Merridale Ltd, a UK-based specialist in fuel management solutions, has developed a suite of systems designed to make this process simpler and more effective. At the core of this offering is the Merridale MX range of fuel management terminals, supported by the company’s powerful web-based reporting platform, FuelWorks. Together, they provide a fully integrated, end-to-end solution for monitoring and managing on-site fuelling – helping fleet managers generate the data and evidence required to meet the various levels of FORS accreditation.

The Merridale MX range includes both the MX-I, which combines a fuel pump and management terminal in a single robust unit, and the MX-M, a standalone fuel management terminal for use with existing pumps. These systems enable secure, authorised refuelling with automatic driver and vehicle identification, ensuring that every litre of fuel is accurately recorded and attributed. Designed with fleet operators in mind, the terminals are built to be durable, tamper-resistant and easy to use, even in demanding depot environments.

Also part of the MX product family are the MX-P, a standalone diesel pump designed for high-throughput commercial applications, and the MX-T, a tank management terminal for secure, automated tank filling and stock level control. While these units serve more specific roles, they integrate seamlessly with the wider Merridale system and contribute to a complete, site-wide fuel management solution — particularly for larger or multi-fuel sites looking to futureproof operations.

All fuelling data captured by the MX terminals is instantly synchronised with Merridale FuelWorks – a cloud-based reporting suite that gives operators access to a wide range of analytical tools and reports. From individual vehicle MPG and fuel cost analysis to CO₂ output and idling reports, FuelWorks provides the visibility and insight needed to make informed decisions. Data can be accessed from anywhere, exported for audit purposes, and used to identify inefficiencies or concerning trends within the fleet.

This level of transparency is particularly valuable when working towards FORS accreditation. FORS Bronze requires operators to monitor fuel consumption across their fleet and demonstrate a commitment to reducing environmental impact. Merridale’s systems make this process straightforward by delivering detailed consumption records and baseline data for ongoing performance comparisons. At the Silver and Gold levels, where requirements become more stringent, operators must show ongoing MPG improvements and active fuel-saving strategies – both of which are supported by FuelWorks’ in-depth reporting and alerting features.

FORS also places emphasis on having robust, verifiable systems in place to underpin continuous improvement. By offering a digital, tamper-proof audit trail of every fuel transaction, Merridale helps fleets maintain a clear evidencing strategy that stands up to scrutiny. The ability to track individual vehicle performance over time also supports driver training programmes, route planning optimisation, and wider sustainability initiatives – all of which are beneficial not just for compliance, but for the bottom line.

What sets Merridale apart is their singular focus on the needs of commercial fleets. With more than 25 years’ experience in the industry, their systems are designed and built in the UK, with full service and support provided by an experienced technical team. This end-to-end control ensures reliability, long-term value, and compatibility with the unique operational pressures faced by transport operators.

In a time when environmental accountability and operational efficiency are more important than ever, tools that simplify compliance while driving performance are a worthwhile investment. For fleet managers aiming to achieve or maintain FORS accreditation, Merridale’s MX range and FuelWorks platform offer a practical, proven solution that turns fuel data into compliance-ready intelligence.

For more information on how Merridale can support your fleet’s FORS journey, call 01902 350700 or visit www.merridale.co.uk.

"John and I founded Merridale nearly thirty years ago, and as we now begin to approach retirement age, it has become imperative for us to make provision for the long-term future of the business, our employees, and our customers. We are delighted that in Teqnion we have found a company who will respect our legacy, and protect the integrity and reputation of the business, and the Merridale brand in the years to come."

Established in 1994, Merridale Ltd has grown from a modest operation into one of the UK’s foremost manufacturers of fuel management systems, fuel pumps, and tank management equipment.

Headquartered in Wolverhampton, a historic hub of British industry, the company has built a reputation for designing and producing robust, reliable solutions tailored to the needs of fleet operators, with systems installed at over 5,000 sites across the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands, and the Netherlands.
For co-founders Paul Ledbury and John Russell, who enlisted KBS Corporate to manage the sale, this acquisition represents the culmination of three decades of dedication.

"John and I founded Merridale nearly thirty years ago, and as we now begin to approach retirement age, it has become imperative for us to make provision for the long-term future of the business, our employees, and our customers. We are delighted that in Teqnion we have found a company who will respect our legacy, and protect the integrity and reputation of the business, and the Merridale brand in the years to come. We shall continue to work in the business to effect a smooth transition in ownership, and support the business as it moves forward." says Paul at Merridale.

Teqnion AB, founded in 2006 and based in Solna, Sweden, operates as an industrial conglomerate with a clear mission: to grow through the acquisition of profitable, niche-focused companies while fostering their development under an active ownership model. With a portfolio spanning industries such as laboratory equipment, electrical systems, and design engineering, Teqnion AB has steadily expanded its footprint across the Nordic region and beyond. The purchase of Merridale follows a string of UK acquisitions brokered by KBS Corporate since May 2023, including Stanwell Group, Surge Protection Devices, and Awarded 2U, among others.

Johan Steene, CEO of Teqnion AB, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “We are delighted to welcome the Merridale team to the Teqnion AB family. Precise fuel management is essential for a successful and sustainable business, and Paul, John, and their colleagues have the perfect system to make it happen.” This acquisition aligns with Teqnion’s strategy of investing in companies with strong market positions and untapped potential, allowing them to thrive within a broader corporate framework.

The sale, overseen by KBS Corporate’s Associate Corporate Director George Barnes, was a smooth process praised by all parties involved. Barnes congratulated Ledbury and Russell on their successful exit, noting the pleasure of working with them and their solicitor, Hitesh Punjani of Keelys, as well as Teqnion’s CXO, Daniel Zhang.

The acquisition is effective immediately; however, the previous owners, Paul and John will continue to run the company as they wind down to retirement.

Find more information on both companies at www.merridale.co.uk and www.teqnion.se.

"Andrew has been an anchor of Merridale’s success throughout his time with us."

During his tenure, Andrew’s commitment to excellence was evident in every project he undertook. As Health and Safety Manager, he implemented robust safety protocols that not only ensured compliance but also fostered a culture of care and responsibility across Merridale. His proactive approach and attention to detail earned him the respect and trust of colleagues at all levels.

In his subsequent role as Operations Manager, Andrew’s strategic vision and hands-on leadership were instrumental in optimising processes and supporting Merridale’s growth. His ability to balance operational efficiency with team collaboration created a positive and productive work environment, leaving a lasting impact on the company’s operations.

“Andrew has been an anchor of Merridale’s success throughout his time with us.” said Paul Ledbury, Chief Executive Officer at Merridale Ltd. “His professionalism, engineering expertise, and unwavering dedication have left an indelible mark on our team and our business. He had a wealth of knowledge, a quiet and calm demeanour and a practical approach to things, which made him a pleasure to work alongside.”

As Andrew steps into this new chapter, Merridale Ltd extends its heartfelt thanks for his remarkable service and wishes him endless happiness, relaxation, and adventure in retirement.
Merridale’s Chief Technical Officer, John Russell said “He will be greatly missed around here. I wish him all the best for his retirement in Spain but can’t help wishing he wasn’t leaving. While we’re sad to see him go, we’re incredibly grateful for his contributions and wish him a joyful and well-deserved retirement.”

The family-founded company established in 1972 by brothers John and Robin Huxley and now ran by John’s son, Andrew, specialise in a wide range of precast concrete products, but are renowned for its innovative "Star Performer" block—a sustainable, multi-purpose solution that uses recycled aggregates and 24% less material than traditional solid blocks.

We’ve had a Merridale system in place since 2001 and never had any real problems with it in over twenty years. So, when it naturally became time to update the system, we knew we were sticking with Merridale.

In recent years, Besblock has prioritised sustainability, integrating green technologies into its operations. A state-of-the-art biomass boiler, powered by waste wood, and a large solar PV array have significantly reduced its carbon footprint, aligning with its goal to become a carbon-neutral manufacturer. This commitment caught the attention of Aggregate Industries, a member of the Holcim Group, which acquired Besblock in May 2023, further enhancing its reach and capabilities.

With two manufacturing facilities in Telford, the company produces approximately 1.7 million square meters of building blocks annually, catering to projects from hospitals and schools to housing developments and sports venues. Their vast fleet of vehicles require the very best equipment and innovative software to run effectively and efficiently.

Mervyn Smith of Besblock (Holcin) said “We’ve had a Merridale system in place since 2001 and never had any real problems with it in over twenty years. So, when it naturally became time to update the system, we knew we were sticking with Merridale.”

The upgrade, which saw an old Merridale Auditor FS replaced by a fully integrated pump and management system with the Merridale MX-I, also included a move from Merridale’s older software, FuelFX, to their newer and better performing web-based package, FuelWorks.

Merridale’s web-based FuelWorks reporting software is the software of choice when it comes to gathering, managing and reporting accurate fuelling data to fleet operators in the UK. With FuelWorks being accessible through any standard web browser, the flexibility and accessibility enjoyed by the end user is enhanced. There is no need for software to be installed onto office computers and the customer can avoid extensive training, security, and backup issues.

“The software is very easy to use, I don’t think I needed any training at all really. Merridale helped set everything up and are there to support whenever we need but it’s so straight forward that I was able to get to grips with it on my own pretty quickly.”

Because Merridale’s FuelWorks software has been designed and developed in-house by Merridale, it is often updated and improved to ensure that customers can rely on a current and capable service. Through listening to customer requirements, Merridale have implemented several key features to help make the fuel management reporting process easier for the end user.

For example, Merridale have many customers who are FORS members and are required to produce specific environmental impact information across their vehicle fleet as part of their membership. Merridale have developed their software with the ability to automatically produce, schedule and email these necessary reports to anyone that needs them, including exception reports to help identify rogue performing vehicles.

“We are required to send reports to multiple people at the end of each month, so not only do I benefit from seeing live data whenever I login to check but I also get a massive helping hand from FuelWorks when it automatically generates and sends the more detailed reports each month for me. It knows exactly what we want to know and is sent straight to my inbox for when I need it.”

With scheduled reporting, users no longer need to access the software to run reports every time they need them. Merridale will work with the customer during setup to ensure the correct settings and parameters are present within the software. From there, the customer can add any user with an email address to automatically receive a report weekly, monthly or however often they need the information.

To find out how Merridale FuelWorks could benefit your company, contact Merridale on 01902 350700 or visit www.merridale.co.uk.

The Made In Britain scheme is an organisation dedicated to promoting and supporting British manufacturing. By uniting companies that design and produce goods in the UK, it provides a recognisable mark of authenticity—the Made In Britain logo—that helps buyers and consumers, both domestically and internationally, identify products crafted with British expertise. For businesses like Merridale, membership offers a platform to showcase their contributions to the UK economy, celebrate their heritage, and tap into a growing demand for locally made goods.

Founded in 1994, Merridale Ltd has established itself as a trusted name in the commercial fuelling industry. Specialising in fuel management and monitoring systems, fuel pumps, and tank gauges, the company serves a wide range of clients, from small fleet operators to large enterprises with multiple depots. With systems installed at over 5,000 sites across the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands, and the Netherlands, Merridale’s equipment supports over 400,000 vehicles daily. Known for durability and precision, its products are designed to last at least a decade, adhering to stringent ATEX standards and backed by long-term support.

This legacy of quality and reliability aligns seamlessly with the values of the Made In Britain scheme, making Merridale a natural fit for membership.
By joining Made In Britain, Merridale gains the right to display the scheme’s iconic logo on its products, marketing materials, and digital platforms. This badge of honour reinforces the company’s reputation as a high-quality British manufacturer, distinguishing it in a competitive global market. The Made In Britain scheme opens doors to buyers who prioritise British-made goods, both at home and abroad. For customers, this milestone is a clear signal that Merridale’s products are crafted with the expertise and craftsmanship synonymous with UK production.

However, displaying the Made In Britain logo is more than a symbolic achievement for Merridale Ltd—it’s a strategic move that enhances its market position and celebrates its identity. As the company continues to innovate and expand, this membership will serve as both a foundation and a springboard, amplifying its reach and reinforcing its values. For a business that has fueled the UK’s transport sector for three decades, this is a fitting tribute to its past and a bold step toward a future built on British ingenuity.

To find out how a Merridale complete fuel management system could benefit your company, contact Merridale on 01902 350 700 or visit www.merridale.co.uk, or for more on the Made In Britain scheme visit www.madeinbritain.org.

Built to be the complete solution in commercial fuelling and designed to meet strict ATEX standards, the MX-I integrates the intelligence and control of Merridale’s MX-M fuel management system with the reliable performance of the MX-P pump in a single cabinet. Having both systems in one robust unit makes it an ideal and cost-effective solution for fleet operators with limited space.

“We’ve been very happy with our Merridale pump and it’s reporting software! Before having a Merridale system installed, we relied completely on fuel cards and the limited data we were able to gather from those and any paper receipts."

As part of the upgrade, JPB chose to also use Merridale’s web-based reporting software, FuelWorks. With this, users can access vital data from any internet-connected device to view real-time information and export automated spreadsheets. Designed in-house by Merridale after many years consultation with fleet operators, the software allows users to monitor fuel usage and efficiency, show stock and predict restocking requirements, and evaluate environmental impacts, therefore, enabling users to adhere to FORS reporting standards.

“We’ve been very happy with our Merridale pump and it’s reporting software! Before having a Merridale system installed, we relied completely on fuel cards and the limited data we were able to gather from those and any paper receipts. Having our own storage tank and pump fitted on site has made everything much more efficient and cost-effective, and Merridale’s FuelWorks software has enabled us to spot faults or areas in which we could do better.” explained Kevin Ashton of JPB Utilities.

FuelWorks has become increasingly popular with Merridale’s current customers. Due to its ability to be accessed through a web browser on any device FuelWorks gives the user complete flexibility and accessibility, eliminating the need for the software to be installed on a limited number of nominated devices.

When asked about JPB’s transition to FuelWorks, Kevin said “It didn’t take much for me to know my way around the Merridale FuelWorks software. It’s very easy to use and the layout is clean and simple. After a short initial training session, I’d got to grips with it and have enjoyed in-depth monthly reports on my diesel and AdBlue ever since!”

To find out how a Merridale fuel and tank management system could benefit your company, contact Merridale at 01902 350 700 or visit www.merridale.co.uk.

Marcus, who leads operations for the internet provider said “We needed a temporary solution as one of our yards is quite a way away from anything else and we haven’t been able to supply electrical mains there yet. Merridale have been brilliant in accommodating this and have fitted a solar and battery operated management system in place for now, which they can then adjust to connect to the mains as we progress with the project.”

“The transition has been very smooth, and the new system has lessened my workload tenfold. We’re getting so much more out of it than we could have hoped..."

The company now have Merridale’s MX-M fuel management systems working in tandem with each other across all of their sites. Each MX-M fuel management system gives fleet operators the control of up to four pumps with several options available to allow access to refuelling. They also have the option to unlock the benefits of Merridale FuelWorks web-based software to measure fuel usage, vehicle performance, driver efficiency and environmental impact.

“The transition has been very smooth, and the new system has lessened my workload tenfold. We’re getting so much more out of it than we could have hoped. I now get monthly reports automatically downloaded for me, which is fantastic, where I can see all of our usage and refuelling data as well as any deliveries and individual vehicle and driver reports.”

The software has been designed in-house by Merridale to be as user-friendly as possible, without sacrificing any functionality, and allows multiple users to report on and monitor their environmental impact, fuel usage, costs, and vehicle performance across multiple sites or tanks.

The ability of FuelWorks to be accessed through a web browser on any device gives the user complete flexibility and accessibility, eliminating the need for any software to be installed on office computers. This means that users can access the vital data they require, from anywhere, at any time. FuelWorks can also monitor tank levels and predict low stock, sending email alerts as needed.

“The system we had in place before switching to Merridale was ancient and seriously lacked reporting capacity, it just about told us if the pump had been used. As part of the upgrade, we now also use a programme called FleetCheck alongside Merridale’s FuelWorks. It’s brilliant how FuelWorks integrates seemlesly with FleetCheck, so now we have a lot more control over our whole fleet and more reports and data at our disposal than ever before.”

To find out how Merridale FuelWorks could benefit your company, contact Merridale on 01902 350 700 or visit www.merridale.co.uk.

A further change occurred in 2016 when the reclassification of diesel meant that fuel pumps now needed to be certificated to ATEX standards. Following simple design modifications and third-party testing, Merridale was able to adapt all their existing products to meet and be certified to this standard.

With decades of experience behind them, Merridale launched the newest versions of their fuel pumps in 2018. Known as the MX series, the complete range has been developed to utilise stainless steel frames and panels and includes a redesign of the pump display. The MX range can also be used to pump or dispense DEF, known as AdBlue, and is available in single, twin, and two product twin versions, and versions with built-in fuel management.

Merridale is now one of the market leaders for fuel management manufacturing and is at the forefront for quality and design, with systems installed at over 4,000 sites across the UK, Ireland, Channel Islands, The Falklands and Europe. They offer the best in complete fuel management systems which can be configured to suit the needs of any business and are trusted by some of the UK’s biggest fleet operators, some of which have continued to use Merridale for over 20 years. Their products include storage tanks, tank management and pump systems, and a range of software.

To find out how a Merridale fuel management system could benefit your company, contact Merridale on 01902 350 700 or visit www.merridale.co.uk.

Company Director, John Russell said “Chris and Barry have been cornerstones of Merridale’s continued success. Their commitment to quality and a thorough, meticulous approach to every project have been defining features of their work over the years, consistently delivered outstanding results and playing a crucial role in maintaining the company’s reputation for excellence.”

"On behalf of everyone at Merridale, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Chris Starkey and Barry Reynolds for reaching this extraordinary milestone..."

Chris and Barry’s combined 50 years of service are a testament to their dedication, expertise, and passion for their work. Together, they have not only contributed to Merridale’s growth but have also helped create a culture of excellence, where teamwork, innovation, and a commitment to quality are at the forefront.

On behalf of everyone at Merridale, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Chris Starkey and Barry Reynolds for reaching this extraordinary milestone. Thank you both for your hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the company. Here’s to many more years of success and achievement!

General Manager, Paul Russell said “This year has been incredibly successful for Merridale Ltd – a record-breaking year that truly reflects the dedication, hard work, and commitment of every member of our team. Their passion and perseverance are the driving forces behind our success, and I am extremely proud of what we've achieved together”.

“Merridale continue to develop improved systems and software based on customer requirements. Our experience in this field has meant that we have built up a high degree of understanding of the fuel management needs of the fleet operator market and can provide systems that meet the differing requirements of each company.”

In 1994, Merridale Ltd was established with a vision to revolutionise fuel management in the UK. Recognising the industry's growing need for accurate, reliable, and user-friendly systems, Merridale set out to develop advanced solutions that would meet these demands.

From the outset, Merridale focused on innovation and quality. Early systems introduced features such as automated fuel dispensing and secure access controls. These innovations not only improved accuracy but also significantly reduced the administrative burden associated with fuel management.

Paul added “Over the past three decades, Merridale has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in fuel management. Merridale systems have evolved from simple electronic devices to comprehensive, integrated solutions that support the complex needs of modern businesses.

“Merridale continue to develop improved systems and software based on customer requirements. Our experience in this field has meant that we have built up a high degree of understanding of the fuel management needs of the fleet operator market and can provide systems that meet the differing requirements of each company.”

As technology advanced, so did Merridale’s product offerings. The integration of microprocessors and digital interfaces in the late 1990s and early 2000s marked a significant leap forward.

Merridale embraced these technologies, developing systems that provided real-time monitoring and reporting capabilities. This allowed companies to make more informed decisions and optimise their fuel usage.

The introduction of the internet and cloud computing in the 2010s brought another wave of transformation. Merridale was quick to leverage these technologies, offering web-based fuel management solutions that provided unprecedented levels of access and control. Merridale systems enabled remote monitoring, automated reporting, and integration with other enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, further enhancing operational efficiency.

In recent years, sustainability has become a key focus for the fuel management industry. Merridale has been a leader in this area, developing solutions that help companies reduce their environmental impact. Merridale systems support the use of alternative fuels, such as GTL & HVO, and provide detailed analytics to help companies track and reduce their carbon footprint.

The journey of Merridale Ltd over the past 30 years mirrors the broader evolution of the commercial fuel management industry. From humble beginnings to cutting-edge solutions, Merridale has played a pivotal role in transforming how companies manage their fuel resources.

Looking ahead, Merridale remains committed to driving further advancements in the industry. With a focus on emerging technologies, Merridale is poised to lead the next wave of innovation in fuel management.

“As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we also look forward to the future, confident that Merridale will continue to be a driving force in the industry.”

If you are interested in Merridale equipment, please contact the Merridale sales office on 01902 350700 or contact via sales@merridale.co.uk.