Gulf service station network to launch in China

Gulf Oil International has reached an agreement to launch a Gulf-branded national service station network in China. The first 25 service stations in China are expected to be operational within the next 12 months.

Gulf Oil China has enjoyed considerable success in the last three years with the sales of its lubricants and the expansion of the Gulf brand into service stations is the logical next move.

Gulf’s partners for this new fuel retailing network is Beibei Energy.  This international company boasts vast expertise in setting up and running service station networks and its principals and executives are drawn from various major fuel brands. The plan is to establish 1,000-1,200 Gulf service stations in the medium term.

“It is obviously a very exciting development for the brand,” says Gulf Oil International Vice President International, Frank Rutten. “Gulf’s growth in China has been extremely rapid and, in Beibei Energy, we have a partner whose credentials are very impressive and whom I know can be relied on not only to make a successful introduction of the Gulf brand to fuel service stations and fuel retail in China, but also to ensure that the necessary quality of product and service is delivered, in order to convert customers to Gulf.”

By entering into a partnership with Manchester United it has been possible for Gulf to get much closer to the hearts and minds of millions of consumers across the world. This has certainly accelerated its entry into China’s service station market, the company said in a statement.
“This is a perfect example of the power of a strong and creative partnership.  Gulf and Manchester United have been working together for more than two years now and from the outset, the company’s commitment to China was clear. Bespoke Gulf and Manchester United events in Shenyang, Qingdao and Zhengzhou, coupled with a strong Gulf presence at the popular #ILOVEUNITED match screening events held for Chinese fans, have demonstrated a significant level of engagement with our fans in China.  The Gulf Fan Academy, to be launched later in the year will deepen that relationship, with customized Manchester United content for supporters in China,” said Manchester United’s Group Managing Director, Richard Arnold.

“With over 100 million Manchester United followers in China, Gulf’s partnership with the club is stronger than ever and we look forward to expanding it further through these exciting new service stations.”