Each year, retail propane marketers face a whole new set of issues. In 2005, wholesale propane prices seemed to cause the most headaches, pushing retailers to look at new ways to become more profitable. read more
LP Gas lists its 2006 top propane retailer rankings. read more
When the CLEAR Act passed the House and Senate late last summer, and was signed into law in August, many in the propane industry were thrilled with the possibilities. With tax credits now available for the implementation and use of alternative fuel in cleaner, more environmentally friendly vehicles, propane sales were sure to grow. read more
It was a Sunday afternoon at the end of summer. Within days, 14-year-old Michael McCarty would be starting the ninth grade at a nearby private school. read more
With the average payment for workers' compensation claims among U.S. propane retailers peaking at $4,800 in 2000, business owners should be taking steps to gain control of these costs. Experts say there are effective ways to reduce the probability and control the frequency and costs associated with workplace injuries, but success requires cooperation from everyone in the organization. read more
Arecent study of the major causes and costs of workplace injuries and illnesses in the propane industry found the industry to be slightly better on average than other industries as a whole. read more
Actions have always been influenced by politics and consensus. It's much easier to sort out right and wrong when hindsight is 20/20 and situational ethics having been exposed for what they are. But passions run deep and old ways are hard to change. We also don't like our dirty laundry aired to the world, even when it's for our own good. read more
As I travel around the country talking to retailers, most are quick to mention that customer service and loyalty are what set their business apart from the competition. But, much like safety, I have to wonder how many offer only lip service. read more
Aside from writing this column, I also defend propane marketers who are sued for liability in gas explosion accidents. read more
As the second session of the 109th Congress gets underway, the propane industry is working to take advantage of new tax advantages as outlined in the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and other recent tax laws. read more
