Our Machynlleth Service Station in Powys has scooped a top honour at the 2026 Booker Forecourt Trader Awards, winning the West Country & Wales over four million litres per annum (over 4mlpa) category and we couldn’t be prouder of our team.
The recognition went beyond the forecourt itself, with the Machynlleth team also named as finalists in the Best Forecourt Team category which is a fitting tribute to the people behind the station’s success.
Describing our Texaco and Nisa Local siteas “the best we saw” during their judging of shortlisted forecourts across the region, the judges praised its exceptional presentation and welcoming atmosphere, noting that it was “spotless with nothing out of place”.
It’s a fantastic endorsement of the £3 million transformation Ascona Group completed in 2023, creating a modern roadside retail destination designed around the needs of our customers and local community.
A transformation that makes a difference
Following a six-month closure, we reopened Machynlleth in August 2023 after making our largest investment in a Welsh site at the time.
The redevelopment expanded our Nisa Local store to 3,500 sq ft, providing a spacious retail environment with the feel of a high-end supermarket. The offer includes fresh food and vegetables, chilled and frozen products, and an extended range of food-to-go options.
The judges were particularly impressed by the quality of the presentation, including the fresh food displays and wooden units, as well as the immaculate forecourt and our rollover and jet car wash.
From Starbucks coffee and Rollover hotdogs to West Cornwall Pasty Co treats, the site offers customers choice and convenience, whether they’re stopping for fuel, picking up essentials or taking a break on their journey.
The investment was about more than the facilities. During the six-month closure, we retained the staff at the site, allowing them to remain at home on full pay while the redevelopment was completed. Today, Machynlleth supports 21 staff and continues to serve residents, local businesses and motorists travelling through the area.
A proud moment for the Machynlleth team
Area Manager Karen Barrett said:
“We’re absolutely delighted that Machynlleth has received this recognition. The redevelopment was a significant investment, and it’s fantastic to see the hard work and attention to detail that goes into maintaining such high standards recognised by the judges.
“Keeping our staff on full pay throughout the closure was important to us. To see the forecourt reopen and go on to win this award makes the investment all the more worthwhile. Elaine and her colleagues should be incredibly proud of what they’ve achieved.”
Machynlleth Site Manager Elaine Dafydd and Area Manager Karen Barrett collected the award on behalf of Ascona at the ceremony in London on 8th October 2026, alongside television presenter Colin Murray, host of Channel 4’s Countdown.
A standout night for Ascona
The Booker Forecourt Trader Awards celebrate excellence across the UK fuel retailing sector, recognising innovation, customer service, sustainability and overall site performance. Organised by William Reed and sponsored by Booker, the awards bring together businesses from across the industry to celebrate outstanding achievement.
Our Machynlleth win was a highlight of the evening, with Ascona also receiving five further finalist nominations across four more sites including:
- Ascona Caersws – West Country & Wales up to 4mlpa
- Ascona Crossways – West Country & Wales up to 4mlpa
- Ascona Green Garage – West Country & Wales over 4mlpa
- Ascona Refinery Service Station – Scotland up to 4mlpa
- Ascona Refinery Service Station – Best Car Care & Lubricants Outlet
As the UK’s seventh-largest independent fuel retailer, we continue to invest in our network of 70 roadside destinations across England, Wales and Scotland, with a strong presence in Wales.
