Q&A with Gabriel Bannigan
Gabriel Bannigan is the Sales and Marketing Director at Klass Oil, Ireland’s leading independent fuel supplier. With a strong background in business development and management, he is dedicated to enhancing customer satisfaction and driving growth within the energy sector. Gabriel's leadership is characterised by a commitment to community engagement and sustainability, as he works to support local initiatives and contribute positively to the environment. In addition to his role at Klass Oil, he has recently been appointed as manager of Monaghan GAA Senior Football Team, where he emphasises teamwork and a culture of success.
1. How has Klass Oil Ireland adapted to changes in the energy landscape, especially in light of increasing demand for more sustainable and renewable energy solutions?
At Klass Oil, we’ve been proactive in adapting to the evolving energy landscape. The increasing demand for sustainable and renewable energy solutions led us to introduce HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil), which offers a significant reduction in carbon emissions while maintaining compatibility with existing diesel engines. This has allowed our customers, particularly in the commercial and agricultural sectors, to transition smoothly to greener alternatives without major disruptions.
We are constantly looking at innovative ways to align our offerings with environmental needs. Our long-term goal is to help reduce our carbon footprint while continuing to provide reliable energy solutions to businesses and households across Ireland.
2. The energy industry is undergoing rapid transformation, especially with the shift towards greener alternatives. How is Klass Oil preparing for a more sustainable future in the Irish market?
We’re preparing for a sustainable future by not only offering renewable fuels like HVO but also by launching Klass Solar, our new initiative under the Klass Home Energy brand. Klass Solar focuses on solar-powered depots and promotes renewable energy solutions across Ireland. This marks a strategic move toward a greener future, where we aim to blend traditional fuels with renewable energy, making it easier for our customers to adopt sustainable practices.
By investing in renewable technologies and partnering with local businesses and communities, we’re ensuring that Klass Oil remains at the forefront of Ireland’s energy transition.
3. Klass Oil has been a trusted name in Ireland for years. How important is supporting local communities to your business?
Supporting local communities is central to our business model. As a 100% Irish-owned company, we’ve always understood that our success is tied to the well-being of the regions we serve. This goes beyond delivering fuel—it’s about creating jobs, supporting local economies, and forming strong relationships with businesses and families across Ireland.
For example, our community-focused approach was one of the reasons we were recognised with the Excellence in Public Sector Support Services Award 2025, highlighting our dedication to delivering vital energy solutions while maintaining close ties with the public sector and local stakeholders.
4. What trends do you predict will shape the future of the oil and energy sector in Ireland, and how will Klass Oil adapt to these shifts?
The key trends shaping the future of Ireland’s energy sector will undoubtedly include the shift toward renewable energy and the push for decarbonisation. We’re seeing increasing demand for eco-friendly solutions, and government regulations are encouraging the adoption of greener fuels. Klass Oil is already adapting by offering HVO and launching Klass Solar to promote renewable energy infrastructure across the country.
As hybrid energy models and energy storage solutions gain traction, Klass Oil will continue to invest in these areas, ensuring that we provide our customers with the most efficient and sustainable fuel options.
5. Could you explain why Klass Oil decided to become a member of Guaranteed Irish? How does this membership align with the company's values and goals, and what advantages does Klass Oil see in being part of the Guaranteed Irish House initiative?
Joining Guaranteed Irish was a natural fit for us because it aligns with our core values of supporting local communities, fostering job creation, and contributing to the Irish economy. As a 100% Irish-owned business with a long history of delivering reliable fuel solutions across the country, we see Guaranteed Irish as a powerful way to reinforce our commitment to Irish provenance.
The Guaranteed Irish House initiative also allows us to collaborate with other Irish businesses that share our values, and it strengthens our mission to provide sustainable, high-quality energy solutions while staying rooted in Ireland’s economic and environmental future.
