The decision to implement in-vehicle technology was part of a wider strategic review with Certas Energy wanting to ensure its operation remained cost-effective, provided product on time and to agreed service levels.
“TouchStar and Certas Energy worked closely to define and implement a robust system capable of handling the transaction and delivery scenarios necessary for a service-driven heating oil distribution environment,” commented David Hauff, head of logistics services at Certas Energy.
“We anticipate a relatively short ROI based upon the genuine reduction in vehicle mileage and the administration associated with delivery errors. Of equal importance are the ‘softer’ benefits we have derived such as a delighted customer base.”
“I’m pleased to report that, six months after implementation, the system has met all of the key aims listed below:
• Reduction in paperwork by eradicating the need for delivery tickets
• Reduction in vehicle mileage
• Elimination of errors in delivery data via automation of updates
• Elimination of delays in delivery data via real-time transmission
• Increase in service levels through a more reactive service
• Optimisation of the scheduling process
TouchStar’s software application has been designed specifically around the requirements of a heating oil delivery process, handling the interfaces to the tachograph, various meter types, printer and navigation data. The system provides vehicle checks, loading instructions, delivery details and end of shift reports to HMRC approved standards.
In the vehicle TouchStar has supplied ATEX-approved Hawk mobile computers. The Hawk devices have a robust large screen interface for the driver that clearly presents delivery instructions and navigation guidance, as well as facilitating a signature capture option for customers. The live link between the driver and the back office facilitates the optimisation of the scheduling process by enabling a central view to be achieved leading to optimised fleet utilisation.www.touchstar.co.ukwww.certasenergy.co.uk
Paul Brown will help RE:Group to grow its fuel oils business with a particular focus on heavy users of heating oil
A specialist with 30 years’ chemicals and fuel industry experience has joined RE:Group (UK) as it continues to develop its industrial fuel oils division.
Paul Brown is the Hull-based company’s new industrial fuel sales manager and joins after 10 years as a waste management broker and solvent sales representative.
RE:Group, which has extensive experience in waste oil management and hydrocarbon recovery, currently handles more than 50 million litres of marine and industrial oil each year and sells specialist fuels to sectors such as brewing, food production, aggregates and abattoirs.
Commercial director Phil Evans said: “Paul has a wealth of relevant experience and has worked with a wide range of industries across Yorkshire, Lancashire and around the UK for many years. He has been brought on board to help us with the growth of our fuel oils business for a range of industries that are heavy users of heating oil.”
Paul began his career working in the stores of a chemicals company in Castleford, where he still lives. He then moved into the recycling industry working for several blue chip companies.
Paul’s appointment follows the retirement of fuel sales manager Derek Crossley, who has been with the company since 2012 and has enjoyed a 48-year career, including six years in the Royal Navy and 30 years in the fuel industry.
Established in 1996, RE:Group has three sites in Hull, including its new head office, and a collection site in North Lincolnshire. The company has in-house UKAS-accredited laboratories and invests significantly in research and development.www.regroup.uk.com
Lee Webb – a highly experienced engineer who will drive continuous improvement throughout Emco Wheaton’s factory
Lee Webb has been appointed as production manager at Emco Wheaton’s Margate plant in Kent.
“Lee is a highly experienced engineer with a wealth of experience,” said general manager Andrew Dawson-Goodey.
“His knowledge of operations and production within a manufacturing environment will further strengthen Emco Wheaton’s production facility as well as growing the company’s capabilities as customers’ requirements develop.
A graduate of the University of Warwick with an MSc in engineering business management and a post graduate award in manufacturing engineering systems, Lee joins Emco Wheaton from Cummins Power Generation, where his roles included, value stream transformation manager, senior manufacturing engineer/certified 6S green belt and operations manufacturing engineer.
“We’re delighted to welcome a production manager of Lee’s calibre to Emco Wheaton,” added Andrew.
Lee will be focusing on driving continuous improvement throughout the factory, to be able to deliver shorter cycle times and improve on time delivery.www.emcowheaton.com
(l-r) Jim Hunt and Kevin Kelleher who were involved in the production of Carbery Plastics’s first tank – a 1550L – 30 years ago, with Cal and Michael McCarthy beside the 650L Combi R – Carbery’s newest design
This month Carbery Plastics is celebrating its 30th anniversary with the launch of a brand new oil tank.
Over the last three decades, Carbery Plastics has embraced new design technology, developed a new generation of fuel tanks and welcomed the next generation of the McCarthy family to the business. The company’s 40-strong workforce is managed by an experienced team with a passion for rotational moulding.
Offering innovative fuel storage solutions and robust mobile fuel pumps, Carbery Plastics produces high quality oil tanks to European Standard EN13341 ensuring that tanks are fit for purpose. Not only does its oil tank range meet European Standards, all tanks are fully OFTEC registered.
Since the initial hand drawn designs of the company’s first oil tank, design techniques and technology have come on leaps and bounds. CAD has rapidly improved the design process allowing Carbery Plastics to simulate and modify designs more efficiently and more effectively whilst Finite Element Analysis tools enable the company to simulate the strain tanks must endure once in real world use.
Carbery Plastics has a strong presence in the agricultural and construction sectors across Ireland, the UK and Europe. Backed by design improvements and increasing knowledge of customer requirements, the company was quick to develop both single skin and bunded oil tanks; the latter now required for all commercial, industrial and institutional installations in Ireland and the UK.
To mark its 30th anniversary, Carbery Plastics is launching a new low capacity oil tank. The ultra-compact Carbery 650 Litre Combi R is ideal for customers seeking a smaller tank for security and cash flow reasons; it also works well for households with renewable technologies where oil demand is less.www.carberyplastics.com
Members of the Tuffa team celebrate their award winning success
Staffordshire-based Tuffa Tanks, which recently supplied an oil tank to the country’s National Memorial Arboretum, has been awarded the title of manufacturer of the year.
The award, which was in recognition of ‘the ever-growing manufacturing sector in Burton, South Derbyshire and Uttoxeter’ was given by the Burton Mail.
Looking for companies that had excelled in the manufacturing sector since July 2012, the judges considered all aspects of the manufacturing process including product design, testing, development, production, marketing, sales and overall business performance.
“This was one proud moment in the history of Tuffa,” said Charlie Goring.
“The years 2013-2015 saw some tremendous changes which were only possible through the hard work and dedication given by all the Tuffa team.
Illustrating the diverse list of Tuffa’s customers, a 1350SLB bunded oil tank was recently delivered to the National Memorial Arboretum at Alrewas in Staffordshire. The tank will supply a jumbo 200watt heater which warms a large outdoor marquee used for various events throughout the year.www.tuffa.co.uk
Launching CO Awareness month in Northern Ireland at the beginning of November
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Awareness Month has been running throughout November. In Northern Ireland, OFTEC has been warning householders of the dangers after an increasing number of incidents across the country this year.
Despite major growth in stove sales, many people are unaware of the connection between CO and fossil fuels. Research in the Republic of Ireland during its CO awareness week in September found that only 50% of consumers were aware of the potential risk from oil heating and just 40% for coal.
“It’s very important that householders understand the importance of checking their home heating systems annually,” said OFTEC Ireland manager David Blevings.
“An oil boiler should be serviced correctly by a qualified technician – a boiler clean will not give protection from a potential carbon monoxide threat. When conducting a boiler service, OFTEC technicians use a flue gas analyser as standard, which gives the boiler an efficiency rating; more importantly it checks for carbon monoxide spillage.
OFTEC is also establishing a new solid fuel register of qualified heating technicians and installers which clearly details those who have been specifically trained to safely install and maintain solid and multi-fuel stoves.
“People need to be aware of the dangers and ensure stoves are installed and maintained correctly,” added David. “If a flue is installed incorrectly this can lead to a fire starting in the attic or a carbon monoxide leak. Like all fuel burning appliances, stoves should only be installed by a competent person and then serviced at least once a year for optimum safety and peace of mind.”
Richard Meredith, chair of the CO safety group and head of gas safety at the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland said:
“Now in its third year, we’re delighted that OFTEC continues to support this initiative to highlight the dangers of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide can kill and even low-level exposure over a long period can cause lasting damage to your health.”
“We would agree with OFTEC’s advice for consumers to ensure all fuel burning appliances – such as heaters, boilers and cookers – are serviced at least annually by a registered engineer. And, all chimneys and flues should be inspected annually and swept, if required, by a registered technician. As an additional precaution, you should also install an audible carbon monoxide alarm.”
“The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often difficult to diagnose as it mimics the symptoms of other common illnesses such as flu and headaches. Everyone should be aware of its dangers and know what measures to take to protect themselves and others.”watchout.hseni.gov.uk/
Staffordshire Fuels, a 32 million litres per year business based at Stone has been acquired by NWF Fuels; a move that will increase the latter’s volume by 8%.
Staffordshire Fuels, which was established in 1996, operates a fleet of seven tankers and will continue to operate as a standalone fuel depot.
Richard Whiting, the NWF Group’s chief executive said: “The acquisition is in line with our growth strategy, increases our penetration in Staffordshire and the West Midlands and will be earnings enhancing in the first full year.”
Both companies operate as longstanding JET-branded authorised distributors.
“Phillips 66 is a long-term fuel supplier to both Staffordshire Fuels and NWF Fuels,” said Mary Wolf, managing director of Phillips 66 UK & Ireland Marketing.
“NWF Fuels has been a JET branded distributor since 1996 and it’s fantastic to see the company continue to go from strength to strength over the years. Just last year Phillips 66 joined NWF Fuels in celebrating the opening of the company’s new Mansfield depot, the latest fuel distribution depot in its strategic expansion plan. The Mansfield depot is supplied by our Humber Refinery.
“We would also like to acknowledge the great relationship we’ve had with Staffordshire Fuels over the many years we’ve been working together. We now look forward to building on our relationship with NWF Fuels as the business continues to develop its presence in Staffordshire and the West Midlands following the acquisition of Staffordshire Fuels.”
www.nwf.co.uk
www.staffsfuels.co.uk
Andy Smith brings 17 years experience in the fuel card business to Rix-owned Fuelmate
Well-known industry professional Andy Smith has been appointed to head up the Rix-owned Fuelmate fuel card operation.
“Fuel cards are my background. I started as a sales rep at 19-years old and have worked in the industry ever since.
“In that time I’ve always been aware of Rix – the company has a great reputation – so I’m am really pleased to have been appointed to head up Fuelmate which has fantastic potential.
During his career Andy has launched a fuel card division from a standing start, growing it to turnover £50m in nine years. At 29 he was appointed to senior management level managing both fuel card and retail divisions. He has spent the past four years working in Ireland to grow his knowledge of the European fuel card market.
“I will be looking to capitalise on, and grow, the existing brand value of the business whilst working closely with sales and account teams to ensure we’re deriving the greatest value we can from our resources for our customers.
“I have my eye firmly on growth and I’m looking forward to taking the business to the next level.”
“Andy has a great pedigree in the industry,” said Rory Clarke, managing director of Rix Petroleum.
“We’re very excited to have him on board and confident that Fuelmate is great hands with Andy at the helm.”
Hull-based Fuelmate currently employs 15 people across sales, account management and admin roles. The company supplies all major fuel cards including Keyfuels and UK Fuels, BP, Shell, Texaco, Esso, European card DKV and Fleetmate – a bespoke solution aimed at fleet operators and based on the specific requirements of the client.
“Fuelmate can be tailored to the fleet operator’s needs and it’s is also scaleable,” added Andy. “It can be used by companies operating fleets of just three or four vehicles up to those with hundreds of vehicles.”www.fuelmate.co.uk
