TSG UK is pleased to announce the appointment of Alison Adkin as Business Development Manager for Retail and Systems. Alison joined the business in May 2026 and will support forecourt operators across the UK with a strong focus on delivering practical, integrated solutions that improve site performance and customer experience.
Alison brings a wealth of experience in retail technology and forecourt operations, underpinned by a consultative, customer-first approach. Her career has been shaped by close collaboration with independent retailers, oil companies and multi-site operators, developing a deep understanding of how forecourts function day by day.
“Every site is different,” Alison explains. “To offer the right solution, you need to understand the business properly. That means listening, asking questions and spending time on site.”
One principle, in particular, has stayed with her throughout her career.
“You always have to ask yourself, what have we missed? What else could help the customer now and in the future?”
Understanding the bigger picture
Alison’s approach goes beyond systems and software. She believes that effective solutions are built on a full understanding of how a business operates, including the people behind it.
Her experience extends across multiple areas of forecourt operations, from fuel cards and retail systems to tank monitoring and site infrastructure. Having worked closely with oil companies and fuel networks, she is comfortable across the full scope of forecourt activity, giving her a practical, well-rounded perspective when advising customers.
“It’s important to engage with everyone on site, not just the manager,” she says. “Staff deal with the systems every day and understand where the challenges are. When you involve them in the conversation, you learn more, and it makes a real difference to how successful any change will be.”
This inclusive mindset reflects her broader philosophy of business development, where long-term relationships are built on trust, understanding and shared outcomes.
“I want to be part of the customer’s journey,” Alison adds. “It’s about being there, supporting them and helping them make the right decisions for their business.”
Balancing technology and customer experience
As payment technologies and retail systems continue to evolve, Alison recognises the importance of balance. While automation and digital solutions are becoming more prominent, she believes that customer choice remains essential.
“Technology is changing the way forecourts operate, but it’s not about replacing human interaction completely,” she explains. “Some customers want speed and convenience through self-checkout or outdoor payment, while others still value a personal interaction. The key is giving customers the choice.”
She also highlights the importance of flexibility and integration when selecting systems.
“An effective retail system needs to be fast, easy to use and capable of integrating with everything else on site. Staff should be able to pick it up quickly, and operators need clear visibility of what’s happening across the business.”
Driving smarter site performance
For Alison, the real value of modern retail systems lies in the data they generate and the insight they provide.
“Operators have access to so much information through their systems,” she says. “Understanding buying patterns, identifying quiet periods and managing stock more effectively can make a big difference to profitability.”
She also sees opportunities in site layout and customer flow.
“Simple changes can have a big impact. Things like locating pay-at-the-pump on outer lanes or improving self-service options can reduce congestion and improve the overall experience.”
Looking ahead, Alison believes integration will play an increasingly important role.
“Bringing systems together is critical,” she explains. “It gives operators visibility of their business and allows them to use that insight to improve efficiency and create more targeted offers for customers.”
A complete solution from one partner
Alison sees TSG’s breadth of offering as a key differentiator in the market.
“TSG has a huge amount of experience and a very strong reputation in the industry,” she says. “What really stands out is the range of services available. We can support everything from fuel systems and payment to energy and car wash. It’s a complete solution.”
Her focus now is to ensure customers fully understand that capability.
“A big part of my role is making sure customers are aware of what we can offer and how those solutions can support their business. It all comes back to listening, understanding and acting quickly on what customers need.”
Backing the appointment
Simon Burnett, Head of Sales for Retail and Systems, welcomed Alison to the team:
“We’re delighted to have Alison on board. Her experience in retail technology and her consultative approach make her a great fit for TSG. She understands the importance of building strong relationships with customers and will play a key role in helping us deliver connected, intelligent solutions across our forecourt network.”
Looking ahead
Alison sees the forecourt sector continuing to evolve rapidly, with operators needing to stay agile and responsive to change.
“Every site needs to find its own identity,” she says. “Understanding what makes a site different and how it can stand out locally is becoming more important than ever. At the same time, staying up to date with technology is critical. The risk isn’t just the cost of change, it’s the cost of standing still.”
Success, for Alison, is simple and practical.
“It’s about getting out, meeting customers face to face and helping them improve their business,” she explains. “I want to understand what they’re trying to achieve and support them in getting there.”
Beyond the Role, Looking Ahead
Outside work, Alison enjoys spending time with her son Callum, who is currently at university and remains a source of great pride. She also enjoys walking her Icelandic sheepdog, gardening, and growing her own produce, as well as supporting local charity fundraising through pub quizzes, where she contributes handmade hats as raffle prizes, alongside making homemade jams, wines and cakes.
Practical by nature, she is equally at home taking on DIY projects as she is supporting customers on site.
With a clear focus on building relationships, understanding customer needs and delivering practical solutions, Alison is set to play a key role in helping TSG deliver smarter, more connected solutions for forecourt operators across the UK.
