Butane-Propane News

02/14/2025

Propane insurance is changing — are you keeping up? The days of simple propane insurance are long gone. With rising liability risks and stricter safety documentation requirements, insurers are tightening the rules like never before.

In his latest article, Frank Thompson, owner of PT Risk Management, breaks down how propane businesses can stay protected in 2025. From meticulous cylinder tracking to ironclad dispenser agreements, compliance is no longer optional — it’s essential.

Propane insurance now addresses growing liability risks and strict safety requirements.

02/12/2025

How do you react to change? When it comes time to implement shifts in your company, chances are you'll encounter a wide variety of responses.

To effectively lead your company through change, the leadership team must model healthy openness to change themselves. C.J. Smith with Smith Pumps walks readers through what an adaptive company culture looks like. Read more below:

https://bpnews.com/management/tips-implement-shifts-business-operations-while-prioritizing-your-employees

02/10/2025

Bobtail Tank Stretching: A Thing of the Past?

For years, stretching bobtail cargo tanks was a common practice, but today, it’s rarely done. Why? From regulatory hurdles to cost concerns and design challenges, the industry has shifted toward more practical solutions.

In this article, Tim Schweppe, of Arrow Tank and Engineering, breaks down the reasons behind this change and what it means for propane marketers.

Bobtail tank stretching is obsolete due to length, documentation and cost challenges.

02/07/2025

In the February edition of Propane and the Law, attorney David Schlee analyzes a case involving a plaintiff's claim that a Michigan natural gas provider's maintenance led to a residential gas leak.

Take a look at why the court ruled against the plaintiff and found the gas provider at no fault.

In the February edition of Propane and the Law, attorney David Schlee examines a case involving a plaintiff's claim that a natural gas provider's maintenance caused a leak.

02/06/2025

As President Trump's tariffs with Mexico and Canada enter into the temporary land of limbo, various industries are preparing for the impact of U.S.-China tariffs.

Here's a look at the rapidly shifting dynamics involved in current economic policies and why the propane industry needs to be prepared for taking a financial hit.

Tariffs under the Trump administration create uncertainty for the propane industry despite regulatory support.

02/05/2025

Strong sales management is the backbone of a successful company.

In his latest article, Ed Varney, of Top Line Management, shares key strategies for new sales managers to lead with confidence, build trust and drive team success. Read more on how the right leadership approach can transform sales performance!

New sales managers succeed by setting clear expectations, building trust and fostering a culture of accountability.

02/03/2025

"Surf's up, dude!" Fun words you want to hear on a beach, but never said in reference to your underground propane tank.

Buoyancy is a very real issue when it comes to installing underground propane tanks in areas prone to waterlogging. Check out the February feature article from Matt Dreyer, director of safety and operations at Thermotane Propane, on how those working in coastal regions combat surfing propane tanks.

Combatting buoyancy is the primary task facing propane tank installation in the coastal regions of the U.S. Discover the tools available to effectively anchor propane tanks.

01/31/2025

Meet Jenney Adcock, the Director of Autogas Service at Superior Energy Systems! She’s leading the charge in autogas installations, customer support and troubleshooting across North America.

Her expertise and dedication keep the industry running smoothly. Check out her journey and insights in our latest article!

Jenney Adcock oversees autogas service and customer support at Superior Energy Systems.

01/29/2025

The security of your company is vital, and in today's world, you can never be too safe when it comes to protecting your digital assets.

Trey Nichols with Silverline Solutions says that by outsourcing your IT department, you can ensure that your company is kept safe from harm, all while keeping your team's workload manageable.

Propane companies often lack a complete toolbox for their cybersecurity programs. All the more reason to consider partnering with a managed services provider.

01/28/2025

As parts of the country that experienced a winter storm are getting back to their "normal," the fluctuations of weather are a reminder of the unexpected nature of the propane industry.

Beyond the impact winter weather has on propane supply, there are important safety considerations that those in the industry must bear in mind.

In light of recent weather consideration, safety expert Russ Head — vice president of safety at EDP — weighed in on safety concerns to keep top of mind:

"The current weather trends across much of the country have brought a ‘Polar Vortex’ situation. Due to this, propane businesses are seeing an increased pace of business due to the demand the extreme cold has brought. This cold weather means more than discomfort for a delivery driver. It is a time when the hazards of their job are significantly magnified. Slips, trips, and falls are common enough on dry surfaces, but the danger is only magnified when you add snow, ice, and harsh weather conditions.

Please make sure your team has proper cold-weather gear and understands the risks of cold-weather exposure. Employees who are not adequately prepared for extreme cold weather conditions and are not appropriately dressed are especially susceptible to cold-induced stress, diminished job performance, and higher safety risks. Prepare your team and keep them safe!"

Image courtesy of Thermotane Propane.

01/27/2025

Safety starts at the top! Rusty Walker, managing director and propane/fuel dealer program director at Higginbotham Insurance, shares how propane companies can reduce risks and improve insurance outcomes.

From hiring and training to accountability and safety tools, building a culture of safety protects your team and keeps your business strong.

Propane companies thrive with safety-focused hiring, training and accountability.

01/24/2025

"SHOW ME THE MONEY!" These are the iconic words of the fictional Jerry Maguire, and often times, the words propane marketers might hear in their heads as they assess their own work.

But as you look to grow your sales performance numbers, it's important to remember to invest in your company culture.

Kaitlyn Olsen with Christensen, Inc. shares how a company can establish a thriving workplace environment by giving its employees clear paths of growth within the company.

As you focus on building your propane company by the numbers, it is essential to remember to invest in your company culture. Prioritize workforce collaboration by giving your employees a clear growth path within your company.

01/22/2025

Managing cash flow during peak seasons is critical for propane distributors. From pre-buy programs to supplier payment plans, discover 8 actionable strategies to keep your business thriving and your customers warm.

Read Porter Capital's Scott Romanowski's full article to plan for a stronger financial future in the propane industry!

The propane industry uses cash flow strategies to meet winter demand and ensure success.

01/21/2025

How do you attract customers to your propane brand?

It's a simple question, but one that propane marketers continue to wrestle with in one way or another. Ben Gutkin with Warm Thoughts Communications weighs in with the time-tested strategies that he recommends.

The "how" behind propane marketing can be elusive. How do you get your propane brand in front of the right people? Take a look at these following strategies to boost your marketing strategy.

01/17/2025

How Do Elections Impact Energy Policy?

In this Q&A, NPGA President Steve Kaminski dives into the executive branch’s role in shaping energy policy, the impact of federal and state regulations, challenges like gas bans and how propane advocacy drives energy choice and sustainability.

This Q&A with NPGA CEO Steve Kaminski explores how presidential elections shape energy policy and propane advocacy amid evolving federal and state regulations.

01/15/2025

How do we go about selecting energy options that are safe, equitable and sustainable? Energy policy is a tricky field, with countless perspectives and factors to consider.

Cinch Munson with the World Liquid Gas Association talks on the "energy trilemma" and how we might have a great solution that ticks all the boxes right in front of us: propane.

The "energy trilemma" is a helpful diagnostic tool used by the energy industry to think through policy that meets the criteria of a workable energy solution. And it is a tool that might lead us right back to propane.

01/13/2025

When a minor repair turns into a major setback! Eason Propane's new bobtail truck was devastated by a repair error, leading to a $260,000 court victory.

Read in David Schlee's article how the Mississippi Supreme Court upheld justice in Eason Propane v. Empire Truck Sales.

The Mississippi Supreme Court upheld a $260,000 verdict for Eason Propane after a repair error caused a fire that ruined its new bobtail truck.

01/10/2025

As we enter further into 2025, propane companies engaged in the M&A sector will be keeping an eye on essential factors at play in the market.

Barrett Conway with Cetane Associates shares the three areas that he recommends you give special consideration to put your business in the best position for M&A deal-making.

With 2025 promising to be a year with potentially significant changes in the domestic market, here are three key areas to keep an eye on to stay ahead in the M&A sector.