Commercial Fuel Solutions acquired by New Era Energy

A leading UK provider of refuelling infrastructure is “immensely grateful” to KBS Corporate for its work in overseeing the company’s sale.

The “world-class expertise” of Commercial Fuel Solutions (CFS) was a major factor of its appeal to New Era Energy, creating a UK powerhouse of fuelling and lubricant solutions focused on delivering exceptional customer service, sustainability and growth.

Luke Rae, KBS Corporate Deal Executive, advised on the transaction, which has resulted in New Era Energy’s offering being enhanced by the addition of CFS’ industry-leading hydrogen and low carbon AdBlue expertise.

“We are immensely grateful to the team at KBS Corporate for their outstanding professionalism, dedication and expertise throughout the sale process,” said Robin Futcher, founder of CFS.

“Their strategic insight and commitment to aligning us with the right partner were invaluable, making every step of this journey seamless and collaborative.

“Thanks to their support, we were able to join forces with New Era Energy, whose values and commitment to sustainability resonate perfectly with our vision.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better team to guide us, and we are thrilled with the outcome they helped us achieve.”

Founded in 2007 and based in Southampton, CFS has established itself as the leading independent supplier of AdBlue, a diesel exhaust fluid that helps to reduce harmful engine emissions.

New Era Energy already has the UK’s largest distribution network of renewable fuels, and customers of both companies will now benefit from access to a wider range of products and services from the newly formed organisation.

“We are delighted to have found the right partner in New Era Energy, a company with a long history of innovation and world-leading expertise,” added Robin Futcher.

“We were impressed from the first meeting by their commitment to emissions reduction and sustainability and felt the Commercial Fuel Solutions business is the perfect fit for them.

“The future of more sustainable fuelling solutions is bright with Commercial Fuel Solutions as part of the New Era Energy family.”

Based in Harlow, Essex, New Era Energy was founded in 1919, originally as a lubricant supplier, before specialising in fuels as the market changed.

In 2023, the company rebranded as New Era Energy to reflect its transition to a sustainability focused business, and in 2024 received significant equity investment from Hanover Investors to deliver on ambitious growth plans and expand its environmentally focused offering.

“Acquiring Commercial Fuel Solutions is an exciting development for New Era Energy and a key ingredient of our ongoing transition to a more sustainable future,” said James Hunt, CEO of New Era Energy.

“We will benefit hugely from CFS’ world-class expertise in handling hydrogen as a fuel and its experience as the UK’s leading independent distributor of AdBlue.

“New Era Energy has constantly innovated and adapted to ever-changing market conditions during its 105-year history and we intend to continue our growth.

“Customers of both brands will have continuity, continuing to work with the same team but with access to a broader range of products and services.”

KBS Corporate’s Luke Rae was delighted to bring a successful conclusion to a transaction process which he confirmed would benefit him for future deals within this industry.

“This was a very rewarding experience educationally due to the complex technical nature of the sector,” explained Luke.

“The client and buyer have been fantastic people to work with and I wish them all the very best for the future.”