While working as a travelling fuel salesman for the oil giant Esso, Holmes had the idea of helping filling-station chains launch fuel cards, offering fixed prices on petrol and diesel to lorry drivers. Although he admits the loyalty scheme concept was “not very sexy”, the business Holmes started above a hairdressing salon in a Cheshire village now has offices in 19 countries. Radius has also diversified into providing insurance and data analytics services to fleet operators. Annual turnover has hit nearly £4.7bn and investors have valued the Crewe-based business at £2bn.