An Angus councillor says the county’s first unmanned petrol pump has been good for business.
Savid Fairweather was speaking after an independent fuel station in Arbroath claimed victory in the David-versus-Goliath battle against Asda’s automated pump.
Colin McIntosh, who runs the Shell garage, said his customers had stayed loyal, despite marginally cheaper fuel being sold at the town’s Asda since last month.
Fears had been rife that Angus Council’s decision to allow automated pumps would lead to job losses but it seems the first of its kind has done little to dent established trade.
Mr Fairweather said: ”I’m delighted he has now said that Asda’s pump has virtually made no difference to his business.
”When this application came in front of planning I got a call from Mr McIntosh, who was worried about the detrimental effect it would have on his livelihood.
“At the time I said I didn’t think it would make any difference to his business. Now he has said it’s had almost no effect on his business and I’m delighted that my thoughts at the time have come to fruition.
”I thought the arrival of Asda would bring extra benefits for the town and business as a whole. My view is that competition within the town is a good thing. It attracts people from outwith the area to Arbroath and it also keeps people in the town.”
Mr Fairweather said Asda’s arrival has also kept prices competitive in the town, with supermarket rival Morrisons reducing its fuel costs in response.
The decision to approve the pump at Asda was taken by council officers under delegated powers, meaning councillors did not get the chance to formally discuss or vote on the development.