History
SCPMA has a rich and interesting history. In 1919, W.J. Keenan of Columbia Petroleum Company (now Keenan Energy) and a few other pioneers in the oil business in South Carolina formed the South Carolina Oil Jobbers Association. Its purpose was to enable the members to buy product on better terms.
Early members included Keenan, T. Wilbur Thornhill of Charleston Oil Company, Spencer R. McMaster of Winnsboro Petroleum Company, and Frank Thompson of Anderson Petroleum Company. These men were listed on printed letterhead which has been traced to the late 20s or early 30s. It carried the "Iodine State" logo of the State of South Carolina, which received a copyright in 1928 and was used until the middle 30s.
The "original" SCOJA ceased in 1934, when President Franklin Roosevelt created the National Recovery Act and members disagreed with the Recovery Act code and thought the government was gaining too much control. In 1935, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled the National Recovery Act unconstitutional and SCOJA was reborn - this time as the South Carolina Independent Oil Jobbers Association.
In 1986, SCOJA changed its name to S.C. Petroleum Marketers Association (SCPMA). Today, SCPMA is comprised of marketers, convenience store owners and suppliers to the industry. SCPMA serves its members through lobbying, regulatory notices, continuing education and member publications. The organization serves as a united voice for the industry.
Like many industries, the petroleum marketing industry has undergone many changes in the past 70 years. But one thing about SCPMA remains constant - our commitment to provide petroleum marketers, convenience store owners, in-store suppliers, equipment and service suppliers and major oil companies with the strongest voice in the industry. From the mountains to the coast and all points in between, we're with you every mile!