TSG UK is pleased to announce the appointment of Simon Burnett as Head of Sales for Retail and Systems. Simon joined the company in December 2025 and will lead the existing sales teams with a clear focus on strengthening TSG’s presence in the systems sector and delivering smarter, more connected solutions for forecourt operators.
Simon brings extensive experience from CBE and HTEC/PDI, as well as a strong background in convenience retail through Booker, Londis and Budgens. His career has been shaped by a practical, customer-first philosophy that prioritises solutions over sales. “I see myself as a solutions provider, not a salesman,” Simon explains. “The best way to understand a forecourt is to walk the site, talk to the operator and find out what really matters. If the product won’t solve the problem, I’ll say so. The customer comes first.”
A vision for smarter forecourts
Simon’s approach is rooted in trust and transparency. He believes that long-term relationships are built on confidence, not quick wins. “Selling the whole package is key,” he says. “When operators know the service and maintenance are in place, they can invest with confidence. After-sales support is just as important as the initial installation.”
As forecourts evolve into multi-purpose retail hubs, integrated systems will play a vital role in managing payments, media, wetstock and site control. TSG Systems delivers these capabilities through advanced operating platforms that consolidate equipment across single sites and entire networks. From electronic point-of-sale and pay-at-pump to mobile payments, self-checkout and digital media, TSG enables operators to run at peak efficiency while enhancing the customer experience.
Simon sees huge potential in helping operators adapt to changing consumer expectations. “Customers waiting to charge their vehicles want more than a plug,” he says. “They want services that make the experience worthwhile. Cafés, retail offers and even outdoor payment terminals that allow them to pay for everything in one place. We need to think differently and help operators create value.”
Collaboration at the core
Simon is passionate about breaking down silos and fostering collaboration across departments. Weekly calls with helpdesk and installation teams have been part of his leadership style for years, ensuring everyone understands the bigger picture. “Departments shouldn’t work as islands,” he explains. “When we share information, we solve problems faster and give customers a better experience.”
He also champions cross-selling as a way to deliver more value to customers. “TSG offers a wide range of solutions, from payment systems and media to energy and car wash,” Simon says. “If a customer is interested in something outside our immediate scope, we’ll bring in a specialist. It’s about thinking company-wide, not just department-wide.”
Building a strong team
For Simon, success is measured by the strength of his team. “Every team should be able to run without their boss,” he says. “That means developing people, identifying their strengths and giving them the confidence to act. If someone has a problem, I want them to bring a solution. Mistakes happen, but they’re how we learn and grow.”
He also believes in financial awareness. “Sales teams need to understand that everything has a cost,” he explains. “Goodwill has a cost. Shrinkage and loss have a cost. Profit and loss matter, and understanding that makes us better partners for our customers.”
Why TSG?
Simon chose TSG for its reputation as a company that values people and listens to customers. “TSG shares my values,” he says. “It’s a good fit. The business is willing to adapt to the changing needs of the energy industry and take on new solutions to match customer expectations.”
Henry Simpson, Managing Director of TSG UK, commented:
“We’re delighted to welcome Simon to the team. His experience and customer-first approach make him the ideal person to lead Retail and Systems. He will play a key role in helping us deliver smarter, more integrated solutions for forecourt operators.”
Beyond the forecourt
Outside work, Simon is a keen Formula One fan and enjoys restoring houses and vintage cars. He lives in Southampton with his wife and four grown-up children and is always on the lookout for his next property project or classic car restoration.
With Simon at the helm, TSG Retail and Systems is poised to strengthen its offerings for operators, providing solutions that streamline site control, boost efficiency and improve the customer experience.
