Two UK oil companies are expanding through development and acquisition.
Niche lubes producer, Millers Oils, has opened a £500,000 ($800k) state-of-the-art Research and Development Centre. The new unit will allow Millers to develop low-friction oils which, according to the company, will “set new standards for efficiency”.
The 125-year-old business has seen turnover rise from £10 million to £27 million in the last decade and believes its new R & D Centre will drive further growth. “As a relatively small company it is important that we develop innovative solutions to meet the challenges our customers face,” according to Joint-MD Nevil Hall.
Amongst Millers' recent innovations is an oil-free lubricant which will eliminate the need to degrease manipulated tubes prior to welding. The gel-form lubricant could help solve a common issue in pipe welding.
Meanwhile fuel distributor, GB Oils, has acquired Tincknell Lubricants from Tincknell Fuels Ltd and will trade under the Emo Oil brand, while Tincknell Fuels will continue to operate separately.
Emo Oil will remain an authorized shell lubricants distributor and will consolidate its existing customers in the South West of England, while expanding its lubricants service to commercial, agricultural and domestic customers. The acquisition will also improve storage and infrastructure for the business.