Our strategy is to deliver total shareholder returns by the continued profitable development of our businesses through a combination of organic growth, capital investment and selective acquisitions.

We operate in large stable markets which we understand well. Our businesses have scale, good market positions, and are profitable and cash generative.

Understanding our markets
In today's economic and financial environment the experience and expertise of our staff is critical. This is illustrated with our 942 staff having in excess of seven years average service in a Group which has doubled in size in the last five years.

Excellence in customer service
Across the Group customer service is the number one priority. Whether it is delivering in excess of 99.5% service to supermarkets in food, reaching nine out of ten callers who have run out of fuel on the same day or delivering to farm within 24 hours when needed by farmers, the business strives to provide the highest quality of service in all areas.

Building on a strong platform
The Group has established a strong platform with strong profit development and cash conversion which has reduced debt to less than 1 x EBITDA. Competitive long-term banking facilities and a solid asset base will support the Group's development. The acquisition of Evesons, the largest acquisition for the Group to date, highlights the development potential.

¹From continuing operations only, excluding Garden Centres disposed of in October 2008.