ACCC Ends Fuel Probe Into United Petroleum

United Petroleum's effort to clear its name regarding E10 fuel compliance is aimed at maintaining consumer trust, though ongoing concerns from former staff and franchisees may complicate matters.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has officially ended its investigation into claims that United Petroleum's E10 fuel failed to meet required ethanol standards. The probe began in 2020 after a law firm claimed its testing showed ethanol levels in several samples were reportedly below 1%—well below the standard for E10 blends. Although the case is now closed with no enforcement outcome, separate legal challenges continue for the fuel company.

Founded in 1993 and now valued in the billions, United Petroleum came under scrutiny following legal action by a Sydney law firm representing concerned franchisees. Testing by independent laboratories had indicated that some E10 fuels sold by United fell short of federal compliance guidelines. Complaints were submitted to both the ACCC and the Department of Energy at the time. Additional claims were raised about potentially misleading halal food labeling at United’s Pie Face retail outlets.

United has denied that a formal ACCC investigation ever took place and has rejected all accusations. The ACCC stated it found no grounds for enforcement under Australian Consumer Law. It remains unclear whether the commission conducted its own testing or relied entirely on third-party results. The law firm behind the initial complaint is continuing to raise objections to the ACCC's decision, saying the outcome appears inconsistent with the test results.

Although the E10 investigation has concluded, United Petroleum is still facing unrelated court action involving former employees. The allegations include unfair treatment in business dealings such as increased rent and pressure during audits. United denies these claims. The legal challenges suggest that broader concerns over the company’s management practices and franchisee support are ongoing.

Source: The Australian, Fair Work Ombudsman, Australia Business News

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