End of an Era for BP: Metro Takes Over in Newcastle West and Hamilton

30 September 2024

BP Newcastle West with BP signs already removed

The BP service stations on Parry Street in Newcastle West and Stewart Avenue in Hamilton are set to experience significant changes as Metro Petroleum assumes control of the operations. The transition marks the end of BP’s ownership under OTR, as Metro Petroleum takes over under a franchise agreement led by the new franchisee, Francis Nader.

Nader, while addressing staff concerns, clarified that he is a franchisee and does not own the freehold for the stations. Instead, the real estate remains under separate ownership. However, he will be managing the day-to-day operations of the stations, bringing a hands-on approach to his new role. “I’ll be working a few of the shifts myself,” Nader said, reassuring workers that he will be present to oversee operations personally.

The Newcastle West station on Parry Street will remain open 24 hours, continuing to provide the around-the-clock service it is known for. However, the Hamilton South station on Stewart Avenue will see changes to its trading hours, with the decision to close overnight due to the financial challenges posed by low demand during that period. Nader explained, “The overnight period isn’t profitable enough to cover the costs of electricity and wages, so we’ll be scaling back the hours there.”

Despite this, staff have expressed concerns about potential job losses. One of the workers, voiced his fears about reduced operations leading to cuts in shifts and staffing. “We’re worried that not everyone will keep their job now that Stewart Avenue is no longer 24 hours,” Hudson said. Many employees are anxiously waiting to see how these changes will affect their employment status, with Nader indicating that staff interviews will be conducted after the stations reopen, and decisions about ongoing employment will follow.

The transition is part of Metro Petroleum’s broader expansion across Australia, having received Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) approval to take over the sites. The deal was completed in compliance with the ACCC’s guidelines, which are designed to ensure that mergers or acquisitions do not lessen competition in the market, protecting consumers from potential fuel price increases.

The local community, while appreciative of the continued service at Newcastle West, will feel the impact of the changes at Stewart Avenue, as the area loses one of its few 24-hour service stations.

For now, both employees and customers alike are left contemplating how the station changes will shape the future of service and jobs in the Newcastle area.