Achieving FORS (Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme) accreditation is becoming an increasingly important goal for commercial fleet operators looking to demonstrate their commitment to best practice in safety, efficiency, and environmental performance. However, with this recognition comes the responsibility to monitor, document and improve key operational areas – especially around fuel usage and emissions reporting. For many operators, this can present a significant administrative and technical challenge.
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.
