The petrol station sector has no shortage of entrepreneurs, leaders and visionaries, but we are on the search for that one standout individual who has made their particular mark on the industry for Forecourt Trader of the Year’s Special Recognition Award 2026.
We are asking readers to send us suggestions of who deserves this highly-coveted award: someone who has inspired, motivated, or perhaps disrupted the world of forecourt retailing.
Previous winners include Sej Sejpal, the founder of Platinum Retail in 2025; Tom Highland, managing director of Highland Group in 2024; and Rob Exelby, managing director of Exelby Services, the year before that.
Sejpal, who has dedicated almost 50 years to the industry, says that seven months after receiving the accolade he still feels “incredibly honoured”. He adds: “To be recognised by colleagues, customers and peers is something I will never take for granted.
“What makes me most proud is not just the award itself, but what it represents – hard work, resilience, strong relationships and a genuine passion for retailing and serving communities.
“The forecourt sector has changed massively over the years, but one thing that has never changed for me is the drive to keep improving, keep evolving and keep giving customers the best experience possible.”
The winner will be chosen by our 12 judges, based on recommendations from readers, and announced at the Forecourt Trader Awards, sponsored by Booker Retail Partners, which take place at London’s Park Plaza Westminster on Thursday, October 8.
Please send your suggestions to Erin.Thompson@wrbm.com
