With demand for biodiesel and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) on the rise, used cooking oil has become an important raw material. This has led to a surge in oil theft across the UK, with criminal gangs disguising themselves as legitimate collectors. Restaurants, pubs and large kitchens are being targeted, leaving business owners facing frustration, disruption and even compliance risks.
Why is Used Cooking Oil being stolen?
Used cooking oil is no longer just waste, instead, it’s processed into biodiesel or SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel), both in high demand due to the push for greener fuels. This makes UK food businesses an attractive target for theft, especially when oil is stored outdoors in public or poorly monitored areas.
How to Recognise an Official Quatra UK Collection
Protect your oil and your business by knowing what to look for. Only Quatra drivers are authorised to collect your used cooking oil.
Drivers in Quatra uniforms
Our drivers wear a green and black uniform which features the Quatra logo.
Recognisable vehicles
Quatra only uses recent vans or trucks featuring full-height graphics.
New barrels with Quatra stickers
We exchange full barrels for clean ones, each labelled with a unique Quatra QR code.
⚠️ Important : Criminals may try to imitate uniforms, but they often use unmarked vehicles. If you are unsure, write down the number plate and report it immediately to the police and Quatra.
How to Prevent Used Cooking Oil Theft
Take these simple steps to reduce the risk of theft:
Stay alert and notify each other
Watch for suspicious activity or vehicles. Share information with staff and neighbouring businesses.
Store the barrels in a closed-off area
Keep oil barrels in a locked or restricted area. Discuss access with Quatra if you are not on site.
Don't have a closed-off area?
Theft often happens overnight. Bringing barrels indoors after closing hours helps deter criminals.
Install theft deterrents
Secure barrels with locks or install CCTV. Video evidence can support a police investigation.
Check the digital pick-up receipt
After every collection, Quatra sends a digital summary confirming the service.
Share tips with each other!
Have a good method for keeping your oil safe? Share it with other businesses, a stronger community makes theft harder.
Already Been a Victim? Report It
- File a report via the UK Police online reporting tool.
- State that you are a Quatra customer.
- Send a copy of your report to info.uk@quatra.com.
Even a quick report is valuable. Police use this information to build cases and trace organised crime groups.