The news marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey, having grown from a local, family-run operation established in rural Wiltshire in 1957, to a leading distributor of fuels and lubricants, serving homes, farms, and businesses nationwide.
The acquisition includes all Watson Fuels operations:
- Domestic heating oil and heating services
- Agricultural and commercial bulk fuel
- Lubricants
- Fuel cards
- Specialist fuels and wholesale
The move comes at a pivotal time for the UK and Ireland’s fuel distribution industry, as companies adapt to changing energy needs, supply chain dynamics, and the drive toward more sustainable fuel solutions.
New chapter
“This marks an exciting new chapter for Watson Fuels,” said Matt Whitton, CEO of Watson Fuels. “We have a long history of delivering exceptional service to our customers, and with the support of Inspirit Capital, we are well-positioned to drive future growth and innovation. We look forward to continuing to serve our customers with the same dedication and reliability that has defined Watson Fuels for decades.”
Inspirit Capital specialises in acquiring businesses that no longer align with their parent companies’ strategic priorities and benefit from new ownership structures to reach their full potential. The firm manages capital on behalf of a blue-chip institutional investor base.
Paul Youens, Investment Director at Inspirit Capital, added: “We are delighted to be supporting the company’s next phase of growth as an independent business. We look forward to working closely with the Watson Fuels team to leverage the company’s strengths and capitalise on emerging opportunities in the sector.”
With the backing of Inspirit Capital, Watson Fuels reaffirms its commitment to the personal service and reliable delivery that customers across the UK have trusted since 1957.
Services will continue uninterrupted, with an emphasis on continuity, innovation, and exploring new opportunities in a rapidly changing market.
About Watson Fuels
- For nearly 70 years, Watson Fuels has been trusted by commercial, agricultural, and residential customers throughout the UK. Delivering 1.4 billion litres of fuel and lubricants annually, the company operates:
- 40+ regional supply locations
- 230+ company-operated delivery trucks
The image, provided by Watson Fuels, includes the New Watson Fuels Board of Directors and members of the Inspirit Team – left to right: Albert Farrant, Founding Partner, Inspirit Capital; Ed Beazley, Investment Associate, Inspirit Capital; Shaun Galvin, CSO, Watson Fuels; Paul Youens, Investment Director, Inspirit Capital; Matt Whitton, CEO, Watson Fuels; Callum Fyfe, Portfolio Director, Inspirit Capital; Chris Homer, CFO, Watson Fuels; Dan Brain, COO, Watson Fuels