BIZ BUZZ: Top Line gas stations get an ‘uncle’ boost

Top Line Business Development Corp. is boosting its gas stations’ buzz in the Visayas with the presence of the convenience store chain Uncle John’s of the Robinsons Group.

The Cebu-based fuel firm teamed up with Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc. to make Uncle John’s its anchor tenant for all Tier 1 Light Fuels stations.

The company, which went public in April last year, said the partnership was expected to provide a lift to its nonfuel revenue streams through commercial leasing.

“Having Uncle John’s as our anchor tenant strengthens customer traffic across our stations while allowing us to diversify revenue through non-fuel sales and leasing income,” said Eugene Erik Lim, chair and CEO of Top Line.

“Many of our stations are located in underserved areas in the provinces. Through this collaboration, we are making everyday essentials, both fuel and convenience retail, more accessible to consumers across Visayas,” Lim added.

Top Line’s Tier 1 Light Fuels stations have dedicated commercial areas for convenience stores, food operators and other retail tenants.