Up to 20 new jobs could be created after the long-standing future of one of Moray’s leading businesses was settled this week.
Fuel suppliers Gleaner Oils has been completely taken over by Jane Scott and her husband Stephen. The pair already owned 50% of the business which was started by Mrs Scott’s father – now they have purchased the remaining 50% from her uncle, Brian Young.
Mr Young put his share of the business up for sale two years ago – now his niece and her husband have decided that it would be better if the business remained entirely in the family.
Gleaner is a major fuel supplier in Moray and throughout the north of Scotland, operating 62 petrol stations. Now the owners are promising to expand the business which currently employs 180 people.
Mr Scott said: “We decided we were more comfortable with continuing the family business ourselves. It was a fairly recent decision but the sale process went on for quite a while.
“Whether it is the best option for us we will wait and see, but it is the best option for the employees and pensioners of the business. We have known the people for so long and thought it was appropriate.”
A three-year expansion plan for Gleaner Oils includes plans to recruit 20 additional staff in a business that saw turnover reach £125million last year.
Ms Scott said: “We have enjoyed consistent growth over the years and strategically are very well placed to take advantage of new opportunities.”