ThompsonGas acquires second fuel provider on the North Shore

On March 22, WTIP learned that ThompsonGas, headquartered in Frederick, Maryland, had acquired North Shore Oil & Propane, based in Silver Bay.
 
ThompsonGas CEO George Koloroutis, said, “ ThompsonGas is proud to welcome North Shore Oil & Propane’s customers to the ThompsonGas family, and is committed to serving the residential, commercial and industrial customers who have valued North Shore Oil & Propane’s presence in the region for over 50 years.”
 
“Wade Leblanc built a company with strong values and a commitment to customer service,” said Derek Ashmore, Regional Vice President of ThompsonGas. “The opportunity to carry on his legacy with North Shore Oil & Propane is truly an honor. We look forward offering additional value and services to the community.”
 
The deal represents the company’s second major investment in the region, as ThompsonGas purchased the assets of Como Oil & Propane in 2015.
 
“This is a smart next step for the future of North Shore Oil & Propane,” continued Ashmore. “Our two companies will blend together smoothly with a renewed focus on our customers. This acquisition will allow us to strengthen our service offering to customers to include better efficiencies, enhanced fuel ordering technology and a better overall value.”
 
“The strong communities in northern Minnesota make it an excellent place to do business,” said Koloroutis. “The entire team at ThompsonGas is looking forward to expanding our investment in the region and provide our customers with the best products and services available on the market.”
 
This acquisition strengthens ThompsonGas’ national footprint by expanding the company’s presence in northern Minnesota. ThompsonGas now serves more than 87,000 customers in 14 states.

WTIP's Rhonda Silence reached out to ThompsonGas with some questions about how this would impact North Shore consumers.

After speaking with Regional Vice President Ashmore, WTIP contacted both of the propane providers on the North Shore, Como Oil & Propane and North Shore Oil & Propane to find out what current propane prices are. We learned that as of March 27, the Como Oil & Propane general rate, not considering new customer or business discounts, is $2.29 per gallon. North Shore Oil’s gave a general rate of $2.19 per gallon.

Here's the interview with Derek Ashmore of ThompsonGas