Held at the Exhibition Centre Liverpool on 15-16 April under the theme Shaping the Future of Liquid Fuels, the two-day event once again underlined the importance of collaboration, practical problem-solving and strategic thinking across a sector facing rapid change.
Sponsored by Phillips 66, the annual gathering provided a timely reminder of the industry’s continuing role in keeping rural homes, farms, businesses and local communities supplied, while also navigating the opportunities and pressures of the wider energy transition.
Insight, operations and policy in focus
Delegates heard from a wide-ranging line-up of speakers covering both day-to-day operational priorities and longer-term strategic challenges.
Sessions included practical guidance from a serving police officer on roadside inspections, cyber security advice on prevention and response, and an insightful market update reflecting the fast-moving trading environment many distributors continue to manage.
Day two brought a strong policy focus. UKIFDA CEO Ken Cronin challenged common perceptions around heating oil pricing with a data-led presentation, while a live recording of the Wolfe Power podcast, hosted by Alex Wolfe, explored how energy policy is shaping voter priorities ahead of local elections.
The discussion featured Sir Jake Berry, Harriet Cross MP and Carl Cashman, offering delegates a cross-party perspective on the energy policy landscape.
Further sessions examined the future of fuel supply, infrastructure resilience and the role renewable liquid fuels could play within the evolving energy mix.
Celebrating excellence across the industry
The event also recognised outstanding achievement through the annual UKIFDA Awards.
Joint Innovation Award winners Watson Fuels and COBO Tankers were praised for their collaborative work to improve tanker safety – a partnership that drew considerable interest across the exhibition floor.
Meanwhile, Valero was named Stand of the Show, with judges recognising a strong presence that reflected both its refreshed branding and wider community engagement.
Strong turnout and positive mood
Alongside the conference programme, the event delivered valuable networking opportunities, beginning with the President’s Drinks Reception hosted by Phil Murray and followed by the UKIFDA Dinner & Awards. Guests also heard from John Parrott MBE, who provided the after-dinner address.
Reflecting on the event, Ken Cronin said the industry had demonstrated its resilience and willingness to move forward despite ongoing market challenges.
“There’s no denying it has been a challenging time for the liquid fuel distribution sector, but EXPO and Conference 2026 has demonstrated the strength of the industry when it comes together.
“The level of engagement, the quality of discussion and the willingness to share insight all point to a sector that is focused on adapting and moving forward.
He added that strong attendance, positive feedback on the new exhibition floor layout and the growing number of tankers on display all contributed to a productive and engaging two days.
A sector that values coming together
At a time when the liquid fuels sector faces commercial pressure, policy uncertainty and a wide range of demands, the atmosphere in Liverpool offered an important signal: this remains an industry prepared to invest, innovate and engage.
For many attendees, EXPO 2026 was not simply a trade event, but a clear demonstration of a sector determined to shape its own future.
Planning is already underway for the 2027 event, with further details expected in due course.
Images from UKIFDA