The Sokolis Group, of Warrington, Pa., has formed a merchant services division it says will be headed by longtime fleet card expert Steven Fowler.
Sokolis President Glen Sokolis said he has “been planning to expand the company to include working closer with petroleum marketers.
When Fowler became available to help the endeavor, “it just all fell into place,” Sokolis said. “In working with our fleet partners we have daily discussions with petroleum merchants, many of whom have expressed frustration at the escalating fees erasing much if not all of their margins.”
Sokolis said many people are unsure about their rights and responsibilities and aren’t clear on the best path to manage and grow the commercial segment of their business.
“As a 32-year veteran and one of Wright Express founding team members, Steve brings the expertise and experience to the table to help merchants understand what needs to be done and how to best increase their profits,” Sokolis said.
Fowler started his career with Maine-based oil jobber AR Wright in 1975. Seven years later he joined the owners of that home heating-oil company to start Wright Express. He left the company in September 2007 after 25 years in primarily senior management positions, where he worked directly with petroleum marketers.
“In my years working in this industry I have always most enjoyed working directly with the marketers,” Fowler said. “I have met and worked with local oil distributors and major oil brands to help them manage their proprietary programs and of course to build card acceptance.
Fowler said he’ll be working directly with marketers to help them better understand how to regain their margins and profitably grow their programs.
Sokolis said he plans to add a merchant section to the company’s website, www.sokolisgroup.com, which will include an overview of the new services.