Gulf Expands Presence in Latin America with Subsidiary in Brazil
01 Jan 2024
Gulf Oil International Ltd. is consolidating its presence in Brazil by establishing a subsidiary Gulf Oil Brazil, commencing operations with the manufacturing and distribution of its lubricants from its own facility, and licensing its brand to fuel stations. This initiative underscores Gulf's commitment to the Latin American region and marks the beginning of a growth and collaboration cycle in the country.
The operation, which began in 2023, involved the acquisition of a lubricant manufacturing plant, the selection of a fuel station licensing partner for the brand, and the definition of short-term expansion goals, especially in sectors such as agriculture.
Under the leadership of Ramiro Ferrari, General Manager of Gulf Oil Brazil, a team of professionals with extensive experience in the oil market implemented the brand's matrix-planned strategy for Brazil. This plan is perfectly aligned with the proposed schedule to commence in 2024 with a consolidated and fully active operation.
Lubricants – For the production of Gulf lubricants catering to the automotive, motorcycle, diesel vehicle, industrial, and agricultural segments, a plant in Iperó – SP was acquired. The plant, with a production capacity of 3,000,000 litres per month in a single shift, features 12 filling lines, 47 tanks for basic oil storage, and over 4800 pallet positions for finished products.
The company's goal is to increase production to 4,500,000 litres per month in the coming months to meet its expansion plans in the market.
"Our main focus, in addition to ensuring compliance for the production of premium automotive lubricants such as Gulf Formula, Gulf Ultrasynth, and Gulf Pride, products recognized and accepted by the Brazilian market, was to ensure the maintenance of operations and commitment of the employees of the acquired plant through extensive sharing of Gulf's values and tradition," said Ramiro.
Previously available through a distributor in Brazil, the product range offer remains the same and is expected to see additions aligned with the global brand portfolio, expanding the range of lubricants, specifications, and applications.
Fuel stations – As a pioneering brand, responsible for the world's first retail fuel station in 1913, Gulf has established a legacy of leadership and continuous innovation in the segment, with its brand present in over 1400 fuel stations in 26 countries.
In partnership with Fit Combustíveis, the Gulf brand licensee for fuel stations in Brazil, the company aims to open 200 establishments with the Gulf brand by the end of this year. The work has already begun, and currently, 20 fuel stations are operating under the Gulf colours in the states of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, bringing all the benefits of the brand's tradition.
