Zuber Issa, the billionaire entrepreneur who made headlines with his co-led £6.8 billion acquisition of Asda in 2021, is now embarking on a new venture – the revival of the iconic British motor oil brand Duckhams. With a rich history dating back to 1899 and a loyal following among Formula 1 legends such as Nigel Mansell and Ayrton Senna, the brand is set to make a comeback thanks to the visionary investment of Issa.

Issa, along with his brother Mohsin, shot to fame with their entrepreneurial success in the petrol station business. Their company EG Group has become a global powerhouse with over 6,000 petrol stations across Europe, the US, and Australia. Now, with their sights set on the automotive industry, the Issa brothers have taken on the challenge of reviving one of Britain’s most beloved and respected oil brands.

The decision to invest in Duckhams was not an impulsive one for Issa. He has always been fascinated by the brand’s heritage and the nostalgia it evokes in enthusiasts. In an interview, he stated, “Duckhams has been a staple in the British automotive scene for over a century and has played a significant role in the success of many racers and everyday drivers alike. We want to bring that legacy back to life and make it relevant for the modern-day automotive world.”

Duckhams was founded in 1899 by chemist Alexander Duckham, who was passionate about creating high-quality lubricants for engines. Over the years, the brand became synonymous with reliability, performance, and innovation. Their unique green packaging and distinctive logo, featuring a duck wearing a top hat, became instantly recognizable in the British motoring landscape.

The brand’s popularity reached its peak in the 1970s and 1980s, especially in the world of motorsports. Duckhams was the official lubricant supplier for the British Grand Prix and was used by some of the greatest Formula 1 drivers, including Nigel Mansell and Ayrton Senna. With its superior performance and ability to withstand extreme conditions, the brand became a favorite among racers and car enthusiasts alike.

Sadly, in the late 1980s, Duckhams was acquired by multinational giant BP, and the brand gradually lost its identity and presence in the market. But Issa’s investment signals a new chapter for the brand, one that promises to bring back its old glory and introduce it to a new generation of drivers.

Under the Issa brothers’ leadership, Duckhams is set to undergo a significant transformation. The brand will retain its iconic green packaging and logo, but with a modern twist. The product range will include fully synthetic, semi-synthetic, and mineral oils for various types of engines, catering to both high-performance and everyday vehicles.

Moreover, the brand will also focus on sustainability, with plans to introduce environmentally friendly lubricants and packaging in the future. This aligns with Issa’s commitment to making EG Group a more environmentally conscious company, with initiatives such as installing electric vehicle charging stations at their petrol stations.

Duckhams’ revival has already sparked excitement and anticipation among car enthusiasts and industry experts. With the Issa brothers’ impeccable track record in business and their passion for the brand, there is no doubt that Duckhams will make a triumphant comeback.

The brand’s return also holds significant implications for the British economy. The revival of Duckhams will create job opportunities and contribute to the growth of the automotive industry. It also reflects the Issa brothers’ commitment to investing in British brands and preserving their heritage.

Overall, Zuber Issa’s investment in Duckhams is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and his unwavering belief in the brand’s potential. With his vision and determination, Duckhams is set to reclaim its position as the go-to oil brand for drivers, making it a true success story of a British brand that refuses to go down without a fight.