Rontec Investments is planning to sell 18 petrol stations to Sainsbury’s, which would bring the supermarket operator’s network of forecourts to 284. A Sainsbury’s spokesperson said: “The decision by Rontec to sell these sites has provided an excellent opportunity for Sainsbury’s to add to its fuel business and further extend its convenience estate.”

Phillip Bell-Brown, Sainsbury’s director of property development, said: “The acquisitions provide a unique opportunity to support our plans for growth and to extend the reach of the Sainsbury’s brand, bringing the associated benefits of new job opportunities for local people. We are looking forward to welcoming our new colleagues to Sainsbury’s.”

The proposed acquisition has been submitted to the Office of Fair Trading, who will consider whether it will result in any significant lessening of competition.

Rontec staff will have the opportunity to transfer to Sainsbury’s under TUPE regulations, the supermarket confirmed.