In Conversation
Listening, learning...
Cont’d from page 11
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Start planning now for an environment
potentially without heating oil; what does
that mean to your business?
Do you see the Flare Group guiding a
changing fuel distribution market and
being among those taking advantage of
opportunities presented?
Yes – the Flare Group are an exceptional group
running good businesses whose company I
have been very pleased to enjoy.
Caring passionately about their business
and the industry, the importance of customer
loyalty is fully appreciated, with the realisation
that in the future it may be necessary to adapt
and offer an improved customer service.
Deadly serious in winning and enjoying
business, this group will certainly make the
most of opportunities!
With respect to fuels, what
recommendations would you make
to government, and are there more
measures that the industry can take to
better control its own destiny?
12 Fuel Oil News | November 2018
Whilst I’m not sure the present government
will be in power next year, what I would say to
any government is have they really looked into
the impact on the rural community?
Who will supply farmers, hauliers and rural
homes, and with most produce going by road,
how will that happen without diesel?
We must engage with government to
explain our industry and what we do for the
rural communities. The current knee jerk
reaction needs a more sensible discussion as it
has far reaching effects. The FPS should join
forces with OFTEC and other associations to
make a consolidated case.
To both survive and thrive in this
industry, what key requisites does a fuel
distributor need?
Great people with energy who care about
customers and colleagues, with a strong finance
department which controls cash. Every other
part of the business will solve itself – outstanding
people will find a solution to any problem.
You are leaving behind a long legacy,
where do you see NWF in the future?
I believe NWF will continue to grow through a
programme of cold starts and acquisitions.
The future is very bright with people in
place who know the business well. NWF’s
new managing director, Richard Huxley is an
experienced, competent guy with fresh ideas
who will run NWF differently, but I have no
fears for that and I am sure staff will adapt.
There have been some great characters
in this industry – how would you like to
be remembered?
When I first entered the industry there were
some fantastic larger than life characters from
whom I listened and learned.
I would like to be remembered as a
fair man who gave everyone a chance in a
company where people really do make the
difference and enjoyed their time with us.
Name your goals in retirement!
To have the longest retirement ever! After 40
years with 26 as MD, it’s the right time for me
to retire and spend more time with my family.
Travelling has always been a passion, I will
now have time to explore more of the world.
Sport has always played a big part in my life
and I intend to work and play more.
Many people think I will get bored, let’s
wait and see; inactivity is not an option!