Mabanaft acquired Ulceby Truckstop on a long-term lease; the truckstop was previously run and operated by Rix Petroleum Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of J R Rix and Sons Ltd. The deal, completed 22nd March 2021, is further proof of Mabanaft’s commitment to developing a network of truckstops across the country to offer drivers and companies good-value, high-quality truckstops outside those owned by the oil companies and large group networks.
Originally developed by BP, the 3.4 acre plot was acquired by J R Rix and Sons Ltd in 2004 and considerable funds were immediately invested to refurbish and improve the site. Works included resurfacing the forecourt and enhancing security by installing new perimeter fencing, and then again in 2019, they completely refitted the forecourt and service building. The new facilities include a modern café, a large well-stocked shop and ‘state of the art’ welfare facilitates for drivers. The covered forecourt offers 24/7 ‘pay at pump’ refuelling for diesel, gas oil and AdBlue and the site also provides secure parking for up to 75 HGVs.
Picking up where Rix left off
J R Rix and Sons Ltd. is a family-owned business, and the former owners were keen to pass the site on to a company with both the right values and positive plans to expand its truckstop network. Mabanaft sees owning and operating truckstops as a secure route to expanding its successful diesel bunker business and fuel card divisions. Ulceby Truckstop will be operated by Onroute Truckstops Ltd, Mabanaft’s dedicated truckstop entity.
Mabanaft’s general truckstop manager, David Hatherell, said: “Following the successful acquisition of Junction 29 and Avon Lodge, Ulceby was a logical next step towards building our network of truckstops across the UK. By tonnage Immingham is the busiest port in the UK. Ulceby Truckstop is located on the western approach to the docks, so is ideally positioned to serve the substantial volumes of commercial traffic travelling to and from Immingham and Grimsby Docks as well as the two refineries.
“We’re proud to be helping owners bring some certainty to the future of their independent truckstops. As a family owned business, Mabanaft operates with the same care and ethos as many of the owners we’re in negotiations with. It is our aim to provide the same high level of service and support to both customers and staff, providing future continuity and certainty for all concerned.”