Jet has responded to negative feedback about its alleged failure to plan for the expected tanker driver strike by opening up communications with dealers.

In a letter to all Jet retailers, Stefan Wulkan, manager of UK & Ireland Marketing at ConocoPhillips, said: “ConocoPhillips has ensured that all our terminals have remained open and available for product despite the strike; however, we understand that the strike has made it difficult for both collections and deliveries.

“At this point, based on our discussions with Wincanton, and the public statements of Unite, we are very confused as to the reasons for the strike and what, if anything, can be done to bring Unite drivers back to work. We are not directly involved in any dispute between the Unite drivers and the Wincanton company, but our aspiration is that this dispute is resolved by the parties as quickly as possible.”

ConocoPhillips stressed that although it has a long-term contract with Wincanton for delivered service which uses the Unite drivers, it is Wincanton’s responsibility and obligation to manage the terms and conditions of these drivers.

“We want the parties to resolve the issues between themselves quickly and resume your delivered service. We are working hard to bring the strike to an end but any issues must be resolved directly between Wincanton and Unite and we would hope that they work out these differences swiftly,” Wulkan added.

“In the meantime, we apologise for the significant disruption that we know this dispute between Wincanton and Unite places upon your business and we will keep you informed of progress as information becomes available to us. If you have any further queries, please make contact with your regional manager.”

Related articles:

>> No reason for tanker driver strike says Wincanton boss

>> Frantic day for Jet dealers as strike hits fuel deliveries

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