News

Brechin-based Carnegie Fuels has been bought by a northern rival company after almost 70 years in business.

Highland Fuels have been unveiled as the new owner of the Angus firm following an extensive and considered acquisition process.

Family-owned Carnegie Fuels will now partner with Highland Fuels, becoming one of the largest suppliers in the country.

A prominent brand in Angus, Carnegie owns the naming rights to Brechin City FCs Glebe Park.

And the company will retain the name Carnegie Fuels as part of the acquisition deal.

Three generations of the family have owned the firm founded by the grandfather of outgoing director Kevin, David McKenzie Carnegie, in 1957.

Ryan Carnegie will take on a position as director following the sale.

It delivers domestic and agricultural fuel orders across Tayside and Angus, with many of the same customers first supplied by David almost 70 years ago.

It was Highland Fuels’ employee-ownership model which helped seal the deal for Carnegie, based on the two firms’ “strong cultural alignment and shared ethos”.

Kevin said: “Highland Fuels employee ownership was a key factor in our decision.

“We wanted to ensure that our team, many of whom have been with us for years, are looked after not just today but into the future.

“Joining an employee-owned company like Highland Fuels gives them that stability and a real stake in what comes next.”

Highland Fuels managing director Stephen Rhodes said: “This is a very positive step for both businesses and for the communities we serve.

“We’re honoured to be continuing the Carnegie legacy and welcoming the team into the Highland Fuels family.

“This partnership is built on shared values and a commitment to long-term success.

“This transaction lays a strong foundation for operational continuity and sustainable growth, delivered with a focus on people, communities and service excellence.

“Highland Fuels and Carnegie Fuels share a deep-rooted commitment to professionalism, integrity and reliability.

“By uniting the strengths of the two companies, customers can be confident in a trusted energy partner that is well equipped to meet Scotland’s evolving energy needs – today and into the future.”

This article appeared in The Courier on 5 August 2025