Total signing for GB Oils

The Gibbs Garages sites at Woodstock and Banbury have re-signed with the Total brand and six others are in the pipeline as dealers warm to GB Oils’ style of operation, according to Jenny Lockwood, national accounts manager of GB Oils’ Retail Division. "After a period of uncertainty, Total dealers are now feeling much more comfortable about the future. It’s business as usual," she said. "GB Oils management has a clear plan and dealers are being kept informed of any proposed changes. The next major step is the imminent move of pricing and fuel ordering departments from Watford to Egham, which we expect to be another smooth transition."

DCC’s acquisition of Severn Fuels has also been given the green light by the Office of Fair Trading.

Rates cap campaign

A campaign to cap the annual business rates increase at 2%, in line with government targets for inflation, is being launched by the ACS. Annual rates increases are based on Retail Price Index inflation figures from the previous September, and with RPI recorded at unusually high levels in 2011, retailers face a significantly increased rates bill despite forecasts suggesting inflation will have fallen by the time rates are affected.

Community award

The My Shop is Your Shop campaign is looking for local shops with a track record in community engagement to put themselves forward for the MSYS Community Retailing Award. Following last year’s successful campaign, which saw 50 retailers presented with the award by their local MP, this year’s ambition is to find one winning store from every constituency in the UK. Contact david@fwd-uk.com to put yourself forward.