Introduction
Zuber Issa is a British billionaire businessman and entrepreneur, best known for his role as the co‑founder of EG Group, a global convenience retail and fuel service company. Alongside his brother Mohsin Issa, Zuber has played a significant role in transforming a small petrol station business into a multinational corporation, making them one of the richest and most influential business families in the UK. This article explores Zuber Issa’s life, career, business achievements, and the legacy he is building in the world of retail, convenience, and investment.
Early Life and Background
Zuber Issa was born in June 1972 in Blackburn, Lancashire, England. He comes from a British-Indian Gujarati Muslim family who emigrated from Gujarat, India in the 1960s. Raised alongside his brother Mohsin, Zuber was introduced to the world of business at a very young age. Their parents ran a petrol station in Blackburn, which played a crucial role in shaping their entrepreneurial mindset. ([source])
Growing up, Zuber and Mohsin worked at the family petrol station, learning the ropes of business management, customer service, and the importance of hard work. Their parents instilled in them values of discipline, persistence, and a deep understanding of business operations — lessons that would later form the foundation for their success. ([source])
Zuber Issa The Founding of Euro Garages and the Rise of EG Group
In 2001, Zuber and his brother Mohsin co‑founded Euro Garages with the vision of transforming traditional petrol stations into modern convenience stores offering retail products, food services, and branded partnerships. They started with a single petrol station in Bury, Greater Manchester, but their ambition and drive led to rapid expansion. Over the years, they acquired numerous petrol stations across the UK, making Euro Garages one of the leading forecourt operators in the country. ([source])
The company’s growth was propelled by the Issa brothers’ ability to identify untapped opportunities in the retail fuel market. They created a unique business model that combined petrol sales with a diverse range of services, including fast food, grocery stores, and cafes. This innovation helped them outpace competitors in the rapidly growing convenience retail sector. ([source])
In 2016, Euro Garages rebranded itself as EG Group, marking a significant milestone in its global expansion. Under the leadership of Zuber and Mohsin, EG Group grew into a multinational corporation, with operations spanning the UK, Europe, North America, and Australia. The company operates thousands of sites worldwide and has partnered with well‑known brands such as Starbucks, KFC, Subway, and Greggs. ([source])
The Asda Acquisition: A Game-Changing Move
One of the most pivotal moments in Zuber Issa’s career came in 2020 when EG Group, under his leadership, acquired the Asda supermarket chain from Walmart for £6.8 billion. This acquisition marked a dramatic expansion into the UK’s grocery sector and brought one of the country’s largest supermarket chains back under British ownership. The move signaled EG Group’s ambition to diversify beyond fuel retail and into grocery and consumer goods. ([source])
The acquisition of Asda also allowed Zuber and Mohsin Issa to increase their stake in the wider retail sector, significantly broadening the scope of EG Group’s operations. Under the Issa brothers’ leadership, Asda continued to perform well, with a focus on improving customer experience, expanding store formats, and driving innovation within the supermarket sector. ([source])
Zuber Issa Strategic Investments and Diversification
As Zuber Issa’s wealth and influence grew, so did his interest in diversifying his business portfolio. Beyond EG Group and Asda, Zuber has made several strategic investments in various industries, including automotive lubricants and property development. Notably, Zuber made an investment in Duckhams, a historic British motor oil brand, to revitalize it and expand its reach in global markets. ([source])
His ability to spot emerging trends and capitalize on them has been a hallmark of his entrepreneurial approach. By expanding into multiple sectors, Zuber has ensured that his business interests are well‑diversified, providing financial stability and long‑term growth opportunities for his family’s empire. ([source])
Zuber Issa Net Worth and Recognition
Zuber Issa, along with his brother Mohsin, is frequently listed on the Sunday Times Rich List as one of the wealthiest individuals in the UK. Their combined net worth is estimated to be in the billion-pound range, with much of their wealth tied to the success of EG Group, Asda, and their various business ventures. ([source])
In addition to his business accomplishments, Zuber has earned recognition for his philanthropic efforts and commitment to supporting local communities. Through charitable initiatives and donations, the Issa brothers have contributed to causes in their hometown of Blackburn, as well as other communities across the UK. ([source])
Zuber Issa Personal Life: Family and Legacy
Zuber Issa is married to his wife, Asma Issa, and the couple has four children. While Zuber’s business life is often in the spotlight, he has maintained a relatively private personal life, keeping his family and relationships out of the public eye. ([source])
The Issa brothers’ success story has not only made them household names in the UK but has also inspired countless entrepreneurs worldwide. Their journey from working in a family‑owned petrol station to building a global retail empire is a testament to their vision, hard work, and dedication to achieving success. ([source])
Conclusion
Zuber Issa’s career is a remarkable story of entrepreneurship, innovation, and ambition. From his humble beginnings in a petrol station in Blackburn to leading one of the world’s largest convenience retail and fuel service companies, Zuber has proven himself to be a visionary businessman. His ability to adapt, invest strategically, and expand globally has made him one of the most influential entrepreneurs in the UK and beyond.
As Zuber continues to expand his business empire, it’s clear that his legacy will extend beyond EG Group and Asda. His influence on the global retail and fuel sector will likely continue to grow for many years to come, as he explores new opportunities and investments in emerging industries.