Industry fuel provider Avfuel has enhanced its supply and logistics infrastructure with the acquisition of CBL Trading, a fuel-supply subsidiary of Katy, Texas-based Charter Brokerage LLC.
The move adds to Avfuel’s holdings along the Explorer Pipeline from the Gulf Coast to Chicago and the Westshore Pipeline from East Chicago, Indiana to Des Planes, Illinois. and Chicago O’Hare International Airport. It will also take over CBL’s storage agreements at three terminals: Magellan in Dallas, Citgo in East Chicago, and Shell in Des Planes, which will allow it to ship and store additional fuel supplies at these locations.
“With more than 45 years in the business, we’ve become core competent in the delivery of fuel via pipeline, barge, rail, and truck,” said executive v-p C.R. Sincock. “The CBL Trading acquisition gives Avfuel access to additional touchpoints in the fuels journey from refinery to wingtip, offering greater control in the fuel supply process.”
Former CBL Trading scheduler Christine Owen will join the Avfuel staff and remain in Texas, maintaining continuity with CBL’s current customers.
“CBL quickly grew a successful jet fuel supply/logistics business model with its focus on helping customers be more successful,” said Matthew Dennis, CBL’s executive president. "The opportunity to have an outstanding team and support to build the CBL brand and business and then see it compatibly integrate into and enhance Avfuel’s capabilities is professionally gratifying.”
Ann Arbor-based Avfuel has also launched a free training program to help mitigate industry diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) contamination. Devoted to best practices for handling and storing DEF, it includes recommendations for mitigating contamination upon receipt of fuel and the steps fuel handlers should take if they suspect contamination.
“Our goal is to do whatever we can to help mitigate the risks involved with fueling mishaps, especially in light of the various issues the industry has seen in regard to DEF being mistaken for fuel system icing inhibitor,” said Randy Harrison, the company’s quality assurance manager.
The fuel provider also offers the subscription-based Avfuel Training System which includes FAA-approved Part 139 line fuel service and supervisory fuel service training among other topics.
This week at NBAA-BACE 2019 in Las Vegas, Avfuel has invited 28 of its branded network partners representing 99 FBO locations to its booth (N4123). Showgoers who interact with at least 13 of them can earn a chance to win a cash prize of up to $500. “Network Bucks” collected at the booth can also be redeemed for bonus Avtrip rewards points at the exhibiting FBOs.