As every independent retailer is seeking to save on everyday running costs, bira has teamed up with The Fuelcard People to offer a wide range of cards that are valid at 7,000-plus pumps nationwide.

Excellent service and value for money have been combined in the new deal for petrol and diesel, which includes BP, Esso, Shell, Tesco & Texaco forecourts, supermarkets and independent garages, as well as the Diesel Direct (Keyfuels) and UK Fuels networks.

All bira members – and their drivers – are eligible to enjoy the benefits of the partnership.

Jeff Moody, commercial director at bira, said: “We wanted to find a supplier that could significantly reduce fuel costs for our members, but we wanted more than merely consistent savings. As our retailers place such emphasis on service quality, we expect our commercial partners to have the same focus. We found what we were seeking with The Fuelcard People. For instance, the company allocates to every customer, regardless of size, a dedicated account manager. As other fuel card companies still use anonymous call centres, this speaks volumes about quality of service offered by The Fuelcard People. We were also reassured that it offers the best security and protection against fuel card loss or fraud. We are certain that this new service will save bira members money.”

Steve Clarke, group marketing manager for The Fuelcard People, remarked: “We believe that fuel cards should offer more than just cost savings and we are delighted at this recognition by bira. From now on, bira members no longer have to drive around looking for the best refuelling deal – they have it already. Our fixed weekly pricing nationwide for diesel, petrol or both means a typical saving of up to 5p per litre on national average pump prices and up to 10p per litre on motorway refuelling.”

Cheaper diesel and petrol, less paperwork and reduced administration are just the start of the benefits for bira members. A single weekly invoice, covering all the refuelling for every vehicle, can result in up to two weeks of interest-free credit before an automatic direct debit payment is taken.  Members will not be pushed towards any particular fuel card, but will receive impartial advice on the most appropriate fuel card for their specific needs.

Other benefits of The Fuelcard People schemes include 24/7 access to a secure internet account that includes transactions yet to be invoiced. Bespoke reports are available on demand for downloading directly to standard business packages. The use of eServices means that the whole process can be paperless and administration-free.