United Petroleum Transports taps Rick Hoyle to lead dry bulk expansion

United Petroleum Transports and Florida Rock and Tank Lines named industry veteran Rick Hoyle president of the companies’ Dry Bulk Division on Sept. 24, 2026. The move is aimed at expanding dry bulk capacity, diversifying end markets and supporting the Blue Horizon Partners companies’ growth strategy.

Why it matters: - The hire gives United Petroleum Transports and Florida Rock and Tank Lines a dedicated leader for dry bulk as the companies push beyond fuel and chemical hauling. - The expansion is meant to broaden revenue streams, add new customers and create a more balanced platform for long-term growth. - The move also signals continued consolidation of dry bulk capabilities inside a larger transportation network with nationwide reach.

What happened: - United Petroleum Transports and Florida Rock and Tank Lines said Rick Hoyle joined the company as president of the Dry Bulk Division. - The announcement was made Sept. 24, 2026, in Oklahoma City. - The companies said the hire supports their growth strategy by expanding dry bulk capabilities and diversifying the end markets they serve. - Matt Herndon, president and CEO, said the companies saw an opportunity to expand after the launch of UPT’s dry bulk operations and Florida Rock and Tank Lines’ long-standing dry bulk business.

The details: - Hoyle founded Diamond Bulk Transportation in 1995 and grew it from a few trucks into a fleet of more than 600 trucks hauling cement, fly ash, clay and other industrial materials. - After selling Diamond Bulk Transportation in 2009, Hoyle helped other companies expand their dry bulk operations. - Hoyle later founded Xcel Bulk Logistics in 2021, and that business was later sold to a larger entity. - David Price, executive vice chairman, said expanding into dry bulk diversifies revenue streams and gives the companies access to new end markets. - Price said the division broadens the customer base and creates a more balanced platform for long-term growth. - Hoyle said success will require organic growth in current markets and strategic acquisitions to expand reach. - Hoyle said the Price family created a strong foundation for building out the dry bulk division.

Between the lines: - The hire suggests UPT and Florida Rock and Tank Lines are using specialized leadership to accelerate growth in a segment that can complement their core liquid hauling businesses. - The companies are leaning on existing infrastructure, industry expertise and a nationwide transportation network to open new opportunities without starting from scratch. - The emphasis on acquisitions and organic growth points to a strategy that combines internal expansion with deal-making. - The companies framed the move as part of a broader response to a more competitive transportation market.

What's next: - UPT and Florida Rock and Tank Lines plan to expand the dry bulk division using their existing infrastructure and nationwide network. - Hoyle is expected to lead growth through current-market expansion and strategic acquisitions. - The companies said the broader initiative is intended to position both businesses for continued success over the long term. - UPT and Florida Rock and Tank Lines will continue serving customers across the United States and Canada through their combined transportation platform.