Who We Are

Since 1920, our Association has served as the voice in Springfield for petroleum distributors and convenience store businesses. Our slogan is “Neighbors Serving Neighbors,” and it’s more than a slogan: it’s at the core of everything we do.

The Association is a trade association made up of businesses ranging from small family run establishments all the way up to publicly traded international corporations and everyone in between, representing primarily petroleum marketers and convenience stores but having much broader reach.

We fuel Illinois’ economy:

Our members drive it all forward, by providing refined petroleum fuel and other products from the pipeline terminal to the motoring public, government and business. We collect, administer and turn in more than $2 billion in Illinois state motor fuel taxes each year.

Some users purchase gas from our members, but it’s not all taxed. All gallonage must be accounted for to the Illinois Department of Revenue by our distributors.
• 6.5 billion gallons of taxable fuel a year
• 5.4 billion gallons of non-taxable fuel a year – 12,000 government and business customers
• 99.9 percent compliance – higher than any other Illinois tax!

We’re here to make your businesses stronger, to give them the insight they need and influence they deserve with state government. When we do our jobs right, our members make more profits.

We are on the frontlines working with the Governor, state agencies such as the Lottery, Department of Revenue and Office of the State Fire Marshal, the Legislature and all of their counterparts in Washington to support and oppose legislation that affects our member businesses.

Our services provide real value to our members, from coupon redemption and employee background checks to DOT drug testing. We keep members updated on ever-changing state laws and rules and help with required postings on canopies and inside stores. Our publications, educational seminars and meetings all come with one goal: keep you informed and engaged, to protect and promote your business!

Board of Directors

Executive Committee:

  • John McGovern, President - Osco Inc.

  • Tony Spuzello, 1st Vice President - Casey’s General Stores

  • Rick Mistretta, 2nd Vice President - Prairie State Energy LLC

  • Todd Huels, 3rd Vice President - Huels Oil Co.

  • Dawn Vaubel, Treasurer - Baron-Huot Oil Co.

  • Nate Harris, Executive Vice President & Chief Executive Officer

Board Directors:

  • Landon Bayley, Director - Martin & Bayley

  • Mark Gardner, Director - Growmark Inc.

  • Tom Kirby, Director - Love’s Travel Stops

  • Alan Meyer, Director - Meyer Oil Company

  • Steve Kottak, Director - R.J. Reynolds

  • Nate Meyer, Director - Stenstrom Petroleum Services Group

  • Dale Feece, Director - Feece Oil Company

Meet the Team

  • CEO

    Nate joined IFRA as CEO in July 2025 after serving as the Legislative Director for a state health care association and prior to that, as an attorney and political staffer to the Illinois Senate Democrats.

    With experience in state political, legislative and regulatory work, Nate excels at government relations and accomplishing member objectives.

    Nate@fuelingillinois.com

  • Director of Communications & Events

    Meggie is the go-to resource for all association events - managing everything from registration and sponsorship opportunities to planning and on-site execution.

    Meggie also serves as the Exhibitor Relations contact for the regional Midwest tradeshow, M-PACT, ensuring a seamless experience for all exhibiting companies.

    In addition to her events and communications responsibilities, Meggie oversees several key member services, including the IFRA Drug Testing Program, helping members maintain DOT compliance with required drug and alcohol screenings and the Work Opportunity Tax Credit program.

    Meggie@fuelingillinois.com

  • Director of Finance & Membership

    Matt plays a key role in managing the organization’s financial operations and overseeing member services. He is the primary point of contact for inquiries related to membership, dues, and the wide range of services offered by the Association.

    In addition to his financial responsibilities, Matt administers the Illinois State Background Check program for our members and manages enrollment in the Association’s Multiple Employer Plan. His expertise ensures that IFRA members receive the support and resources they need to thrive in Illinois’ dynamic fuel and retail landscape.

    Matt@fuelingillinois.com