Green energy focus for Rix

FUELS-to-caravans group J.R. Rix and Sons is set to invest in the renewables sector as the family-owned business looks to the future.

Turnover at the group rose from £350m to £425.4m last year with Rix Petroleum, the biggest of its businesses, enjoying sales growth of 24%.

J.R. Rix’s businesses operate in a range of sectors from marine bunkering and shipping to caravan maker Victory Leisure Homes.

It is now reviewing how it can capitalise on moves to make the Humber a hub for the renewable energy industry.

Rory Clarke, managing diretor of Rix Petroleum and a director of J.R. Rix & Sons, said: “The UK is in a double dip recession so trading is going to be tough but we are optimistic about the future.

“We will continue to realise opportunities in the petroleum operation but our main focus is to become further embedded in the burgeoning renewable energy industry which we believe offers a wealth of opportunities both for J.R. Rix & Sons Ltd and the Humber region where much of our business operates.”

Earlier this year Rix Shipping placed an order for three new workboats to be built by Dunston Ship Repairs at the Hepworth Shipyard it owns on the Humber to be used by the renewables industry.

Overall J.R. Rix and Sons saw pre-tax profits fall from £5.1m to £2.3m last year although Mr Clarke insisted the business had performed as expected given the tough economic conditions.

“Our petroleum business traded well and has benefitted from a strong focus on sales combined with a strategic approach to marketing. The business continues to make progress in the areas in which it operates.

“Marine bunkering also saw a successful 2011, despite continued global unease, growing ahead of forecasts,” he said.