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{{short description|Manchester based oils company}}
{{Redirect|Crown Oil|Crown Central Petroleum|Crown Central Petroleum}}
{{For|Crown Central Petroleum|Crown Central Petroleum}}
'''Crown Oil Ltd''' is a fuels and lubricants distribution company located in [[Bury, Greater Manchester]], [[England]].
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2022}}
{{Infobox company
| name = Crown Oil Ltd
| logo = Red Crown Oil Logo.JPG
| logo_alt = Crown Oil logo
| image =
| trade_name = Crown Oil
| former_name = Silver Crown Oil Distributors
| type = [[Privately held company|Private]]
| industry = Fuel distribution
| founded = 1947<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.crownoil.co.uk/about-us|title = About Crown Oil}}</ref>
| founder = Harry Greensmith
| hq_location = Bury, Greater Manchester
| key_people = Charles Greensmith, Matthew Greensmith ([[Managing Director]])
| products = {{Unbulleted list|[[Diesel fuel|Diesel]]|[[Red diesel]]|[[Gas oil]]|[[Kerosene]]|[[Biofuel]]|[[Lubricants]]}}
| revenue = {{Unbulleted list|{{increase}} {{GBP|197,500,000}} (2019)|{{GBP|144,600,000}} (2018)}}
| revenue_year = 2019
| owner = Greensmith family (100%)
| subsid = {{Unbulleted list|Crown Oil Environmental|Speedy Fuels|Beesley Fuels|Crown Energy|Crown Gas & Power}}
| homepage = {{URL|crownoil.co.uk}}
}}
'''Crown Oil Ltd,''' also trading as '''Crown Oil Fuels and Lubricants''' or simply '''Crown Oil''', is a fuels and lubricants distribution company located in [[Bury, Greater Manchester]], [[England]]. The fuel distributor specialises in national supply of [[Diesel fuel|diesel]], gas oil, [[kerosene]] and [[lubricants]] among other fuels and oils to the commercial and domestic market in the [[United Kingdom]].


Crown Oil has depots in six locations around the UK, including Bury, [[Birmingham]], [[Iver]], and three in [[Greater London]] with the Bury depot being the main depot that the fuel supplier operates from.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/business/business-news/fuel-distribution-group-crownoilsecures-double-15251655|title=Fuel distribution group Crown Oil secures double acquisition|last=Greer|first=Stuart|date=2018-10-08|website=men|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref>
==History ==
Crown Oil began trading in 1928 and was owned by Harry Greensmith; affectionately known as "Harry Lamp Oil". Greensmith traded door-to-door from a wooden cart, providing household goods, such as fire lighters, candles, and lamp oil (kerosene). After [[World War II]], Greensmith expanded the product range of the company to include the bulk supply of fuels and lubricants.


== History ==
The name 'Silver Crown Oil Distributors'<ref>http://epr.ofgem.gov.uk/index.php?pk=folder130197, Office of Gas and Electricity Markets, Public register, Crown Oil, Retrieved September 19, 2010</ref> was used from around 1947.<ref>https://www.crownoil.co.uk/about-us/</ref> The business was based in [[Heywood, Greater Manchester|Heywood]], Greater Manchester, England.
Crown Oil began trading in 1928 and was owned by Harry Greensmith, affectionately known as "Harry Lamp Oil".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.crownoil.co.uk/about-us/|title=About Crown Oil – Nationwide Fuels, Oils & Lubricants Supplier|website=Crown Oil|language=en-GB|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref> Greensmith traded door-to-door from a wooden cart, providing household goods such as firelighters, candles, and lamp oil (kerosene). After [[World War II]], Greensmith expanded the product range of the company to include the bulk supply of fuels and lubricants.


The name Silver Crown Oil Distributors<ref>http://epr.ofgem.gov.uk/index.php?pk=folder130197, Office of Gas and Electricity Markets, Public register, Crown Oil, Retrieved September 19, 2010.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://beta.companieshouse.gov.uk/company/01315556|title=CROWN OIL LIMITED – Overview (free company information from Companies House)|website=beta.companieshouse.gov.uk|language=en|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref> was used from around 1947.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.crownoil.co.uk/about-us/|title = About Crown Oil}}</ref> The business was based in [[Heywood, Greater Manchester|Heywood]], [[Greater Manchester]], England.
In 1959, Harry's only son, David Greensmith, joined the [[family business]] and new premises were acquired in the Heap Bridge area of Heywood. The distribution of [[fuel]]s and [[lubricant]]s became the primary business activity. The business was incorporated in 1977 and the name was changed to Crown Oil Limited.


In 1959, Harry's only son, David Greensmith, joined the [[family business]], and new premises were acquired in the Heap Bridge area of Heywood, where the company is currently located. The distribution of [[fuel]]s and [[lubricant]]s became the firm's primary business activity, with [[red diesel]] currently making up the majority of business. In 1977 the business was incorporated and the name changed to Crown Oil Limited.
The present headquarters, completed in 1990, are located at Bury in Greater Manchester.<ref>http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=The+Oil+Centre,+Bury,+BL9+7HY&jsv=139e&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=11.540145,28.125&ie=UTF8&latlng=53590996,-2268705,12581746867453316788&ei=u11GSdRlpOTbAo7HqO8O&cd=1 Google Maps, Retrieved September 19, 2010.</ref> Headquarters was named 'The Oil Centre'.


The present head office, completed in 1990, is located at Bury in Greater Manchester.<ref>http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=The+Oil+Centre,+Bury,+BL9+7HY&jsv=139e&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=11.540145,28.125&ie=UTF8&latlng=53590996,-2268705,12581746867453316788&ei=u11GSdRlpOTbAo7HqO8O&cd=1 Google Maps, Retrieved September 19, 2010.</ref> The headquarters was named the 'Oil Centre'.
Crown Oil remains family-owned. Ownership passed from Harry to his son, David, and thereafter to his grandchildren Andrew, Matthew and Abigail. Matthew Greensmith is now managing director, following David's early death in 2007.


Crown Oil remains family-owned.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://beta.companieshouse.gov.uk/company/01315556/persons-with-significant-control|title=Persons with significant control|website=beta.companieshouse.gov.uk|language=en|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref> According to the company's history, in 1949, ownership passed from Harry to his son, David, and thereafter to his grandchildren Andrew, Matthew, and Abigail in 2007, following David's premature death in 2007.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.crownoil.co.uk/about-us/|title=About Crown Oil – Nationwide Fuels, Oils & Lubricants Supplier|website=Crown Oil|language=en-GB|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref> Matthew Greensmith is the current managing director.
==Awards and sponsorship ==
Crown Oil was listed in "Crain's List Manchester 200 Largest Companies" in May 2008,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://pdf.edocr.com/44f0c89931e051889c429660a823689acbd26882.pdf |title=Archived copy |accessdate=2008-12-15 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080726184130/http://pdf.edocr.com/44f0c89931e051889c429660a823689acbd26882.pdf |archivedate=2008-07-26 |df= }} Crain's List, Manchester 200, Crown Oil Ltd., Retrieved September 19, 2010.</ref> taking the 60th position.


== Environmental commitments ==
In May 2013, Crown Oil was announced as the principle sponsor of Rochdale AFC for the 2013/14 season. After a successful campaign in League Two, Rochdale AFC were promoted to League One and Crown Oil partnered with them again for the 2014/15 season.
Crown Oil Environmental was set up to assist with the [[environmental hazard]]s that are caused by fuels – such as [[oil spill]]s and [[Microbial contamination of diesel fuel|microbial contamination]]. Environmental collects waste oils and recycles these oils for re-use. It also disposes of waste diesel in line with regulations. Tank cleaning is also undertaken in order to prevent mechanical failure caused by contaminated diesel.


As part of the company's work towards environmental responsibility, all delivery mileage is [[carbon offset]] to keep {{CO2}} emissions to a minimum.
In 2014, Crown Oil finished 163rd<ref>http://www.fasttrack.co.uk/fasttrack/leagues/top250leaguetable.asp?siteID=5&searchName=&yr=2014&sort=num&area1=99/ {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151118125700/http://www.fasttrack.co.uk/fasttrack/leagues/top250leaguetable.asp?siteID=5&searchName=&yr=2014&sort=num&area1=99%2F |date=2015-11-18 }}</ref> in The Sunday Times Grant Thornton Top Track 250 league table. This ranks Britain's mid-market growth private companies with the largest sales.


In 2019, Crown Oil committed further to reducing fossil fuels' environmental impact by turning its attention to [[Biofuel#Green diesel|hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO fuel)]], when the company invested £4 million in stocks of the renewable fuel, making it reportedly one of the only suppliers in the UK with a stock of the fuel.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://bioenergyinternational.com/biofuels-oils/crown-oil-invest-4-million-in-hvo|title=Crown Oil invests £4 million in HVO supply capacity|date=2019-08-27|website=Bioenergy International|language=en-US|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref> HVO fuel is said to be useful for industries such as farming,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fwi.co.uk/business/markets-and-trends/input-prices/biofuels-promise-to-reduce-farmers-carbon-footprint|title=Biofuels promise to reduce farmers' carbon footprint|date=2019-08-08|website=Farmers Weekly|language=en-US|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref> commercial vehicles<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.commercialfleet.org/fleet-management/going-green-with-alternative-fuels|title=Fuelling the pursuit of green fleets|website=www.commercialfleet.org|language=en|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref> and [[Data center|data centres]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.electricalreview.co.uk/features-mm/12553-hvo-biofuel-the-future-of-data-centre-emergency-power-fuelling|title=HVO biofuel: The future of data centre emergency power fuelling|website=www.electricalreview.co.uk|date=9 September 2019|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref> to reduce their carbon emissions.
In August 2016, Crown Oil signed a sponsorship deal with [[Rochdale A.F.C.]] and [[Spotland Stadium]] was renamed Crown Oil Arena.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/rochdale-rename-spotland-part-new-11719694 |publisher=Manchester Evening News |date=8 August 2016 |accessdate=8 August 2016}}</ref>


Other {{CO2}}-reducing fuels supplied are [[biodiesel]] and CHP biofuel.
As a UK based lubricants blender and supplier, Crown Oil is part of the UKLA (United Kingdom Lubricants Association) and [[UEIL]].


== Expansion and acquisitions ==
Crown Oil has expanded its business over time through the acquisition of other fuel suppliers:

* In 1990, Crown Oil's headquarters expanded to include Crown House. In 2007 planning permission was granted for further expansion, in what would become the Crown Point building.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/local-news/1m-bid-to-create-70-new-994024|title=£1m bid to create 70 new jobs|last=News|first=Manchester Evening|date=2007-05-30|website=men|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref>
* In 2012, the company opened a depot in [[Iver]], [[Buckinghamshire]] to service [[West London]] businesses as well as the domestic market in the area, and introduced the Speedy Fuels brand to service this area.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/business/business-news/crown-oil-opens-new-depot-699440|title=Crown Oil opens new depot to target London|last=News|first=Manchester Evening|date=2012-12-21|website=men|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref> Additionally, the business acquired Cooke Fuels, who had fallen into administration.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://fueloilnews.co.uk/2012/08/crown-oil-announces-acquisition-of-samuel-cooke/|title=Crown Oil announces acquisition of Samuel Cooke|access-date=October 15, 2019}}</ref>
*Crown Oil also acquired fuel supplier Ingoe Oils.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ingoeoils.co.uk/terms-and-conditions/|title=Terms & Conditions|website=Ingoe Oils|language=en-US|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref>
* 2018 saw the double acquisition of [[Birmingham]]-based Beesley Fuels and Birlem Fuels through the Speedy Fuels brand.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/business/business-news/fuel-distribution-group-crownoilsecures-double-15251655|title=Fuel distribution group Crown Oil secures double acquisition|last=Greer|first=Stuart|date=2018-10-08|website=men|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref>
* Crown Oil also expanded into other energy-related industries with the launch of Crown Oil Environmental, the waste fuel collection arm of the business; Crown Energy, a utility installation service; Crown Gas and Power, an energy supplier. These businesses make up the Crown Oil group of companies.
*2020 saw the most recent acquisition, that of Stockport-based Star Oil and this purchase meant that 11 of 12 Star Oil staff and a fleet of eight vehicles, joined Crown Oil, the only exception being a director.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Daniel|first=Hopkins|date=2020-10-28|title=Crown Oil strengthens brand after acquiring new oil supplier|work=Bury Times|url=https://www.burytimes.co.uk/news/18827688.crown-oil-strengthens-brand-acquiring-new-oil-supplier/|access-date=2020-10-28}}</ref>
* As a result of expansion, the Crown Oil [[Fleet vehicle|fleet]] of [[Tank truck|tankers]] rose from 25 vehicles in 2016 to reportedly 53 in 2018.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://fueloilnews.co.uk/top-fuel-oil-distributors/|title=Top Fuel Oil Distributors and Logistics|website=fueloilnews.co.uk|date=11 April 2012|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref> In 2019, that in creased to 58 tankers, placing the company's fleet among the ten largest fuel oil distributor fleets in the UK.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Top Fuel Distributors and Logistics|url=https://fueloilnews.co.uk/top-fuel-oil-distributors/}}</ref> In 2020, as a result of the Star Oil acquisition, that fleet increased by a further eight vehicles, taking the total to 66.

== Subsidiaries ==
In total, the Crown Oil group of companies is made up of nine fuel suppliers, energy suppliers and utility installation services. Around 1,500 people are employed across the group.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.bqlive.co.uk/energy/2018/09/19/news/deals-for-crown-oil-as-it-continues-on-the-acquisition-trail-33677/|title=Deals for Crown Oil as it continues on the acquisition trail|website=www.bqlive.co.uk|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref>

* Crown Oil Ltd
* Crown Oil Environmental
* Speedy Fuels
* Beesley Fuels
* Cooke Fuels
* Birlem Oil
* Ingoe Oils
* Crown Gas and Power
* Crown Energy
*Star Oil

== Awards ==
Crown Oil Ltd has earned multiple recognitions over the years.

* In May 2008, Crown Oil was listed on Crain's: Manchester Top 200 list of companies, taking the 60th position.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://pdf.edocr.com/44f0c89931e051889c429660a823689acbd26882.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=2008-12-15 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080726184130/http://pdf.edocr.com/44f0c89931e051889c429660a823689acbd26882.pdf |archive-date=2008-07-26 }} Crain's List, Manchester 200, Crown Oil Ltd., Retrieved September 19, 2010.</ref>
* In 2012, Crown Oil won a HazardX award for its environmental contribution to the industry.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://fueloilnews.co.uk/2012/07/recognition-for-crown-oils-environmental-contribution/|title=Recognition for Crown Oil's environmental contribution|work=Fuel Oil News|access-date=October 15, 2019}}</ref>
* In 2014, Crown Oil finished 163rd in [[The Sunday Times]] Grant Thornton Top Track 250 league table. This ranks Britain's mid-market growth private companies with the largest sales.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fasttrack.co.uk/company_profile/crown-oil/|title=Fast Track|last=TWK|website=Fast Track|language=en-GB|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref>
* In February, as a result of company expansion, the fuel supplier qualified for a spot as one of the UK mainland, Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland's Top 20 fuel distributors.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://fueloilnews.co.uk/top-fuel-oil-distributors/|title=Top Fuel Distributors|work=Fuel Oil News|access-date=October 15, 2019}}</ref>
* In May 2019, Crown Oil was named in the 'Ward Hadaway Greater Manchester Fastest 50 Companies'.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wardhadaway.com/fastest-50-awards/fastest-50-greater-manchester/greater-manchester-fastest-50-companies-2019/|title=Greater Manchester Fastest 50 companies 2019|website=Ward Hadaway|language=en-US|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref>
* In 2019, Crown Oil ranked 133rd in The Sunday Times Grant Thornton Top Track 250 league table, the fifth time it qualified for the league table.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fasttrack.co.uk/company_profile/crown-oil-5/|title=Crown Oil – Sunday Times Grant Thornton Top track 250|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fasttrack.co.uk/company_profile/crown-oil-4/|title=Fast Track|last=TWK|website=Fast Track|language=en-GB|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fasttrack.co.uk/company_profile/crown-oil-3/|title=Fast Track|last=TWK|website=Fast Track|language=en-GB|access-date=2019-10-15|archive-date=15 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191015154226/https://www.fasttrack.co.uk/company_profile/crown-oil-3/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fasttrack.co.uk/company_profile/crown-oil-2/|title=Fast Track|last=TWK|website=Fast Track|language=en-GB|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fasttrack.co.uk/company_profile/crown-oil/|title=Fast Track|last=TWK|website=Fast Track|language=en-GB|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref>

As a UK based lubricants blender and supplier, Crown Oil is part of the UKLA (United Kingdom Lubricants Association) and [[UEIL]]. Crown Oil is also registered with Oil Firing Technical Association (OFTEC) and is certified as a [[Crown Commercial Service]] supplier.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.crowncommercial.gov.uk/suppliers/488/crown-oil-limited|title=CROWN OIL LIMITED – CCS|website=www.crowncommercial.gov.uk|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref>

== Rochdale A.F.C ==
Crown Oil has been a [[English football sponsorship|sponsor]] of [[Rochdale A.F.C.]] since the 2013–14 season when the club was in [[EFL League Two]], when in May 2013, the company signed a front of shirt sponsorship.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rochdaleafc.co.uk/news/2013/may/sponsorship-announcement/|title=Sponsorship Announcement|website=rochdaleafc.co.uk|language=en-gb|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref> Rochdale achieved promotion to [[EFL League One]], and the sponsorship was seen as a success and was continued in 2014–15.

In August 2016, Crown Oil signed a five-year sponsorship deal with Rochdale A.F.C., and the club's stadium, then called the [[Spotland Stadium]], was renamed the Crown Oil Arena<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/rochdale-rename-spotland-part-new-11719694|title=Rochdale rename Spotland as part of new record-breaking sponsorship deal|date=8 August 2016|publisher=Manchester Evening News|access-date=8 August 2016}}</ref> as part of a 'record-breaking' 'six-figure' sponsorship deal for the club<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/rochdale-rename-spotland-part-new-11719694|title=Rochdale rename Spotland as part of new record-breaking sponsorhip deal|last=Slater|first=Chris|date=2016-08-08|website=men|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref> that included the stadium's naming rights.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/36987353|title=Rochdale: Spotland home ground renamed in six-figure sponsorship deal|date=2016-08-05|access-date=2019-10-15|language=en-GB}}</ref>

In June 2020, Crown Oil and Rochdale AFC extended their sponsorship agreement for a further six-years.<ref>{{Cite web|date=June 29, 2020|title=Crown Oil Sign Six-Year Sponsorship Extension With Dale|url=https://www.rochdaleafc.co.uk/news/2020/june/crownoilsponsorship/}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|date=June 30, 2020|title=Crown Oil extend sponsorship deal with Rochdale AFC|url=https://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/4/sport-news/135221/crown-oil-extend-sponsorship-deal-with-rochdale}}</ref>

== Rally driver sponsorship ==
Since 2015, Crown Oil has sponsored [[World Rally Championship|WRC]] rally driver, [[Gus Greensmith]] with logo placement on Greensmith's [[Ford Fiesta]], a livery sponsorship which is currently ongoing.

In 2015, Greensmith stated that Crown Oil has been a 'financial and emotional' supporter since as early as 2015.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.burytimes.co.uk/news/11785799.bury-racing-driver-set-to-star-in-high-octane-tv-show-alongside-idris-elba/|title=Bury racing driver set to star in high octane TV show alongside Idris Elba|website=Bury Times|language=en|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.gusgreensmith.com/sponsors/|title=Sponsors|website=Gus Greensmith {{!}} British Junior Rally Champion|language=en|access-date=2019-10-15}}</ref>

== Industries served ==
As with most fuel and lubricant suppliers, Crown Oil serves a range of industries that are reliant on [[mineral oil]]-based products for fuel, power and heat generating applications.

=== Power generation (red diesel) ===

* Construction sites ([[Engine-generator|diesel-powered electric generators]])
* Festivals
* Outdoor events

=== Off-road vehicle fuel (red diesel) ===

* Farming machinery (fuel for [[combine harvester]]s, [[tractor]]s)
* Construction sites (fuel for [[forklift]]s, [[Crane (machine)|cranes]])
* Sports ground maintenance ([[golf course]]s, [[football pitch]]es, [[cricket field]]s)

=== Road fuel (white diesel) ===

* Passenger cars
* Vans
* Trucks
* Buses
* Trains

=== Back-up power (red diesel) ===

* Data centres
* Hospitals
* Schools
* Hotels
* Office buildings
* Indoor event venues

=== Heating (red diesel and kerosene) ===

* Domestic heating for [[Central heating|home central heating]] systems (kerosene)
* Commercial heating (red diesel)

=== Marine ===

* [[Fuel oil|Bunker fuel]]
* Red diesel

=== Aviation (kerosene) ===

* [[Jet fuel]]

== Logos ==
<gallery>
<gallery>
Image:Old Crown Oil logo.jpg|Previous Logo of the Company
File:Old Crown Oil logo.jpg|Previous logo of the company
Image:Red Crown Oil Logo.JPG|Current Logo for Crown Oil Ltd.
File:Red Crown Oil Logo.JPG|Current logo of Crown Oil Ltd.
</gallery>
</gallery>


==References==
== References ==
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}


==External links==
== External links ==
* {{Official website|https://www.crownoil.co.uk/}}
* {{Official website|https://www.crownoil.co.uk/}}


[[Category:Companies based in Bury]]
[[Category:Companies based in Bury, Greater Manchester]]

Latest revision as of 10:25, 13 June 2024

For Crown Central Petroleum, see Crown Central Petroleum.

Crown Oil Ltd
Crown Oil
FormerlySilver Crown Oil Distributors
Company typePrivate
IndustryFuel distribution
Founded1947[1]
FounderHarry Greensmith
HeadquartersBury, Greater Manchester
Key people
Charles Greensmith, Matthew Greensmith (Managing Director)
Products
Revenue
  • Increase £197,500,000 (2019)
  • £144,600,000 (2018)
 (2019)
OwnerGreensmith family (100%)
Subsidiaries
  • Crown Oil Environmental
  • Speedy Fuels
  • Beesley Fuels
  • Crown Energy
  • Crown Gas & Power
Websitecrownoil.co.uk

Crown Oil Ltd, also trading as Crown Oil Fuels and Lubricants or simply Crown Oil, is a fuels and lubricants distribution company located in Bury, Greater Manchester, England. The fuel distributor specialises in national supply of diesel, gas oil, kerosene and lubricants among other fuels and oils to the commercial and domestic market in the United Kingdom.

Crown Oil has depots in six locations around the UK, including Bury, Birmingham, Iver, and three in Greater London with the Bury depot being the main depot that the fuel supplier operates from.[2]

History

[edit]

Crown Oil began trading in 1928 and was owned by Harry Greensmith, affectionately known as "Harry Lamp Oil".[3] Greensmith traded door-to-door from a wooden cart, providing household goods such as firelighters, candles, and lamp oil (kerosene). After World War II, Greensmith expanded the product range of the company to include the bulk supply of fuels and lubricants.

The name Silver Crown Oil Distributors[4][5] was used from around 1947.[6] The business was based in Heywood, Greater Manchester, England.

In 1959, Harry's only son, David Greensmith, joined the family business, and new premises were acquired in the Heap Bridge area of Heywood, where the company is currently located. The distribution of fuels and lubricants became the firm's primary business activity, with red diesel currently making up the majority of business. In 1977 the business was incorporated and the name changed to Crown Oil Limited.

The present head office, completed in 1990, is located at Bury in Greater Manchester.[7] The headquarters was named the 'Oil Centre'.

Crown Oil remains family-owned.[8] According to the company's history, in 1949, ownership passed from Harry to his son, David, and thereafter to his grandchildren Andrew, Matthew, and Abigail in 2007, following David's premature death in 2007.[9] Matthew Greensmith is the current managing director.

Environmental commitments

[edit]

Crown Oil Environmental was set up to assist with the environmental hazards that are caused by fuels – such as oil spills and microbial contamination. Environmental collects waste oils and recycles these oils for re-use. It also disposes of waste diesel in line with regulations. Tank cleaning is also undertaken in order to prevent mechanical failure caused by contaminated diesel.

As part of the company's work towards environmental responsibility, all delivery mileage is carbon offset to keep CO2 emissions to a minimum.

In 2019, Crown Oil committed further to reducing fossil fuels' environmental impact by turning its attention to hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO fuel), when the company invested £4 million in stocks of the renewable fuel, making it reportedly one of the only suppliers in the UK with a stock of the fuel.[10] HVO fuel is said to be useful for industries such as farming,[11] commercial vehicles[12] and data centres[13] to reduce their carbon emissions.

Other CO2-reducing fuels supplied are biodiesel and CHP biofuel.

Expansion and acquisitions

[edit]

Crown Oil has expanded its business over time through the acquisition of other fuel suppliers:

  • In 1990, Crown Oil's headquarters expanded to include Crown House. In 2007 planning permission was granted for further expansion, in what would become the Crown Point building.[14]
  • In 2012, the company opened a depot in Iver, Buckinghamshire to service West London businesses as well as the domestic market in the area, and introduced the Speedy Fuels brand to service this area.[15] Additionally, the business acquired Cooke Fuels, who had fallen into administration.[16]
  • Crown Oil also acquired fuel supplier Ingoe Oils.[17]
  • 2018 saw the double acquisition of Birmingham-based Beesley Fuels and Birlem Fuels through the Speedy Fuels brand.[18]
  • Crown Oil also expanded into other energy-related industries with the launch of Crown Oil Environmental, the waste fuel collection arm of the business; Crown Energy, a utility installation service; Crown Gas and Power, an energy supplier. These businesses make up the Crown Oil group of companies.
  • 2020 saw the most recent acquisition, that of Stockport-based Star Oil and this purchase meant that 11 of 12 Star Oil staff and a fleet of eight vehicles, joined Crown Oil, the only exception being a director.[19]
  • As a result of expansion, the Crown Oil fleet of tankers rose from 25 vehicles in 2016 to reportedly 53 in 2018.[20] In 2019, that in creased to 58 tankers, placing the company's fleet among the ten largest fuel oil distributor fleets in the UK.[21] In 2020, as a result of the Star Oil acquisition, that fleet increased by a further eight vehicles, taking the total to 66.

Subsidiaries

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In total, the Crown Oil group of companies is made up of nine fuel suppliers, energy suppliers and utility installation services. Around 1,500 people are employed across the group.[22]

  • Crown Oil Ltd
  • Crown Oil Environmental
  • Speedy Fuels
  • Beesley Fuels
  • Cooke Fuels
  • Birlem Oil
  • Ingoe Oils
  • Crown Gas and Power
  • Crown Energy
  • Star Oil

Awards

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Crown Oil Ltd has earned multiple recognitions over the years.

  • In May 2008, Crown Oil was listed on Crain's: Manchester Top 200 list of companies, taking the 60th position.[23]
  • In 2012, Crown Oil won a HazardX award for its environmental contribution to the industry.[24]
  • In 2014, Crown Oil finished 163rd in The Sunday Times Grant Thornton Top Track 250 league table. This ranks Britain's mid-market growth private companies with the largest sales.[25]
  • In February, as a result of company expansion, the fuel supplier qualified for a spot as one of the UK mainland, Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland's Top 20 fuel distributors.[26]
  • In May 2019, Crown Oil was named in the 'Ward Hadaway Greater Manchester Fastest 50 Companies'.[27]
  • In 2019, Crown Oil ranked 133rd in The Sunday Times Grant Thornton Top Track 250 league table, the fifth time it qualified for the league table.[28][29][30][31][32]

As a UK based lubricants blender and supplier, Crown Oil is part of the UKLA (United Kingdom Lubricants Association) and UEIL. Crown Oil is also registered with Oil Firing Technical Association (OFTEC) and is certified as a Crown Commercial Service supplier.[33]

Rochdale A.F.C

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Crown Oil has been a sponsor of Rochdale A.F.C. since the 2013–14 season when the club was in EFL League Two, when in May 2013, the company signed a front of shirt sponsorship.[34] Rochdale achieved promotion to EFL League One, and the sponsorship was seen as a success and was continued in 2014–15.

In August 2016, Crown Oil signed a five-year sponsorship deal with Rochdale A.F.C., and the club's stadium, then called the Spotland Stadium, was renamed the Crown Oil Arena[35] as part of a 'record-breaking' 'six-figure' sponsorship deal for the club[36] that included the stadium's naming rights.[37]

In June 2020, Crown Oil and Rochdale AFC extended their sponsorship agreement for a further six-years.[38][39]

Rally driver sponsorship

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Since 2015, Crown Oil has sponsored WRC rally driver, Gus Greensmith with logo placement on Greensmith's Ford Fiesta, a livery sponsorship which is currently ongoing.

In 2015, Greensmith stated that Crown Oil has been a 'financial and emotional' supporter since as early as 2015.[40][41]

Industries served

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As with most fuel and lubricant suppliers, Crown Oil serves a range of industries that are reliant on mineral oil-based products for fuel, power and heat generating applications.

Power generation (red diesel)

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Off-road vehicle fuel (red diesel)

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Road fuel (white diesel)

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  • Passenger cars
  • Vans
  • Trucks
  • Buses
  • Trains

Back-up power (red diesel)

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  • Data centres
  • Hospitals
  • Schools
  • Hotels
  • Office buildings
  • Indoor event venues

Heating (red diesel and kerosene)

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Marine

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Aviation (kerosene)

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Logos

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  • Previous logo of the company
    Previous logo of the company
  • Current logo of Crown Oil Ltd.
    Current logo of Crown Oil Ltd.

References

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  1. ^ "About Crown Oil".
  2. ^ Greer, Stuart (8 October 2018). "Fuel distribution group Crown Oil secures double acquisition". men. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  3. ^ "About Crown Oil – Nationwide Fuels, Oils & Lubricants Supplier". Crown Oil. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  4. ^ http://epr.ofgem.gov.uk/index.php?pk=folder130197, Office of Gas and Electricity Markets, Public register, Crown Oil, Retrieved September 19, 2010.
  5. ^ "CROWN OIL LIMITED – Overview (free company information from Companies House)". beta.companieshouse.gov.uk. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  6. ^ "About Crown Oil".
  7. ^ http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=The+Oil+Centre,+Bury,+BL9+7HY&jsv=139e&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=11.540145,28.125&ie=UTF8&latlng=53590996,-2268705,12581746867453316788&ei=u11GSdRlpOTbAo7HqO8O&cd=1 Google Maps, Retrieved September 19, 2010.
  8. ^ "Persons with significant control". beta.companieshouse.gov.uk. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  9. ^ "About Crown Oil – Nationwide Fuels, Oils & Lubricants Supplier". Crown Oil. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  10. ^ "Crown Oil invests £4 million in HVO supply capacity". Bioenergy International. 27 August 2019. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  11. ^ "Biofuels promise to reduce farmers' carbon footprint". Farmers Weekly. 8 August 2019. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  12. ^ "Fuelling the pursuit of green fleets". www.commercialfleet.org. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  13. ^ "HVO biofuel: The future of data centre emergency power fuelling". www.electricalreview.co.uk. 9 September 2019. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  14. ^ News, Manchester Evening (30 May 2007). "£1m bid to create 70 new jobs". men. Retrieved 15 October 2019. {{cite web}}: |last= has generic name (help)
  15. ^ News, Manchester Evening (21 December 2012). "Crown Oil opens new depot to target London". men. Retrieved 15 October 2019. {{cite web}}: |last= has generic name (help)
  16. ^ "Crown Oil announces acquisition of Samuel Cooke". Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  17. ^ "Terms & Conditions". Ingoe Oils. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  18. ^ Greer, Stuart (8 October 2018). "Fuel distribution group Crown Oil secures double acquisition". men. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  19. ^ Daniel, Hopkins (28 October 2020). "Crown Oil strengthens brand after acquiring new oil supplier". Bury Times. Retrieved 28 October 2020.
  20. ^ "Top Fuel Oil Distributors and Logistics". fueloilnews.co.uk. 11 April 2012. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  21. ^ "Top Fuel Distributors and Logistics".
  22. ^ "Deals for Crown Oil as it continues on the acquisition trail". www.bqlive.co.uk. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  23. ^ "Archived copy" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 26 July 2008. Retrieved 15 December 2008.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link) Crain's List, Manchester 200, Crown Oil Ltd., Retrieved September 19, 2010.
  24. ^ "Recognition for Crown Oil's environmental contribution". Fuel Oil News. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  25. ^ TWK. "Fast Track". Fast Track. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  26. ^ "Top Fuel Distributors". Fuel Oil News. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  27. ^ "Greater Manchester Fastest 50 companies 2019". Ward Hadaway. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  28. ^ "Crown Oil – Sunday Times Grant Thornton Top track 250". Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  29. ^ TWK. "Fast Track". Fast Track. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  30. ^ TWK. "Fast Track". Fast Track. Archived from the original on 15 October 2019. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  31. ^ TWK. "Fast Track". Fast Track. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  32. ^ TWK. "Fast Track". Fast Track. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  33. ^ "CROWN OIL LIMITED – CCS". www.crowncommercial.gov.uk. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  34. ^ "Sponsorship Announcement". rochdaleafc.co.uk. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  35. ^ "Rochdale rename Spotland as part of new record-breaking sponsorship deal". Manchester Evening News. 8 August 2016. Retrieved 8 August 2016.
  36. ^ Slater, Chris (8 August 2016). "Rochdale rename Spotland as part of new record-breaking sponsorhip deal". men. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  37. ^ "Rochdale: Spotland home ground renamed in six-figure sponsorship deal". 5 August 2016. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  38. ^ "Crown Oil Sign Six-Year Sponsorship Extension With Dale". 29 June 2020.
  39. ^ "Crown Oil extend sponsorship deal with Rochdale AFC". 30 June 2020.
  40. ^ "Bury racing driver set to star in high octane TV show alongside Idris Elba". Bury Times. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
  41. ^ "Sponsors". Gus Greensmith | British Junior Rally Champion. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
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