A Cumbrian-based fuels firm has announced the merger of two of its businesses.
WCF Ltd is combining its Cumbrian and Lancashire distribution networks by bringing together WCF Fuels North West and Allan Stobart Lubricants & Fuels into a single operation under the Allan Stobart name.
Both brands will continue to trade separately until May 31 when they will merge to become Allan Stobart Lubricants & Fuels.
Day-to-day service for WCF Fuels North West customers will remain unchanged, with the same delivery teams, depot operations and contact details.
Tankers will continue to operate from its Carnforth and Hawkshead depots, delivering home heating oil and commercial fuel to customers across Cumbria, Lancashire and into Cheshire.
The move follows the successful amalgamation of WCF’s east coast fuel businesses in 2024 and forms part of the firm’s ongoing strategy to strengthen operational efficiency, resilience and long-term sustainability across its fuel distribution network.
Phil Murray, chief executive officer of Brampton-based WCF, said: “Bringing together two well-established operations under the Allan Stobart brand will help us build a stronger, more resilient fuel distribution business that is well positioned for the changing dynamics of our market.
“As both businesses are part of WCF, this is a natural next step that strengthens our ability to invest, grow and continue to deliver the same dependable service our customers rely on every day.
“Our customers will experience no change in their fuel supply following the merger, which will bring benefits in terms of additional strength behind the scenes.
“By combining our operations, we are creating a larger, more resilient business with greater investment capacity for the future and improved long-term stability.
“As a business, we’re committed to long-term investment in fuel distribution and ensuring that we remain competitive and customer-focused now and in the future.”
Allan Stobart Lubricants & Fuels operates depots at Raughton Head in North Cumbria, Hexham and Carlisle, serving domestic and business customers across Cumbria, Northumberland and South West Scotland.
