Industry royalty Sir Gerald Ronson collected a Lifetime Achievement Award to a moving standing ovation last night at the Forecourt Trader Awards.
It was the first time in the 30-year history of the event that the Rontec boss had attended, joined by his wife Dame Gail Ronson and one of his four daughters, Lisa.
In an emotional speech he told the packed room of 800 guests that he felt humbled to receive the accolade after 60 years in the industry, during which he has bought and sold more than 1,000 forecourts.
The award, presented at London’s Park Plaza, recognised Sir Gerald as a pioneer in the industry, bringing self-service pumps, cut-price fuel, forecourt canopies and loyalty schemes to UK forecourts.
He said: “I never set out thinking I’d end up standing here receiving an award like this. I’ve simply always enjoyed what I do and fortunately I’ve had the opportunity to keep doing it for a very long time – in fact, 60 years.”
He went on: “As you know, the garages started out as my Saturday job, although I’m not sure ‘job’ is the right word. It has become a big part of my life.
“To receive this award is a wonderful way to recognise those 60 years and a reminder of just how fortunate I’ve been to do something I really enjoy, alongside an excellent team.”
Sir Gerald now has around 270 sites, making Rontec the UK’s second biggest independent forecourt chain after MFG. He continues to command respect in the industry, with his company winning two further accolades on the night.
His Magor forecourt in Gwent toppled Shell’s Cobham Services from holding the best motorway services site: a title the oil giant had held for the past seven years. And his Billingshurst forecourt won best site over 4mlpa in London and the South East.
As well as having a significant international property portfolio, Sir Gerald continues an ambition to further grow his forecourt business.
