Ones to watch: GreatGas
Fuelling 60 Irish forecourts and growing all the time...
What is it?
GreatGas Petroleum is an Irish-owned wholesale fuel supplier to independent forecourts across Ireland. Founded in 2005, the company supplies fuel to over 60 forecourts nationwide, 40 of which carry the distinctive 
GreatGas livery.
In the last nine months, GreatGas has opened 10 more fully serviced forecourts throughout the country and is on target to supply 100 forecourts by the end of next year.
GreatGas offers independent, family-run forecourts the chance to buy their fuel at competitive prices, maintain a margin for themselves and still have the back up of a strong and distinctive national brand.
GreatGas recently opened Ireland's first ever completely unmanned and automated self-service filling station. Located on the Old Airport Road in Santry, Dublin, the ‘pay-at-the-pump' forecourt has four pumps and provides customers with quick and hassle free diesel, 24 hours a day all year round.
Who's behind it?
GreatGas originally was founded in 2005 by Churchtown-born Gerry Murphy with fellow directors Michelle Gleeson and Maurice Gilbert. Industrial holding company DCC bought GreatGas in January of this year. The managing director of GreatGas is Ray O' Sullivan.
Financial situation?
GreatGas was profitable in year two and is now self funding. The company is forecasting revenues approaching €100m for the coming year as it continues to expand its network of filling stations nationwide.
Future plans?
GreatGas intends to continue rolling out its nationwide network of forecourts and reach its target of supplying 100 forecourts by the end of 2010. The company recently entered the Dublin market and will open two more Dublin forecourts in the coming months.
GreatGas is also preparing an extensive nationwide roll out of its unmanned and automated self-service filling stations with plans for several more in key urban centres around the country over the next 12-24 months.
