Mickey, Sam, Sal, and Cal Jamal
Owners and Operators
Chestnut Petroleum Distributors
The Jamal brothers – Mickey, Sam, Sal, and Cal – owners and operators of Chestnut Petroleum Distributors, are one of “New York’s Foremost Convenience Families.” They have expanded their business throughout the Northeast and Mickey Jamal, Chestnut Petroleum chief executive officer, has been a leading figure in the leadership of the New York Assn. of Convenience Stores.
Starting with a single gas station in 1980, Chestnut Petroleum has grown into a multi-faceted company with numerous retail gas stations and a thriving wholesale business. Chestnut Petroleum now operates more than 130 locations and dealer/commission agents. The company operates throughout Connecticut, New York and New Jersey, flying three flags: Shell, Exxon/Mobil and Sunoco.
When Mr. Jamal opened his first location in 1980, gas stations relied almost exclusively on fuel sales and vehicle repair services to make money. By 1987, long before most gas station owners made the inevitable switch—Mr. Jamal made the decision to eliminate auto repair entirely and focus on convenience stores only at his gas stations.
Since 1987, Chestnut Petroleum has focused on growing the convenience store and fuel distribution aspects of its business. Unlike many companies, Chestnut Petroleum isn’t content to merely sell gas.
“Anyone can deliver gas,” said Sam Jamal, Chestnut Petroleum chief financial officer. “To be the best wholesaler out there, we have to offer enhanced services. That’s why we offer our dealers so many benefits, such as insurance programs, power buying and other services. We offer these services to all of our dealers.”
