Zuber invests in Duckhams with plans to expand classic brand into UK forecourts

Duckhams’ CEO Mike Bewsey with Zuber Issa

Zuber Issa has taken an undisclosed stake in Duckhams and plans to relaunch the 126-year-old motor oil brand on the forecourt market through his 150-strong EG On The Move chain.

It comes nine years after investors led by chairman Jabir Sheth revived the Duckhams name after its divestment by BP, which had originally bought the brand in 1969. Since then, Duckhams products have been introduced in more than 25 countries. However, its presence in the UK has been limited largely to trade outlets such as Screwfix and the Rapid motor factor network.

EG On The Move says Duckhams’ focus will now be to “strengthen presence in the UK market by tapping into the brand’s deep-rooted British customer loyalty, while expanding distribution channels across Europe, Asia and the Middle East. “This investment marks a significant step in revitalising and expanding the legacy of one of the most trusted names in lubrication technology,” it adds.

Founded by Alexander Duckham in 1899, the brand at its peak had a presence in more than 100 international markets. Duckhams was also a sponsor of major racing teams and events and was associated with Formula One drivers such as James Hunt and Nigel Mansell.

Mike Bewsey, global CEO of Duckhams, says Issa’s equity investment “signals strong confidence in the Duckhams brand, its leadership, and its long-term vision”. He adds: “Zuber is a very successful entrepreneur and has a proven track record and strategic insights that will be invaluable as we scale our business in the UK and globally.”

Source: Duckhams

Duckhams’ products will be available to other UK forecourts

Issa says that Duckhams is a “brand with an extraordinary legacy and immense potential for growth”, adding: “By investing in innovation, sustainability, and strategic market expansion, we can ensure Duckhams can establish itself to be a leader in the lubricant sector for years to come.”

EG On The Move says the injection of funds will help fund research and development into “next generation fluids” including products tailored for the electric vehicle market, as well as expansion into other sectors such as industrial and marine. Duckhams is also “actively exploring” acquisition opportunities.

This is one of Issa’s most significant investments since he sold his stake in Asda to TDR Capital in 2024, using the proceeds to buy the UK forecourts still owned by EG Group, the business he started with his brother Mohsin. He has since expanded the chain, branded as EG On The Move, to around 150 locations.

There are plans to make Duckhams available to other forecourt operators.

Source: www.forecourttrader.co.uk

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