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WESTERN MARKETING ACHIEVES HIGHEST CHEVRON LUBRICANT RECOGNITION- – WINNING THE EAGLE AWARD TWO CONSECUTIVE YEARS RUNNING

December 18, 2013

Western Marketing Inc. (WMI) receives Chevron’s highest honor for distributors of its lubricants – the 2013 Eagle Award- 2nd consecutive year.

Each year Chevron honors its top-performing 1st Source Lubrication Marketer with the celebrated Eagle Award. Western Marketing has earned this recognition for the second year in a row, based upon the highest Recognition Score for achieving significant performance milestones in the sale of Chevron premium lubricants and coolants over the preceding twelve months. Receipt of the Eagle Award demonstrates Western Marketing’s commitment to training and service excellence in providing Chevron lubricants to its customers. Earning this recognition requires a focus on the sale of premium lubricants and coolants, year-over-year volume growth and delivery of superior value to customers. Chevron’s senior management announced this industry achievement at their Annual Leadership Forum held in Scottsdale, AZ where over 500 representatives of their top-performing distributor were present.

Mike Miller, Western Marketing’s president and chief executive officer stated “WMI has consistently ranked amongst the highest of Chevron’s marketers based upon performance, customer satisfaction and growth, so it’s really special to be recognized with this honor. Earning the Eagle Award, in back-to-back years with Chevron, is fantastic!”

Wayne Ederer, Chevron’s Manager-Lubrication Marketer, Sales emphasized “In the history of this prestigious award it’s uncommon for same marketer to win it in consecutive years. The fact that WMI won twice demonstrates their unparalleled passion and commitment to the Chevron lubricants business.”

Western Marketing services the truck fleets, industrial, agricultural, automotive repair shops and dealerships sectors. Those interested in more information can contact the Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, Longview, Texas and Stroud, Oklahoma sales offices to learn more about the lubrication services and products offered. In addition to providing lubricants throughout West Texas and Oklahoma, WMI is the primary supplier of BlueDEF™ diesel exhaust fluid across the region, carries over 4,500 automotive-related items in its warehouses and stocks over one million gallons of bulk motor oils and coolants.

Western Marketing Inc. is a leading, multi-branded distributor of lubricants including heavy-duty motor oil, specialized industrial lubricants and natural gas engine oils. For more information about the Chevron products and services provided contact them at 1-800-588-4662, visit www.westmktg.com or e-mail Info@westmktg.com.

 

News12 Presents an Eye Opening, Three Part Series about Bad Motor Oils on Shelves

December 18, 2013

News12, in cooperation with the Petroleum Quality Institute of America (PQIA), aired a three part investigative series on a serious issue all car owners, and lubricant manufacturers and marketers should be aware of; bad engine oils in the market.   

This is a must see series for lubricant blenders, marketers, and most importantly, consumers!  

News12 Presents an Eye Opening, Three Part Series about Bad Motor Oils on Shelves

December 12, 2013

News12, in cooperation with the Petroleum Quality Institute of America (PQIA), is airing a three part investigative series on a serious issue all car owners, and lubricant manufacturers and marketers should be aware of; bad engine oils in the market.

This is a must see series for lubricant blenders, marketers, and most importantly, consumers!

Click below for the Parts 1 and 2.

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Calumet Specialty Products Partners, L.P. Acquires Bel-Ray Company, Inc.

December 10, 2013

Calumet Specialty Products Partners, L.P., a leading independent producer of specialty hydrocarbon and fuel products, today announced that it acquired the Bel-Ray Company, Inc., a manufacturer and global distributor of high-performance lubricants.  

Privately-held Bel-Ray manufacturers and distributes a wide array of high-end specialty lubricants sold through its Industrial, Mining and Powersports divisions.  Founded in 1946 by William Kiefer, Bel-Ray’s products are sold in more than 100 countries across six continents.  The company owns and operates a 32-acre manufacturing facility in New Jersey with convenient access to ports in New York, Newark and Philadelphia.  Bel-Ray is managed by Mr. Kiefer’s daughter, Daryl Bronson, who has led the company’s growth since his retirement in 1995.

A spokesperson for Bel-Ray says. “For nearly 70 years, Bel-Ray’s high performance lubrication technologies have been engineered to set the highest standards of quality, value and performance.  Today, Bel-Ray’s specialty lubricants are widely accepted as a brand of choice used in the aerospace, automotive, energy, food, marine, military, mining, motorcycle, powersports, steel and textiles industries.”

“This transaction signals our ongoing commitment to growing a global specialty products business,” stated Jennifer Straumins, President and COO of Calumet Specialty Products Partners.  “Bel-Ray will join an existing portfolio of market-leading specialty products brands that include our Royal Purple line of high-performance synthetic lubricants and our Penreco line of FDA-registered food-grade products.”

“Bel-Ray’s New Jersey-based manufacturing plant will provide us with an East Coast facility capable of serving both domestic and export markets,” continued Straumins.  “This facility, which currently produces lubricating oils and greases, has ample capacity to supply incremental customer demand for our products.”

“Given the private, fragmented nature of the specialty products markets we occupy, Calumet remains an active consolidator of established, profitable businesses that complement our existing product portfolio,” concluded Straumins.

“We are excited by the potential opportunities stemming from this transaction and look forward to having the employees of Bel-Ray join the Calumet family of companies,” stated Bryan Yourdon, President of Royal Purple and Calumet’s Vice President of Branded and Packaged Products. “

As a globally recognized specialty lubricants brand, Bel-Ray provides us with an entry point into new customers and geographies where we will have an opportunity to cross-sell our existing lines of products, such as Royal Purple, among others,” continued Yourdon.  “Over time, we will seek to pursue the acquisition of additional branded specialty product lines that help us to further achieve profitable growth on a global scale.”

Latham & Watkins LLP acted as legal counsel to Calumet with respect to this transaction. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

About Calumet Specialty Products Partners, L.P.
Calumet Specialty Products Partners, L.P. is a master limited partnership and is a leading independent producer of high-quality, specialty hydrocarbon products in North America. Calumet processes crude oil and other feedstocks into customized lubricating oils, solvents and waxes used in consumer, industrial and automotive products. Calumet also produces fuel products including gasoline, diesel and jet fuel.  Calumet is based in Indianapolis, Indiana and has eleven facilities located in northwest Louisiana, northwest Wisconsin, northern Montana, western Pennsylvania, Texas and eastern Missouri.

 

Retail Prices Can be Telling

December 6, 2013

The price for conventional passenger car motor oil (PCMO) at the leading big box retailer increased by 10.3% from the summer of 2011 to December 2013. Synthetic engine oils increased by 16.6%, as shown below.

Interestingly, while the retail price of synthetic motor oils are enjoying robust growth, the retail price of high-mileage motor oils seem to be leveling off. Also of note, the retail price for the store brand has increased significantly over the past two years in all three product tiers.

 

Chevron Announces October 2013 Inductees to the Delo Sponsored Million Mile Club

December 6, 2013

Chevron Products Company, a Chevron U.S.A. Inc. division, maker of the Delo® brand of technologically advanced engine oils, lubricants and coolants, today announced the eight drivers inducted to the Chevron Delo sponsored Red Eye Radio Million Mile Club in October 2013.

“Chevron is committed to the health and safety of its employees and contractors worldwide – safety is a key part of our company’s DNA. With such a strong focus on safety, we eagerly support other safety efforts in the communities and industries where we operate. Sponsoring the Million Mile Club is an example of our ongoing commitment to safety and our desire to recognize and promote accomplishments in this area,” commented Jim Gambill, North America Commercial and Industrial Brands Manager, Chevron Products Company.

Million Mile Club October 2013 Inductees:

• James Gray, Cordell Transportation
• James E. Crump, USA Truck, Inc.
• Andre Robinson, Freymiller
• Daryl McKinzie, Mercer Transportation Co.
• Mark Ewbank, White Trucking
• Ralph Martinez, Jr., YRC Frt.
• Jeanne Ochlan, Tye Dye Trucking
• Robert Lindsay, GST Transport Systems

Chevron congratulates these drivers for their outstanding accomplishments and commitment to safety.

 

Warren Oil Starts Up New Grease Manufacturing Facility

November 5, 2013

Warren Oil announced completion of a new grease manufacturing plant located at its West Memphis lubricant blending and packaging facility. The new grass-roots grease plant has the capacity to manufacture 10,000,000 pounds of grease annually.

The plant comprises two large grease kettles that are now up and running. In addition, it operates with state of the art milling and packaging equipment. Whereas, it has the ability to produce virtually any type of grease, the operation will initially focus on such prime movers as lithium and calcium soap-based greases. These will be available in a wide range of NLGI grades and package types, including tubes, kegs, and 400lb drums, totes, and bulk.

Irvin Warren, President and CEO, Warren Oil, says “The addition of the West Memphis grease plant allows us to offer a complete product selection across the entire spectrum of the Heavy Duty, Automotive, Industrial, and Agricultural lubricant segments. And this enhances our ability to go to market with more high quality products at the competitive price point our customers are accustomed to.”

Warren believes the addition of its new grease plant will be welcomed by consumers due to several market conditions. First, Warren says the US market is mature, and although demand for grease in the US will increase as the economy improves, the robust days of growth are behind us. Because of this, the fact that grease making requires a high level of expertise, and other reasons, the number of grease manufacturers competing in the US market has declined significantly over the past two decades. “This leaves buyers of grease with fewer producers to select from and that is not a good place for buyers to be,” says Mr. Warren. To this he adds, “We believe choice is good for heavy duty, automotive, industrial, and agricultural lubricant buyers and we are confident they will choose Warren Oil now that they have the choice.”

For more information contact Chris Spell: 910-694-1173

About Warren Oil
Warren Oil Co., headquartered in Dunn, North Carolina, is one of the largest Independent Lubricant Manufacturers in North America. Warren Oil operates manufacturing facilities in Marion, IL, Johnstown, PA, Dunn, NC, San Antonio, TX. Benton, AL, and West Memphis, Arkansas. Warren Oil Company engages in compounding, blending, and packaging Automotive, Agricultural, Heavy Duty, and Industrial Lubricants and Chemicals. Products offered by Warren include, engine oils, transmission fluids, hydraulic oils, gear oils, oil spill cleaners, oil dry, Diesel Exhaust fluid, and other products. Warren also offers Synthetic Lubricants and offers Private Label packaging.

 

Heritage-Crystal Clean, Inc. Announces the Acquisition of Used Oil Collection Service Territories in the Great Lakes Region

November 5, 2013

Heritage-Crystal Clean, Inc. a leading provider of parts cleaning, used oil re-refining, and hazardous and non-hazardous waste services primarily focused on small and mid-sized customers, announced the signing of an asset purchase agreement by its subsidiary Heritage – Crystal Clean, LLC to acquire certain assets of RS Used Oil Services Inc., a subsidiary of Universal Lubricants LLC.

The acquired business includes service routes covering Indiana, Ohio, Wisconsin and portions of Illinois. Based on the historical performance of the business, the Company expects the transaction will result in additional used oil collection volume of approximately 8 million gallons per year. The used oil collection volume from this transaction will serve as an important source of supply for the Company’s used oil re-refinery in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Mr. Joseph Chalhoub, Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Heritage-Crystal Clean, Inc. commented: “We are very pleased to be adding the RS Used Oil Services personnel, in the selected area, to our team and their assets to our organization. We expect this acquisition will allow us to improve the overall efficiency of our used oil collection fleet and move us closer to our long term goal of collecting enough used oil to supply 100% of the feedstock required by our re-refinery.”

Chalhoub added: “With this acquisition, we expect to add approximately 3,800 new customers. The new used oil collection routes should fit nicely into our existing branch infrastructure and provide us the opportunity to offer additional value, beyond used oil collection, to these customers.”

Mr. Mark DeVita, Chief Financial Officer of HCCI added: “This transaction is our largest acquisition to date, and we expect it to integrate smoothly into our branch network. The consideration is all cash, paid out of our available cash on hand.”

Universal Lubricants and RS Used Oil Services will continue to operate its used oil collection business in all areas in the Midwestern and Southern United States not covered by this asset purchase agreement, including portions of Illinois served from their facility in Roxana, Illinois (St. Louis area). Universal Lubricants also will continue to sell finished lubricants and related products to customers throughout the United States.

Source: Globe Newswire

 

Mobil 1 Proves Performance with Live Engine Teardown

November 5, 2013

During live broadcast, ExxonMobil to dismantle Lucky Cab Chevrolet taxi engine, showcasing Mobil 1’s performance and protection for social media viewers.

LAS VEGAS, Nov 05, 2013 (BUSINESS WIRE) – The live engine teardown will be broadcast from the Lucky Cab Company garage in Las Vegas and streamed online, as well as in ExxonMobil’s booth at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show

In order to showcase the superior protection and performance of Mobil 1, ExxonMobil will host a live broadcast of an engine teardown in Las Vegas on Thursday, Nov. 7 at 1:00 p.m. EST. The broadcast, shot live from Lucky Cab’s garage in Las Vegas, will feature the deconstruction of a Chevrolet Impala engine that ran for 120,079 miles as one of the taxis in Lucky Cab’s fleet.

The live broadcast, which will be streamed online via Mobil 1’s Facebookpage and shown in ExxonMobil’s booth at SEMA, will be hosted by ESPN/ABC NASCAR analyst/reporter Marty Smith. The broadcast will also feature the perspective of third-party lubricant technology expert Michael Pansza as well as that of Roger Hood, Mobil 1 technical advisor, and Chuck Goldmann, Mobil 1 global proof of performance team lead.

“The live engine teardown is an exciting opportunity for us to showcase the protection that Mobil 1 provides all vehicles, especially ones that are put through such grueling conditions like the fleet of Lucky Cab taxis,” says Sean Houts, ExxonMobil Fuels & Lubricants, Americas Automotive Marketing. “We are so confident in how Mobil 1 will perform that we’ll tear down an engine live. At the same time, there’s no better atmosphere for such a broadcast than Las Vegas during SEMA, where some of the industry’s most passionate and educated professionals convene.”

Vehicles in Las Vegas face some of the harshest climate conditions anywhere. The combination of extremely high heat in the summer and near-freezing temperatures in the winter put significant pressure on motor oils to provide protection in the most grueling of circumstances. Paired with the stop-and-go traffic and constant running that a taxi cab engine endures, there are few vehicles that are put through more of a grind than Lucky Cab taxis.

“Our long-standing partnership with Mobil 1 has consistently provided our fleet with unmatched engine and wear protection,” said Donald Chan, Lucky Cab general manager. “The detailed breakdown of this broadcast will give the audience an intimate peek into how fully synthetic motor oil can truly benefit and extend the life of an engine.”

 

Michigan Orders Another Bad Motor Oil Off its Shelves!

October 8, 2013

Rick Snyder, Governor of Michigan, Attorney General Bill Schuette, and Jamie Clover Adams, Director MDARD take clear and decisive action to once again protect its citizens from engine damaging motor oils.

In what is starting to look like a crackdown to protect its citizens from lubricant manufacturers taking advantage of the citizens of Michigan, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) now issues a Stop-Use and Stop-Removal Orderon all motor oils sold by Bullseye Automotive Lubricants, Inc. under the Bullseye brand.

This is the second Stop-Use and Stop-Removal Order the state of Michigan issued in the past 30 days. The first was a Stop-Use Stop Removal issued on City Petroleum (doing business as City Star) of Dearborn and Star Petroleum of Detroit after finding the products did not comply with the Michigan Weights and Measures Act, 1964 Public Act 283.

The MDARD says it has conducted a state-wide investigation over the past 12 months, including sampling and testing of motor oils from retail shelves, and found that products manufactured, packaged, and/or distributed by Bullseye Automotive Lubricants consistently contained less product than the label represents.

In addition, MDARD says laboratory tests of the Bullseye motor oils have consistently demonstrated that the product does not meet the labeled viscosity grade specifications as required in the current version of SAE J300. As such, the packaging of these products is misleading and does not conform to the packaging requirements in section 3.1 of the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulations contained in the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Handbook 130. Use of these products may damage vehicles and engines.

The MDARD actions mean these products should no longer be used, immediately be removed from store shelves or other product displays, and no longer offered for sale in the state of Michigan.

Click for more.

 

The Lubricant Model of the Future?

October 8, 2013

It seems like only yesterday lubricant marketers were talking about ExxonMobil’s lubricant marketer model of the future. A model many said was built around that of Anheuser-Busch beer distribution. It was a model where marketers are single branded and look, talk, and think like the major they represent.

Although that model may have shaped what an ExxonMobil lubricant marketer and others look like today, there is one petroleum marketer that ExxonMobil may not have considered when it rolled out its distributor model of the future. That marketer is McMahan Oil Company in Maryland.

Whereas ExxonMobil was reportedly working to shape its lubricant marketers into performing like those selling beer for Anheuser-Busch, McMahan Oil decided it was time to exit the petroleum distribution business and give it a go at manufacturing and marketing craft beer.

Although McMahan Oil Company used to be a bustling fuel oil distributor, Tim Miller, Owner, Vice President at McMahan Oil Company had his vision set on something else and likely more profitable. And like the ExxonMobil distributor model of the future, Tim was thinking beer. That’s when he purchased the National Premium trademark for what he described as “a bargain.”  With that, rather than selling petroleum products, Tim is now looking to convert the family petroleum distribution business into a brewery manufacturing and marketing a pilsner-style lager that has deep roots in the fabric of Baltimore and beyond.

God bless him. For those that may have missed it, it appears Tim Miller is well on his way to success. He was featured this weekend on American Pickers selling rare Esso and Amoco signs and other petroleum memorabilia that was gathering dust at his petroleum distribution business for generations. That exposure will go a long way to help build the new business.

Best of luck Tim! It’s hard not to cheer you on after seeing that show.

 

Eni USA R&M Expanding Presence in North America and in Search of New Distributors in Southern Region of the US

September 24, 2013

Eni USA R&M subsidiary of Eni S.p.A. (seventh largest integrated multinational oil and gas company headquartered in Italy present in 90 countries) plans to go beyond its historical business area of Quebec, Ontario, eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York boroughs where it has sold its high quality lubricants since 1987.

In the last two years, Eni USA R&M changed its business model by selling its products mostly through distributors instead of direct selling to its customers. For this reason Eni USA R&M signed marketing partnership agreements with PPC Lubricants for New Jersey and Eastern Ohio; Polsinello Fuels for the New York state and Southern Connecticut; Simon Giguere for Quebec province and J&R Young for Eastern Pennsylvania.

Eni USA R&M strongly believes that this business model will assure fast growth in the North America market and is actively contacting additional distributors that have the capacity and the professional knowledge to expand their business network. Currently the new target area of expansion is the Southern part of United States and the commercial activities have begun in the search of new distributors in this region.

A spokesperson for Eni USA R&M said its blending facility and technical center located in Cabot, PA will still continue to produce all high quality lubricants that the company markets, being a strategic asset for the growth. Eni USA R&M product lines cover passenger cars, heavy duty, industrial, and marine market sections. Especially eni full synthetic engine oils with OEM specifications (eni i-Sint product line) are said to be worldwide best sellers and strong weapons to penetrate the North American market.

And they add, “Eni USA R&M has the product technology, experience and resources to achieve the challenging target of growth in a very competitive North American market.”

 

Valvoline to Partner With Hendrick Motorsports

September 24, 2013

Valvoline™, a leading marketer, distributor and producer of quality branded automotive and industrial products and services, will be reunited with Hendrick Motorsports after  finalizing a multi-year sponsorship agreement that will kick off next  season.

 The Official Lubricants Partner of Hendrick Motorsports beginning in 2014, the Valvoline brand will be featured as a major associate sponsor of the team’s full stable of Chevrolet SS race cars through the 2017 NASCAR campaign. The company will utilize Sprint Cup Series drivers Kasey Kahne, Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson and Dale Earnhardt Jr. as spokespeople to promote Valvoline premium motor oil products and services.

In addition, Valvoline will be the preferred oil poured by Hendrick Motorsports’ sister company, Hendrick Automotive Group, which operates 87 auto dealerships across the United States. The dealerships also will use Valvoline professional series, a line of fuel system preventive maintenance products that increase fuel economy and drivability, and Valvoline antifreeze. Both product lines contain patented technology that provides exceptional performance.

“The Valvoline team is thrilled to partner with Hendrick Motorsports and continue the long history of winning on the track for both organizations,” said Sam Mitchell, president of Ashland Consumer Markets. “Both companies have a strong heritage and similar values with employees driven by hard work, commitment to innovation and passion for cars. This is going to be an exciting and great relationship.”

Beginning in 2014, Hendrick Motorsports will use Valvoline products in its Chevrolet R-07 racing engines in the elite Sprint Cup Series. Valvoline was a partner of the team from 1993-95, supplying lubricant technology that contributed to the organization’s first Cup championship with Gordon.

“When I was 14 years old, I won my first drag race with Valvoline in the car,” said Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports and chairman of Hendrick Automotive Group. “It’s an innovative American brand that has great racing heritage and a winning history with our organization. This is the company that basically invented motor oil, and we’re excited about having them as a corporate sponsor and hands-on technology partner.”

“Our dealerships are proud to offer a trusted product like Valvoline as our preferred oil. Hendrick Automotive Group stores serviced nearly 2 million vehicles last year, and we know our customers can rely on Valvoline’s performance in the same way our racing engineers will.”

Source: Hendrick Motorsports
Valvoline will Replace Quaker State Oil at Hendrick Motorsports

 

Matrix Announces the Successful Sale of Rogers Petroleum, Inc.’s Seventeen Company Operated Convenience Stores

September 24, 2013

Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc. (“Matrix”) announce the successful sale of Rogers Petroleum, Inc.’s seventeen company operated convenience stores to Lehigh Gas Partners LP  and Lehigh Gas – Ohio, LLC.  All of Rogers’ stores are located in the Tri-Cities region of eastern Tennessee and southwestern Virginia and offer motor fuels in addition to traditional convenience merchandise.

Rogers Petroleum, Inc. is a privately-held family-owned business that was founded in 1980 by Mr. Don Rogers and his wife, Penney.  The Company is involved in various businesses including motor fuels distribution, fuels transportation, lubricants, convenience store operations, and other related businesses.  Rogers opened its first convenience store in 1990 and subsequently grew the business through its Zoomerz convenience store brand.  Many of the Zoomerz stores were acquired from ExxonMobil during the mid-90’s.

Matrix provided merger and acquisition advisory services to Rogers, which included valuation advisory, transaction structuring, marketing, and negotiating the definitive asset purchase agreement. Don Rogers, Chairman of Rogers Petroleum, Inc. commented, “We are very appreciative of the work that Matrix provided us.  They were able to design and execute on a confidential sale process that resulted in an outcome that exceeded our expectations.” The transaction was led and managed by Cedric Fortemps, a Managing Director in Matrix’s Energy and Multi-Site Retail Group (“EMR”). Mr. Fortemps commented, “We are honored to have been chosen to advise on the sale of these stores and to help provide the Rogers family with the liquidity and capital they were seeking for retirement planning and reinvestment in their other business operations.”  Thomas Kelso, Managing Director and Head of Matrix’s EMR Group and Stephen Lynch, Associate, also advised on the transaction.  Mr. Kelso added, “Having known Don for over twenty-five years, we really enjoyed working with him and Rogers’ CEO, Chris Liposky, to help them successfully exit the convenience store business.”

 

Glenroy, Inc. and Lube-Tech Introduce First Stand-up Oil Pouch in U.S. Power Sports Industry

September 24, 2013

Glenroy, Inc. a converter and printer of flexible packaging, and Lube-Tech, a leading OEM lubricant formulator, have collaborated in developing the first stand-up oil pouch in the U.S. power sports industry. Engineered for Arctic Cat’s innovative new C-TEC2 Synthetic engine oil, the stand-up pouch is designed for easy pouring, convenient storage, waste reduction, and superior shelf impact.

Arctic Cat and Lube-Tech desired a durable package for C-TEC2 Synthetic 2-cycle oil that would provide visibility and convenience for consumers, reinforce the high-performance, environmentally-conscious characteristics of the new engine and oil, and provide high-barrier properties to protect the integrity of the high-performance synthetic oil blend. Lube-Tech developed initial concepts of flexible packaging options, and worked with Glenroy, Inc. to engineer and produce the final stand-up pouch.

The C-TEC2 Synthetic oil pouch brings a new level of convenience to snowmobile oils. The lightweight and durable flexible pouch allows for convenient storage within an Arctic Cat snowmobile, while the pouch’s tamper-evident easy-pour spout and ergonomic angled handle facilitate fast and easy pouring of oil into the snowmobile’s compact oil reservoir.

The flexible pouch also provides several environmental benefits. As compared to a rigid oil bottle, the flexible pouch:

• Requires less energy and generates less CO2 emissions during production.
• Results in a higher product-to-package ratio.
• Requires fewer trucks for transportation, reducing fossil fuel consumption and CO2 emission.
• Produces significantly less landfill waste through source reduction.

A final important benefit that the flexible pouch provides is increased surface area to present the product’s benefits and attention-grabbing Arctic Cat graphics. Compared to an industry standard 32 oz. F-style quart bottle-which provides a total label area of approximately 29 square inches-the flexible stand-up pouch provides almost 200 square inches of printed surface area, and poises the product to stand out on retail shelves.

Arctic Cat’s C-TEC2 Synthetic 2-cycle oil has been formulated specifically for Arctic Cat’s groundbreaking C-TEC2 2-cycle engine. This new snowmobile engine is designed to use significantly less oil than any previous Arctic Cat 2-cycle engine-by as much as 50 percent. The unique design and oil delivery system of the engine required the formulation of a new synthetic oil blend with lighter viscosity and ideal cold temperature performance properties not available in other oils.

According to Tom Schaefer, Lubricant Supervisor at Arctic Cat, “With our cutting-edge new engine design and oil formulation, we were thrilled when Lube-Tech suggested developing this innovative packaging for our C-TEC2 oil. We are proud to be at the forefront of the power sports industry with this new packaging. It will make the use of the product easier, while reducing waste. Plus, it gave us significantly more printable surface area to tell the C-TEC2 story and display the eye-catching graphics.”

 

Clean Harbors Announces Acquisition of Evergreen Oil

September 17, 2013

Clean Harbors Acquires One of California’s Largest Waste Oil Collectors and Environmental Services Operator with Only Re-refinery in the State

Clean Harbors, Inc., the leading provider of environmental, energy and industrial services throughout North America, announced that it has acquired Evergreen Oil, Inc. out of bankruptcy through the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Central District of California.  Evergreen Oil is a California-based environmental services company that is one of the state’s largest collectors of waste oil and runs the only re-refinery in the state. Clean Harbors is funding the $60 million transaction through available cash on its balance sheet.

The acquisition of Evergreen Oil is beneficial to Clean Harbors on a number of fronts:

• Expands Clean Harbors’ geographic footprint in re-refining to include coverage in the Western U.S. – complementing its Indiana facility in the Midwest and Breslau facility in Eastern Canada;
• Provides Clean Harbors with the second-largest collector of waste oil in California; and
• Provides Clean Harbors with a number of valuable ancillary waste assets, including a permitted Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facility (TSDF).

“Our acquisition of Evergreen aligns well with our Safety-Kleen re-refinery and environmental businesses, and creates multiple opportunities for profitable growth,” said Alan S. McKim, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “California is an attractive market for us, and Evergreen has a strong presence in the state.  Given the financial incentives available in California and that used oil is designated as hazardous, the addition of Evergreen will contribute to Safety-Kleen’s ongoing initiative to lower its pay-for-oil (PFO) costs.”

“We believe that we are purchasing this asset at a favorable price for our shareholders,” McKim said. “While we plan to invest some capital into the re-refinery to enhance its layout and productivity, the plant is relatively new, with major portions of it having been rebuilt following a fire at the facility in 2011.  In addition to the re-refinery, the purchase includes rolling stock and equipment, a diverse roster of West Coast customer accounts, an ancillary hazardous waste business and a TSDF in Carson, California – a state where stringent permitting requirements create barriers to entry.”

We are excited about the overall potential for the Evergreen assets.  Given our acquisition expertise and track record, we are confident that our integration teams can realize substantial upside potential from our combined company. We look forward to welcoming Evergreen’s employees into the Clean Harbors and Safety-Kleen family,” McKim concluded.

About Clean Harbors
Clean Harbors (NYSE: CLH) is the leading provider of environmental, energy and industrial services throughout North America. The Company serves a diverse customer base, including a majority of the Fortune 500 companies, thousands of smaller private entities and numerous federal, state, provincial and local governmental agencies. Through its Safety-Kleen subsidiary, Clean Harbors also is a premier provider of used oil recycling and re-refining, parts washers and environmental services for the small quantity generator market.

Headquartered in Massachusetts, Clean Harbors has waste disposal facilities and service locations throughout the United States and Canada, as well as Mexico and Puerto Rico.  For more information, visit www.cleanharbors.com.

Michigan Takes Action to Protect Car Owners From Bad Oil. Orders City Star/Star Petroleum Motor Oils and ATFs off the Shelves!

September 17, 2013

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) issued Stop-Use and Stop-Removal Orders for motor oil and transmission fluid manufactured, packaged, and/or distributed by City Petroleum (dba City Star) of Dearborn and Star Petroleum of Detroit after finding the products did not comply with  the Michigan Weights and Measures Act, 1964 Public Act 283.

The Stop-Use and Stop-Removal Orders prohibit the sale, offering for sale, or use of motor oils or transmission fluids manufactured, packaged, and/or distributed by City Petroleum (dba City Star) and/or Star Petroleum. These products should no longer be used, immediately be removed from store shelves or other product displays, and no longer be offered for sale. These products may cause damage to vehicle engines.

As part of an 11 month investigation, MDARD discovered that the motor oil and transmission fluids being sold by these companies do not contain the amount of product claimed. Additionally, the motor oil does not meet the viscosity labeled on the containers. For example, a container may say the product is an “SAE 5W30” motor oil, but does not meet that viscosity or other specifications for a motor oil.

“These two companies are selling sub-standard product and the Stop-Use and Stop-Removal Orders ensure Michigan consumers and business alike are getting what they pay for and protecting their vehicles,” said Jamie Clover Adams, MDARD Director. “When products don’t meet viscosity levels it can cause lasting damage to vehicles. So, it’s vital that consumers and business stop using or selling these products immediately.”

The Stop-Use and Stop-Removal orders mean no City Petroleum or Star Petroleum motor oil or transmission fluid may be sold or used in the State of Michigan. The products may be properly disposed of in accordance with local ordinances, taken to a facility that recycles oil, or consumers may contact the company directly. Information regarding the proper disposal of these products can be found at http://www.earth911.org.

The City Petroleum and Star Petroleum products were primarily sold at small independent gas stations, discount and party stores. It is possible they were also sold in some oil change facilities across the state. Consumers can visit www.michigan.gov/mdard  and look under the “Hot News” section for photos of the product labels as well as information on what to look for when buying motor oil.

Also… See www.pqia.org

 

Round 2 of Price Increases in 2013

September 17, 2013

We are now looking at the second round of price increases in 2013. The first round took place in April (click for details).  A summary of some of the price increases announced in this second round follows below:

Susser Holdings Acquires Wholesale Fuel & Lubricants Distributor Serving Oilfield Clients in Texas and Oklahoma

September 17, 2013

Susser Holdings Corporation (SUSS) and Susser Petroleum Partners LP (SUSP) announced that SUSS has completed the acquisition of Gainesville Fuels Inc., which operates a wholesale fuel and lubricants distribution business selling approximately 60 million gallons of diesel annually to oil and gas producers in northern Texas and southern Oklahoma.  SUSS will contribute the acquired company to SUSP.

“We would like to extend a warm welcome to the employees and customers of Gainesville Fuel.  The Gainesvilleacquisition gives us access to new geographic wholesale markets in North Texas and Southern Oklahoma,” said Sam L. Susser, president and chief executive officer of Susser Holdings.

“By combining the Gainesville business with our existing commercial fuels business serving customers in the Permian basin, we expect to realize operating and procurement synergies. We also have the opportunity to expand sales to existing customers in these new service areas,” Susser said.

Management expects that the contribution of the company to SUSP will occur within the next few days.  In connection with this value-for-value exchange, SUSP will assume Gainesville’s existing indebtedness and certain other liabilities, and will issue $2.0 million in SUSP common units to SUSS. SUSS expects to immediately record a one-time non-cash deferred tax charge of approximately $3.6 million arising from the contribution of goodwill from a taxable entity (SUSS) to a non-taxable entity (SUSP) in connection with this transaction.

Beginning in 2014, the acquisition is expected to generate annual incremental distributable cash flow for SUSP of $0.05 to $0.10 per common unit, and approximately $0.03 to $0.07 of incremental earnings per common share for SUSS, excluding any synergies.

Raymond James & Associates, Inc. acted as advisor for Gainesville Fuels in this transaction.

 

More Prices Increases

September 3, 2013

As reported in the August 20 issue of JobbersWorld, Shell Oil Products US (SOPUS) advised its marketers of a general price increase on lubricants of up to 4%. The increase is effective September 23, 2013. This increase translates to roughly $0.24 a gallon more for bulk lubricants and $0.40 a gallon for packaged lubricants.

Well you can now add a few others to the list.

Chevron announced a general price increase on lubricants of 3 to 6%. The increase is effective October 9, 2013.

ExxonMobil announced on August 29 that it will increase its branded and unbranded lubricant prices by up to 4% effective October 3, 2013.

Due to the rising material costs and current market conditions, Safety-Kleen announced it will increase prices on blended lubricants by $0.20 a gallon. This increase is effective September 27, 2013.

Smitty’s announced it will increase prices on orders placed on or after September 16, 2013. Its bulk lubricants will increase by $0.20 a gallon, packaged up by $0.25 and grease up $0.03 a pound.

Effective September 15, CAM2 will increase its prices on bulk by $0.20 a gallon, packaged by $0.25 and grease by $0.03 a pound.

Petro-Canada advised its marketers of a 3% across the board price increase effective September 27, 2013.

Advanced Lubrication Specialties (ALS) also announced a price increase. Effective September 23, its bulk and packaged lubricant prices will increase by $0.20 a gallon, and grease will be bumped up by $0.03 a pound.

 

Shell Announces Lubricant Price Increase

August 20, 2013

Shell Oil Products (SOPUS) advised its marketers of a general price increase on lubricants of up to 4%. The increase is effective September 23, 2013. According to marketers, this translates to roughly $0.24 a gallon more for bulk lubricants and $0.40 a gallon for packaged.

Shell attributes the increase to increasing costs of raw materials.

 

Chevron Recognizes Glockner Oil Company for Strong Lubricant Sales Performance

August 20, 2013

Starting on May 17, Chevron began to announce the seven Grand Prize winners in it’s Great Outdoors Sales Contest. The contest, which rewards strong sales of select Delo products during Winter 2012/2013, ran from November 1, 2012 to January 30, 2013. Grand Prize winners are awarded a John Deere RSX850i Gator.

Chevron Products Company today announced Glockner Oil Company as one of the seven Grand Prize winners

Headquartered in Piketon, OH, Glockner Oil Company was established in 1968 to be a full line lubricants distributor. The company is proud to be an authorized distributor of quality name brand motor oils, transmission fluids and other related lubricants, including Chevron’s Delo brand. Glockner Oil also provides in-house equipment repair and installation, 500,000 gallons of on-site bulk lube storage, and used oil services.

“The success of our business is closely tied with the success of our marketers,” said Jim Gambill, North America Commercial and Industrial Brands Manager, Chevron Products Company. “They serve as ambassadors for the Delo brand and play a vital role as educator and partner to their customers. Winning the Great Outdoors Sales Contest is a reflection of the strong relationships each winner has built with its customers. We want to congratulate Glockner Oil Company for the exceptional work it does and for being a Grand Prize winner in this contest.”

Seven Delo-branded John Deere Gator(TM) utility vehicles will be awarded during the contest. One winner will be selected from each of Chevron’s seven business areas — Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, Northwest, Southwest and South Central US, and Canada. The Marketer in each business area with the highest number of points at the end of the contest, based on its purchases of qualifying Delo products, wins the Grand Prize.

The contest was open to Chevron Lubricants Marketer in the US and Canada with a valid Chevron Lubricants Marketer Agreement in place as of October 31, 2012.

Other winners of this prestigious award include Parman Energy Corporation, Associated Petroleum Products, Sun Coast Resources. E.H. Wolf & Sons, and Flyers Energy, LLC.

 

GH Berlin – Windward Acquires Industrial and Commercial Lubricants Business of The Sandri Companies

June 25, 2013

GH Berlin-Windward, a leading lubricant marketer in the Northeast, acquired the Lubricants Division of The Sandri Companies. Deal to close on July 1st.

 The fully diversified Sandri Companies accepted an offer this month from GH-Berlin to sell their Sandri Lubricants division. After the sale, Sandri will focus on its core industries which are Consumer Energy, Transportation, Real Estate and Hospitality. Sandri will remain a leading distributor of Motor Fuels-both Sunoco brand and unbranded fuels-in Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Northeastern New York. The company will also continue to provide residential and light commercial energy products and services in its historic markets for these options of Western Massachusetts, Vermont, and Southern New Hampshire. Sandri provides full service delivery of heating oil, propane, and wood pellets, as well as HVAC maintenance and installation of oil and gas heating and cooling equipment to roughly 5000 customers within 30 miles of their headquarters. They also intend to continue to focus on their emerging renewable energy offerings including: high efficiency automated wood pellet boilers, solar hot water and solar electricity.

“Sandri has been working on the implementation of a strategic plan to realign our core business, explains Timothy Van Epps, President and CEO, of Sandri. ” The primary goal is to divest business interests that are outside of our core industries, which are Energy, Transportation, Hospitality, and Real Estate.”  Van Epps adds, “After a thorough review of our portfolio, we determined that the lubricants division was no longer aligned with the company’s core business and long-term strategy. As such, we made the choice to accept an offer to sell our interests in that business sector to GH Berlin-Windward. They are a company whose sole focus is the distribution of commercial and industrial lubricants.”

Dave Waltz, CEO of GH Berlin-Windward says “Sandri’s lubricant business is an excellent fit with our company. Lubricants is our core business and the acquisition brings additional volume and opportunity in an attractive geographic market.”

In addition, Waltz says, “Understanding that both Berlin and Sandri focus their sales on providing superior products and services, our companies share core values and have a similar company culture. Sandri’s lubricant sales representatives should fit in well within our organization.” For this reason, Waltz adds, “We have offered employment to all of Sandri’s lubricant sales representatives.”

About Sandri
Sandri Inc. (www.sandri.com) is a family owned and operated full-service fuel and energy Distribution Company that provides diversified products, services and solutions to retail and commercial customers.They are the largest Sunoco branded motor fuels distributor in the New England, and also offer unbranded motor fuels to commercial customers. Sandri operates throughout New England and Eastern New York.  The company also provides a variety of heating fuels including: fuel oil, kerosene, propane, and wood pellets to thousands of customers throughout western Massachusetts, Vermont and New Hampshire. Sandri has a large HVAC service, repair and installation department that features a variety of heating, cooling and indoor air quality options for both oil-fired and gas equipment.

Leveraging their vast knowledge and experience in energy related products and petroleum distribution, Sandri has added a renewable energy division offering direct to consumer solar hot water installations, wood pellet fuel and heating systems, and solar electric installations.

Until the recent announcement that they would be divesting their commercial and industrial lubricants division, Sandri was First Source Marketer for Chevron Global Lubricants. In addition to enjoying a strong relationship with Chevron, Sandri was an authorized distributor of Houghton International, Summit Industrial Products, Advanced Lubrication Specialties (ALS), CAM2 and Total lubricating oils.

 

A JobbersWorld Pop Quiz!

June 25, 2013

JobbersWorld ran a “Pop Quiz” in a previous issue. We asked a few questions about the engine shown to the right.

The questions were: 

1) What is the name of the company that manufactured this engine?; 2) How many horsepower does this beast put out?,  3) What type of oil is used to service this engine?  In addition, we included a bonus question asking; Where was this picture taken?

Whereas we received hundreds of responses, (some of which admittedly were meant to be humorous), JobbersWorld was shocked by the ability of some of our readers to get it right! With that said…

The Winner is – Ryan Story! 

Ryan Story of Rax Inc. nailed it! Ryan got all three questions and the bonus question right.

Whereas JobbersWorld expected a lubricant marketer or major oil company to be the first to ring in with the right answers, the winner came from one of the leading suppliers of back-office software to lubricant marketers.  And there is little wonder why. In addition to his talent as a software developer for Rax Inc., Ryan Story is a graduate of Iowa State and a flight instructor in single-engine aircraft. And beyond that, like many pilots, Ryan has a passion for planes and it showed when so quickly aced the pop quiz.

Since 2012 Ryan has been employed by Rax, Inc., a software company for the petroleum industry. He has extensive experience in developing Rax’s mobile application (MobileVS) for Salesman. Ryan also has enhanced the EDI interface between Visual Supplier and Exxon/Mobil, Castrol, Shell and PetroCanada, as well as other facets of VS.

JobbersWorld tips its hat to you Ryan; your knowledge of lubricant software and aircraft engines is notable… Job well done!

JobbersWorld also extends a Job Well Done to two others that submitted correct answer to the pop quiz, and they did so within an hour of Ryan’s slam dunk.

The second to get it right was Eugene Faulk of J&J Oil Company, in Athens, AL.Eugene is the General Manager of J & J Oil Co.  J & J Oil is a marketer of BP, Marathon, and Texaco products in North Alabama. Eugene has worked in the petroleum industry for almost 40 years.

When asked how he knew the answers to the pop quiz, Eugene responded by saying, “Google.” While it was clear Eugene was making it sound simple, in speaking with him, it is also clear he is someone who works hard to find solutions to problems. As a post script, Eugene said; take a look at the YouTube video of this engine starting up. “It’s an awesome sight”.

But the real surprise came shortly after the first two. This is when we received an email with the correct answers from Aníbal Ruiz S. Aníbal is with Lubricantes Internacionales de Honduras S.A de C.V., a Chevron distributor.

Interestingly, Aníbal said the first hint about the make and model of engine was the “wooden prop.” He dated it to be around 1920. And although at first glance he thought the engine was a P-51, he said, “on closer look it was clearly a Liberty 12A.” Yikes! Aníbal, did we make this pop quiz too easy for you by showing a wooden prop attached to a hunk of iron? Clearly you know your stuff and Chevron and Lubricantes Internacionales de Honduras S.A should be proud to have you selling for them!

Born and raised in Guatemala, Aníbal has a degree in mechanical engineering. He has 25+ years of experience in the lubricants business, 20+ years with Chevron/Texaco, and 2.5 years working with LUIHSA, a Chevron marketer in Honduras as sales manager. While with Chevron/Texaco, Aníbal traveled extensively through the Caribbean and Central America looking after the company’s lubricants business in those countries. Anibal was the first Certified Lubrication Specialist in Latin America in 1997.  While work is important, Aníbal says “I have been married for 24 years to my lovely wife with two grown children, Jose and Carol. I live halfway between Guatemala City and San Pedro Sula, going home to Guatemala on the weekends to spend time with my wife, kids, 2 cats, 3 dogs and my 2011 Mustang GT.”

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JobbersWorld continues to be impressed by the experience and expertise that resides in the fine people active in our industry. It’s clear that whether it’s a 1918 Liberty 12A aircraft engine, hydraulic roof supports in a long wall mine, or grease used in a stern tube stuffing box of a container vessel, if you ask the right people in our industry, you will get the right answers.

Now to the answers:

1) What is the name of the company that manufactured this engine?
The engine shown is a Liberty 12A produced by Packard in the United States. It’s a 12 cylinder, liquid-cooled aircraft engine that entered the market in 1918. In addition to Packard, this engine was manufactured by several other companies during and after WWI, including Buick, Ford, Cadillac, Lincoln, Marmon. In fact, as an interesting piece of history, the Liberty 12A aircraft engine is credited for driving the formation of Lincoln Motor Company. But that’s another story.

2)  How many horsepower does this beast put out?
It has a displacement of 1,649 cu. in, and is rated at 400 to 420 horsepower. This puppy was produced in large numbers for use in De Havilland DH-4, Douglas N-2, Curtis Falcon planes, and others.

3) What type of oil is used to service this engine?
Specific to the engine in the picture, those maintaining it at the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome say, “This Liberty uses synthetic 20W-50 viscosity engine oil.” This, however, is because it was rebuilt” If it was started without the total rebuild, “we would use a non-detergent type oil to prevent freed buildup within the engine from blocking oil passages.”

BONUS QUESTION: Where was this picture taken?
Cole Palen’s Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome, 9 Norton Rd., Red Hook, NY

 

Valvoline Partners with Badger Lubrication Technologies

June 14, 2013

Ashland Consumer Markets, a commercial unit of Ashland Inc. announced that Badger Lubrication Technologies is now an authorized distributor for the complete line of Valvoline high-performance lubricants, automotive chemicals, coolants and some additional items, including filters and wiper blades. Badger Lubrication Technologies will primarily distribute these products throughout Wisconsin.

In addition to supplying quick lubes, automotive service centers and car dealerships serving the passenger car market, Badger Lubrication Technologies will also market and sell the full line of premium Valvoline lubricants, coolants and chemicals to the commercial and heavy-duty market, such as truck and bus fleets, mining and construction equipment, and government vehicles. This includes the Valvoline Premium Blue full line of oil, which is the only engine oil approved and endorsed by Cummins Inc.* for testing, development and factory fill.

“Badger Lubrication Technologies offers a high level of service, including equipment installation and repair, said Tom Gerrald, vice president of Valvoline’s Installer Channels. We look forward to leveraging the long-term distribution relationships and exceptional service of our new channel partner to deliver high-performance Valvoline products.”

About Valvoline:
Valvoline, a brand of Ashland Inc. (NYSE: ASH), is known around the world for its high quality consumer, commercial and industrial lubricants. The Valvoline family of products also includes Eagle One™ appearance products, Car Brite™ car restoration products, Zerex™ antifreeze, SynPower™ performance products, MaxLife™ products created for higher-mileage engines, and NextGen™ motor oil created with 50 percent recycled oil. Valvoline Instant Oil ChangeSM is a leader in serving the quick lube market in the United States.

 

CITGO® Lubricants Receives GE Jenbacher Approval for Pacemaker® GEO LFG LA 40

June 14, 2013

CITGO Lubricants launched its Pacemaker GEO LFG LA 40 gas engine oil with the exclusive GE Jenbacher seal of approval. Designed for biogas operating conditions, Pacemaker GEO LFG LA 40 provides advanced engine protection from contaminants such as hydrogen sulfide, halogens and siloxanes.

“Few brands survive the rigorous testing required for GE Jenbacher approval, so we are very proud that our product received it,” said Karl Schmidt, general manager of petrochemicals and lubricants for CITGO Petroleum Corporation. “Operators can be confident that our Pacemaker LFG LA 40 will protect a variety of their engines while reducing their operating costs.”

According to CITGO, this revolutionary oil has been field-tested and proven to extend drain intervals relative to other major brands. It increases the run time of the engines before extensive overhauls, resulting in significantly less downtime and reduced overall maintenance costs. Pacemaker GEO LFG LA 40 adds to an already robust list of gas engine oil products, solidifying CITGO Lubricants as a major player in the landfill and digester gas segment.

About CITGO Lubricants
CITGO Lubricants manufactures a wide range of oils, fluids and greases for use in on-highway and off-highway fleets, equipment and vehicles, as well as agricultural, industrial gas, metalworking and railroad applications. The company offers customized lubricant solutions that improve productivity and efficiency. These products are available through local and regional distributors and at CITGO Fast and Truck Lube locations. For more information, visit www.citgolubes.com or call 1-800-331-4068.

 

Keller-Heartt Oil Acquires AL’s Oil and Lubes

June 7, 2013

Keller-Heartt Oil Announced its Most Recent Acquisition of AL’s Oil and Lubes.  

Keller-Heartt Oil, a full-service Shell Oil alliance lubricants distributor serving the automotive and trucking industries in the Mid-west market, announced the acquisition of Al’s Oil and Lubes. Al’s, Oil and Lubes, based in Chicago, IL, was established in 1999 by Al Alvarado. Alvarado built its business on providing excellent products and services to a select number of accounts in the auto parts class of trade, and over time, they grew to become a thriving lubricants business.

According to Brian McGrath, President of Keller-Heartt, “Al’s Oil is a respected and honest competitor who enjoyed business with over 500 accounts in the Chicago area. In fact, it was Al’s go to market strategy that helped drive our decision to acquire them.” McGrath adds, “Competing in today’s market is about providing quality products, excellent service, adding value, and assuring you meet your customer’s needs.”  Keller-Heartt built its business on these principles and Al’s Oil and Lubes was clearly a good fit in that they share a similar business philosophy.”

With the acquisition of AL’s Oil and Lubes, Keller-Heartt expands its footprint and ability to service customers in the Chicago area. Further, McGrath says, “This most recent acquisition helps to continue the growth strategy Keller-Heartt is implementing through organic growth and acquiring strategic partners.”

It should be noted that this is Keller-Heartt’s seventh purchase of lube companies in the last two decades.

Click for more on Keller-Heartt

 

Champion Announces New Low-Ash 15w-40 Synthetic CNG Engine Oil

June 7, 2013

Champion Oil, a globally recognized industry leader in specialty lubricants for over 55 years, recently announced a new full synthetic low-ash oil for fleets fueled by CNG, LNG or Propane.  

Specifically designed to be used with vehicles powered by Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) or Propane, the 15w-40 multi-grade viscosity has reduced ash content and is engineered for longevity and durability.

Other features of Champion’s new oil include: superior valve recession protection, low oil consumption, piston deposit control, good TBN retention, shear stability, enhanced valve train wear protection, excellent cold start protection, designed to control and reduce pre-ignition, advanced oxidation control, long life, and low exhaust emissions.

The Champion Low-Ash 15w-40 Synthetic CNG Engine Oil is available in 5-gallon pails, 55-gallon drums and 330-gallon totes.

About Champion Brands:
Champion Oil is a globally recognized industry leader in specialty lubricants for over 55 years. Champion also produces and blends over 350 products including fuel, oil, engine additives, and lubricants for the racing, automotive, heavy truck, agricultural, industrial, and specialty markets. For more information, go to ChampionBrands.com.

 

A JobbersWorld Pop Quiz!

June 7, 2013

Take a look at the picture to the right. The not so subtle hint about this engine is that a prop is attached to it. Therefore, unless it was used in a mammoth blender, or to keep people cool prior to air conditioning, you can be sure it was bolted to the front end of an aircraft.

So now for the Pop Quiz.

1- What is the name of the company that manufactured this engine?

2- How many horsepower does this beast put out?

3- What type of oil is used to service this engine?

And for bonus points, where was this picture taken?

Click here to Contact us with your answers. The names (and the companies you work for, if you would like) of the first to get any of these questions right will be posted in the next issue of JobbersWorld.

 

RelaDyne and Mansfield Acquire Maxum Petroleum – Great Lakes

May 23, 2013

As reported in the May 14th issue of JobbersWorld, Maxum Petroleum – Great Lakes (comprised of Hartney Fuel Oil and Paulson Oil Co.) announced that on or about May 15, 2013, its transport and railroad fuel business will become part of Mansfield Oil Company and its lubricants and tank wagon fuels business will become part of RelaDyne.    

Well the deal is done and the details are in.  

The Great Lakes division of Maxum Petroleum (“Maxum”) (comprised of Hartney Fuel Oil Company and Paulson Oil Company) officially announced today that its transport and railroad fuel businesses have been acquired by Mansfield Oil Company (“Mansfield”) and its lubricants and tank wagon fuel businesses have been acquired by RelaDyne.

Mansfield provides comprehensive fuel service supply, distribution, delivery and dispensing solutions through an integrated network of refiners, terminals, carriers and retailers throughout the continental United States and Canada.  RelaDyne is one of the largest providers of lubrication products, fuel and services focused on integrated equipment reliability for industrial, commercial and automotive business in the United States.

“We are excited to join the extensive and successful networks of Mansfield and RelaDyne,” said Paul McCusker, Vice President and General Manager of Maxum Petroleum – Great Lakes.  “These acquisitions will help us to grow in our product offerings and levels of service to better serve our customers.”

The lubricants and tank wagon fuel businesses from Maxum will expand RelaDyne’s current product offering in its existing Great Lakes region to include fuel and a completely new line of products and services to offer its customer base.   Among these synergies and growth opportunities, the Maxum acquisition provides RelaDyne with an opportunity to expand its Field Reliability Management (FRM) services in the commercial and industrial markets of the Great Lakes and Midwest regions.

“The location of Maxum’s Paulson Oil Company in Chesterton, Indiana, gives us a natural expansion to offer new products and services to the Chicago marketplace,” stated Larry Stoddard, CEO of RelaDyne.  “All of Paulson’s employees will continue to provide the highest level of customer service, sales support and reliable supply that the customers have come to expect.  We couldn’t be more pleased to add Maxum/Paulson to the RelaDyne family of businesses.”

Maxum’s transport and railroad fuel businesses equally fit into Mansfield’s current fuel supply chain.  “Our Great Lakes operation has been growing rapidly for the past five years and this was a great opportunity to accelerate that growth while adding local transportation and fuel blending assets that will expand our service capabilities,” said Jim Stout, Great Lakes Region General Manager.  “We are also excited about partnering with RelaDyne and Paul’s team in Chesterton to grow the local fueling services operation by providing supply and delivery solutions to our national accounts.  We believe this is a model that we can replicate in many markets nationally,” said Doug Haugh, President of Mansfield Oil Company.

About RelaDyne
RelaDyne, LLC, headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, is an industry leading lubricants and fuel distributor providing integrated equipment reliability management products and services for industrial, commercial, transportation and automotive businesses in the United States. Four industry leaders – Mid-Town Petroleum, Inc. (Bridgeview, IL), Oil Distributing Company (Cincinnati, OH), The Hurt Company, Inc. (Houston, TX) and Pumpelly Oil Company LLC (Sulphur, LA) – joined to form RelaDyne on Nov. 8, 2010. Its innovative Field Reliability Management (FRM) platform of services is designed to enhance the operations of companies involved in process manufacturing, utilities, food and beverage processing, mining equipment and commercial fleets. The company also benefits from the support of its business-building partner, AEA Investors LP, which manages funds worth approximately $5 billion of invested and committed capital. For more information, visit www.RelaDyne.com.

About Mansfield Oil Company
Ranked as one of the Top 100 privately held companies in America by Forbes magazine, Mansfield defines the next generation transportation fuels company. Founded in 1957, the company has achieved double-digit growth for three decades by focusing on optimizing and controlling fuel-related costs for its customers using innovation, technology, and high touch service. Mansfield’s corporate headquarters is located in Gainesville, GA, with regional operations centers located in Chicago, Detroit, Denver, Los Angeles, Houston, and Calgary, and with renewable energy operations in Bloomington, MN; Irvine, CA; and Sioux City, IA. For more information, visit www.mansfieldoil.com.

About Maxum Petroleum 

Maxum Petroleum, Inc., based in Greenwich, CT, is a leading independent energy logistics company that markets and distributes a comprehensive offering of refined petroleum products and services to commercial and industrial customers in the United States and Panama.  For more information, please visit http://www.maxumpetroleum.com.

 

Shell Lubricants Presented With AutoZone Extra Miler Award

May 23, 2013

Shell Lubricants was recently chosen as a recipient of the prestigious Extra Miler Award at the annual AutoZone Vendor Summit in Tunica, Miss.  The Extra Miler Award recognizes suppliers who have demonstrated above and beyond efforts for AutoZone and its customers.

“It is an honor for Shell Lubricants to be recognized by AutoZone with the Extra Miler Award,” said David Bunch, General Manager, Shell Retail Lubricants North America. “This award recognizes our efforts as an organization that is committed to providing innovative thinking and merchandising excellence for serving AutoZone.”

This year’s Extra Miler Award recognized innovative merchandising efforts that created highly visible store front fixtures developed to hold product needs during oil change special promotions.  The improved merchandising displays throughout AutoZone stores led to an enriched customer service experience that mutually benefited both AutoZone and Shell Lubricants. Shell Lubricants also made recommendations on space management, product placement and marketing programs.

“We congratulate Shell Lubricants on receiving the Extra Miler Award,” said Mark Finestone, Senior Vice President of AutoZone Merchandising. “We are committed to meeting the needs of our customers and providing them with quality products and having the ability to develop a close working relationship with an organization such as Shell Lubricants is important to our success.”

 

ULTRACHEM INTRODUCES NEW SERIES OF CHEMLUBE®
PLUS SERIES SYNTHETIC COMPRESSOR LUBRICANTS

May 23, 2013

Ultrachem has developed a new line of high-performance synthetic lubricants – the Chemlube® Plus Series – designed to be used in a wide variety of rotary screw and rotary vane compressors. True universal lubricants, the Chemlube Plus Series is fully compatible with most OEM Rotary Screw compressor oils and can be used to top off and replace existing fluids.

The Chemlube Plus Series lubricants are made with a very thermally and oxidatively stable polyol ester (POE) blend.  These oils were designed to take advantage of superior lubricating properties inherent in polyol esters, and yet be economical, by combining them with less expensive synthetics.

These fully synthetic premium lubricants are formulated to form less varnish under high temperature applications and to be more resistant to acidic intake air than the polyalkylene glycol (PAG) coolants. Under normal operating conditions users can expect to obtain up to 11,000 hours of lubricant service life in rotary screw compressors. The line is available in ISO grades 32, 46 and 68.

Typical industrial applications for the Chemlube Plus Series include: rotary screw compressors, rotary vane compressors, centrifugal compressors, and vacuum pumps.  Chemlube Plus Series lubricants offer these performance benefits:

• outstanding thermal and oxidative stability
• extended drain intervals reduces oil disposal
• wide operating temperature range
• excellent anti-wear protection
• compatibility with most compressor oils
• improved safety – high flash point

Full specifications are available for download at www.ultracheminc.com.

 

Quaker State® Ultimate Durability™ Highlights Added Benefit for Fuel Economy and Unsurpassed Wear Protection

May 23, 2013

Quaker State® introduced the new, reformulated Quaker State Ultimate Durability™ Full Synthetic Motor Oil, designed to deliver motorists a fuel economy savings of an average of  five cents per gallon* while providing unsurpassed protection against friction-related wear.

Using a proprietary moly formulation, the new full-synthetic additive package of Quaker State Ultimate Durability helps to keep oil fresh, benefitting fuel economy.

“More often than not, when a motor oil is formulated for fuel economy benefits, other attributes of the oil, such as wear and oxidation control, are affected,” says Jeff Hsu, Quaker State Technology Specialist. “However, Quaker State Ultimate Durability shows improved resistance to high-RPM and power-related engine stress**, all while providing the unsurpassed wear protection our consumers are accustomed to, with the added benefit of fuel economy.”

 

Maxum Fuels Over to Mansfield and Lubes to RelaDyne

May 14, 2013

Maxum Petroleum – Great Lakes (comprised of Hartney Fuel Oil and Paulson Oil Co.) announced that on or about May 15, 2013, its transport and railroad fuel business will become part of Mansfield Oil Company and its lubricants and tank wagon fuels business will become part of RelaDyne. 

Maxum says these changes will provide for significant flexibility, competitiveness, and increased service offerings within the customer base Maxum currently services in the Great Lakes region.

Maxum’s customers have been contacted about the change and advised they will receive detailed communications about the changes from Mansfield and/or RelaDyne about their products, programs, and service offerings.

About RelaDyne
RelaDyne, Inc., headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, provides integrated equipment reliability management products and services for industrial, commercial, transportation and automotive businesses in the United States. Four industry leaders – Mid-Town Petroleum, Inc. (Bridgeview, Ill.), Oil Distributing Company (Cincinnati, Ohio), The Hurt Company, Inc. (Houston, Texas) and Pumpelly Oil Company LLC (Sulphur, La.) – joined to form RelaDyne on Nov. 9, 2010. 

About Mansfield
Ranked by Forbes as one of the largest private companies in America, Mansfield Oil was Founded in 1957. The company has enjoyed double-digit growth for three decades. Mansfield Oil focuses on optimizing and controlling fuel-related costs with local service nationwide. Mansfield Oil is headquartered in Gainesville, Georgia, with offices in Denver, Detroit, Houston, Minneapolis, Charlottesville, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

 

PQIA Adds Automatic Transmission Fluids to its Motor Oil Timeline

May 14, 2013

In an effort to help raise awareness about the importance of  motor oil specifications, the Petroleum Quality Institute of America developed an easy to understand visual timeline illustrating the vintage of vehicles associated with each specification.

Whereas PQIA says it originally designed the timeline to help educate consumers, they heard from many lubricant marketers and blenders saying the timeline provided them with a valuable sales tool when explaining specifications to their customers. Further, they asked PQIA to add Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) to the timeline. Well PQIA did and the timeline is now available on request to PQIA.

CLICK FOR LARGER IMAGE

 

NOCO EXPANDS LUBRICANTS FOOTPRINT INTO NEW ENGLAND
Acquires Schultz Lubricants in West Boylston, MA

April 24, 2013

NOCO Distribution, LLC, a wholly owned business unit of NOCO Inc., announced today that it has acquired substantially all the assets of Schultz Lubricants, a full line distributor of Mobil lubricant products in Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island.  All 21 Schultz Lubricants employees have joined the NOCO Distribution team.

“Like NOCO, Schultz Lubricants is a family owned and locally operated business with strong values and a commitment to the customers and communities it serves,” said James D. Newman, NOCO president.  “NOCO will continue this longstanding tradition and will continue to use the Schultz brand name.”

NOCO offers a broad range of passenger vehicle, commercial vehicle, and industrial lubricants, including Mobil, Petro-Canada, along with its own private trade label.

“This acquisition continues our strategy of expanding our business in contiguous geographic footprints as the major oil companies focus their efforts on working with large, sophisticated distributors,” said Fred Giese, general manager, NOCO Distribution, LLC.  “As opportunities arise in adjoining territories, both in the US and Canada, NOCO will continuously evaluate its acquisition strategy.”

About NOCO Energy Corporation:
Celebrating 80 years of serving the Western New York community in 2013, family owned and locally operated NOCO is headquartered in Tonawanda, NY. NOCO is committed to meeting the energy needs of its residential and commercial customers at home, at work, and on the go. NOCO offers a full line of products and services including natural gas, electricity, propane, heating oil, HVAC sales and service, commercial fuels, and industrial lubricants. The company also operates 35 NOCO Express convenience stores throughout the region. NOCO prides itself on quality products at competitive prices. For more information, visit www.noco.com.

 

Getting Red About the Color of Purple

April 24, 2013

ROYAL PURPLE, LLC of Indianapolis, Indiana filed a lawsuit on March 22, 2013 against Liqui Moly GmbH of Ulm, Germany in the Southern District of Indiana. The suit claims trademark infringement and acts that constitute unfair competition, and dilution by Liqui Moly for selling purple automotive lubricants.

The lawsuit centers on the right to sell purple lubricants.

Royal Purple claims it has sold purple lubricants for more than 20 years and has trademarked the color purple as applied to lubricants. In fact, it owns several federal trademark registrations for the color purple as applied to lubricating oils for consumer automotive, industrial and other lubricant uses.

This will be an interesting case to watch. Should Royal Purple prevail, one has to wonder if others will stake claims/trademarks for green, blue and other appealing colors for motor oils and lubricants.

 

Valvoline Launches NextGen™ SynPower™ Motor Oil

April 24, 2013

Valvoline announces the addition of NextGen™ SynPower™ motor oil to its product line.

NextGen SynPower is said to be “Double refined for unsurpassed protection that offers 100% Valvoline Synthetic Performance while reducing environmental impact.” Additionally, Valvoline says NextGen SynPower is “enhanced with the most advanced additive technology delivering performance that meets the latest requirements for modern engines, NextGen SynPower is specially designed to provide high levels of fuel efficiency and deposit protection under severe service conditions and meet performance requirements of virtually all naturally aspirated, turbocharged and supercharged spark ignition North American and Asian vehicles.”

NextGen SynPower is available in 5W-20 and 5W-30 in quarts and in 5W-30 in large packs nationwide at Advance Auto Parts and Pep Boys stores.

 

Evergreen Oil Files for Chapter 11 Protection

April 11, 2013

Evergreen Oil Inc., along with its parent and sole shareholder Evergreen Environmental Holdings Inc., filed for Chapter 11 protection in California bankruptcy court on April 10, 2013.

As most in our industry know, Evergreen is one of several waste oil collectors and re-refiners in the US. The company operates a rerefinery in Newark, CA. This facility has the capacity to produce 0.8 TBD of Group II base oil.

Evergreen attributes the decision to file for Chapter 11 to a number of issues, including a fire that severely damaged some of its operating equipment in 2011. As a result of this, and other issues, the company’s cash flow was unable to sustain its operation.

It should be noted that Evergreen Oil had also been under a good deal of scrutiny from environmental groups over the past few years. An example of some of this pressure can be seen at Newark Patch.

 

Woodford Oil Expands Operations and Product Offerings with Acquisition of Elite Petroleum

April 11, 2013

Woodford Oil Co., headquartered in Elkins, has acquired the lubricants business of Elite Petroleum, Inc. of Danville, KY. This acquisition represents another confident step toward Woodford’s growth plan, which includes gaining new territory for marketing and distribution. The addition of Elite Petroleum’s marketing area enables Woodford to expand its current distribution network and marketing capabilities into Central Kentucky and beyond.

With a larger business territory, Woodford can extend its products and services to even more businesses and consumers. “With every new venture, Woodford has two essential criteria: quality and growth. By acquiring Elite’s lubricants division, we get both. Our expanded operations and offerings help us maintain our position as leaders in the industry,” said Woodford Oil’s Vice President, Scott Kiser.

Strengthening the acquisition, Woodford says, is Elite Petroleum’s longstanding, reputable history in petroleum marketing. The management and employees of Elite bring a vast knowledge of the lubricants industry and have top recognition within the industry, achieving Chevron Signature/ 1st Source Marketer status every year since the program’s inception.

About Woodford: Woodford is a locally owned distributor of fuel and lubricant products. Headquartered in Elkins, WV, Woodford Oil serves West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, Kentucky, Ohio and Pennsylvania.  Click for more.

 

Going Up!

April 4, 2013

It looks like we are solidly into the first round of lubricant price increases in 2013. Four majors bumped prices up along with a number of independent lubricant manufacturers. Most say the price increases are necessary due to increases in the price of base oils. And in fact, it’s true, base oil prices did recently increase. 

At the same time, many are wondering what the rest of 2013 will look like. This is because lubricant demand is still soft and significantly more base oil capacity is expected to enter the market when Chevron opens the spigots at its new 25,000 barrels per day API Group II base oil plant in Pascagoula, Miss. later this year. So buckle up, it could be an interesting ride.

The following is a summary of recent lubricant price increases:  

ExxonMobil will increase lubricant and grease prices by up to 4%. This increase is said to be effective May 15, 2013.

Amalie announced a price increase on April 2. With the exception of grease, effective Wednesday, May 1, 2013, the price for all oil and automotive chemical products for all Amalie brands, as well as for all private labeled products will increase by $0.24 a gallon. Amalie grease products will increase by $0.03 a pound, effective May 1, 2013. There will be no increase for Amalie’s Greased Lightning branded aftermarket chemicals.

Safety-Kleen announced a price increase on its Performance Plus line of finished lube lubricants of $0.25 a gallon, effective April 27.

Old World announced that effective April 15, Old World will increase all bulk and packaged conventional and synthetic blend lubricant prices by 0.20 a gallon. The price of its bulk and full synthetics will remain the same.

BP/Castrol announced a general price increase on March 29, increase up to 4% on all passenger car, commercial and ancillary lubricants, including synthetics. This increase is effective May 6, 2013.

Warren Oil notified its customers on March 27 that it will be increasing the price of all conventional and synthetic blend packaged lubricants by $0.25 a gallon. This increase is effective May 1, 2013 and includes motor oils, ATF, gear oils, hydraulic oils, recreational oils, and gas engine oils. The price of Warren Oil’s bulk conventional and synthetic blend lubricants will increase by $0.20 a gallon, effective April 12. The company’s grease prices will increase 0.03 a pound effective May 1.

Smitty’s Supply Inc. sent letters out to its customers on March 26, 2013 advising about a price increase taking effect April 15, 2013. Conventional and synthetic blend bulk lubricants will increase by $0.20 a gallon. The price of the same products in packages will increase by $0.25 a gallon. There will be no change in the price of its synthetic lubricants. Grease prices will increase by $0.03 a pound.

Advanced Lubrication Specialties (LSC) announced that effective April 29, 2013, all products except full synthetics will increase by $0.20 per gallon.

CAM2 announced price increases on March 22, 2013. Its conventional and synthetic blend lubricants sold in bulk will move up by $0.20 a gallon on April 5. Packaged lubricants will go up by $0.25 a gallon on April 12. There will be no change in the price of its synthetics. The price of its grease will increase by $0.03 a pound.

Petro-Canada advised its marketers in the US that the price of its white oils and process oils will increase by 3% effective April 11. This increase was announced March 13.

As reported in the March 12 issues of JobbersWorld –

Shell Oil Products US (SOPUS) announced a general price increase of up to 4% on its lubricants. This increase was announced on March 11 and is effective April 15, 2013. SOPUS says the increase was in part due to increased costs of raw materials used in the production and delivery of its products.

 

Chevron’s Delo Brand Lubricants Announces March 2013 Inductees to Million Mile Club

April 4, 2013

Chevron Products Company, a Chevron U.S.A. Inc. division, maker of the Delo® brand of  engine oils, lubricants and coolants, today unveiled the eight drivers inducted to the Chevron Delo sponsored Red Eye Radio (formerly Midnight Trucking Radio) Million Mile Club in March 2013.

Established in 1992, the Chevron Delo sponsored program is one of the most prestigious honors in the trucking industry. The Red Eye Radio Million Mile Club honors truck drivers in the U.S. and Canada with one million miles of accident-free driving.

“Chevron is committed to the health and safety of its employees and contractors worldwide – safety is a key part of our company’s DNA. With such a strong focus on safety, we eagerly support other safety efforts in the communities and industries where we operate. Sponsoring the Million Mile Club is an example of our ongoing commitment to safety and our desire to recognize and promote accomplishments in this area,” commented Jim Gambill, Delo brand manager, North America, Chevron Products Company.

Million Mile Club March 2013 Inductees:

• William Coe, Jr., Coe’s Overland Express, Lakeland, FL
• Don Rodenberger, Versatile Transport, Rock Hill, SC
• Dale Weier, DJW Trucking, Columbus, MI
• Daniel Fuentes, Pinnacle Freight Lines, North Bergen, NJ
• John Rohrich, Fab Unlimited, Mapleton, ND
• John Dolfay, Yocum Oil, Forest Lake, MN
• Allen Wefel, ADM Trucking, Cedar Rapids, IA
• Joe Houseknecht, Panera Bread/Consolidated Frt., Bradenton, FL

Chevron congratulates these drivers for their outstanding accomplishments and commitment to safety.

Editorial Comment from JobbersWorld:
As a New Jersey based publication, JobbersWorld took note that Daniel Fuentes of Pinnacle Freight Lines, North Bergen, NJ made the list. JobbersWorld will look for Daniel on the NJTP, 287 and Route 1. We suspect he will be easy to spot because he will be driving in the right lane, following the speed limit, and maybe even wearing the Million Mile Club Jacket.  

 

Prices on the Move UP

April 2, 2013

Whereas Shell Oil Products US was the first major to announce a general price increase in 2013, BP/Castrol announced on Friday of last week that it too will be increasing its prices.  Other price hikes seen in 2013 are shown below:  

Petro-Canada advised its marketers in the US that the price of its white oils and process oils will increase by 3% effective April 11. This increase was announced March 13.

CAM2 announced a price increase on March 22, 2013. Its conventional and synthetic blend lubricants sold in bulk will move up by $0.20 a gallon on April 5. Packaged lubricants will go up by $0.25 a gallon on April 12. There will be no change in the price of its synthetics. The price of its grease will increase by $0.03 a pound.

Shell Oil Products US (SOPUS) announced a general price increase of up to 4% on its lubricants. This increase was announced on March 11 and is effective April 15, 2013. SOPUS says the increase was in part due to increased costs of raw materials used in the production and delivery of its products.

BP/Castrol announced a general price increase on March 29, increase up to 4% on all passenger car, commercial and ancillary lubricants, including synthetics. This increase is effective May 6, 2013.

Amalie announced an increase of $0.24 a gallon  on all automotive and chemical products. This increase is effective May 1, 2013.

Old World also announced an increase.

 

Universal Lubricants® Boosts Technical Sales Support for Heavy-Duty Market

April 2, 2013

Universal Lubricants® manufacturer and distributor of high performance oils including the Eco Ultra® line of sustainable lubricants, announced the appointment of industry veteran Sonny Mays to lead the company’s technical support and sales in the heavy-duty market to meet the industry’s increasing demand for its high-quality engine oils and diverse line of hydraulic oils, gear oils, transmission and tractor fluids, greases and coolants.

As the new director of heavy duty technical sales, Mays will be responsible for providing technical support, customer training, performance analysis and sales planning for the company’s full line of heavy-duty lubricants in the U.S. and Canada.

“Equipment management and maintenance is critical in the heavy duty market where customer investment in each piece of equipment can be very large,” said Rick Palmore, the company’s vice president of sales. “One of the primary reasons these customers value Universal Lubricants is because of the services we provide. Sonny Mays is highly skilled in metallurgy, failure analysis and component wear factors, and he’s bringing that knowledge to our heavy duty customers. He’ll also play a key role in advising the 30-plus members of our heavy duty sales team.”

Mays’ knowledge of the heavy-duty industry is grounded in first-hand experience. The Texas native was raised in a trucking family and began working on general truck maintenance at the age of 12. He has driven trucks to the northwest and Canada and built two over-the-road trucks from the frame rails up.

Mays began his career at Darr Equipment Company where he worked his way to northern regional manager of Holt Caterpillar truck engine shop. With time spent as a heavy equipment shop supervisor and component-rebuild specialist for truck and heavy equipment, Mays began training new personnel in fuel systems, electronics and failure analysis. He moved to Castrol HDL at the end of 2000 where he began his career in lubricants as a field engineer in heavy duty lubes.

In 2006, Mays joined Universal Lubricants with dual roles in the company’s technical and operations departments, and helped develop the company’s new Engine Guard fleet maintenance program, which allows customers to track their oil and lubricant performance information online.

“After working with companies from coast-to-coast for many years, I am well aware of the ongoing need for training to increase technicians’ knowledge of lubricants that protect and extend the life of components,” said Mays. “Today’s technicians focus on parts and repair and often overlook the critical importance of lubricants. The heavy-duty industry is complex and it’s important to understand the issues that customers face. Universal Lubricants is a growing company, but we have the ability to take the pulse of the customer and move quickly to find the right solutions to customer problems.”

Mays is instrumental in the ongoing development of Universal Lubricants Dyna-Plex 21C® line of “extreme” products, designed to handle extreme temperature swings in areas like Alberta and the Yukon Territory in Canada.

 

Infineum Announces Changes to Senior Leadership Team

March 25, 2013

Infineum, one of the world leaders in the formulation, manufacturing and marketing of petroleum additives, announced a restructuring of its corporate leadership team, to take effect April 1, 2013.

The changes, announced by Infineum CEO Xavier le Mintier, follow the retirement at the end of March of Sara Lefcourt, Vice President of Supply, and Mark Struglinski, Vice President of Technology.

Chris Locke, who previously managed Infineum’s Crankcase Lubricants Business, will take up the role of Executive Vice President for the newly-formed Marketing and Technology division. Chris will be responsible for the delivery of innovative technical solutions to the customers, alongside marketing and corporate strategy development.

Infineum’s Sales and Supply divisions will come together and be headed up by Trevor Russell, who was previously Vice President for Sales and Marketing. In his new role as Executive Vice President for Sales and Supply, Trevor will be responsible for serving Infineum’s customer base, as well as delivering operational excellence across the organization, Trevor will relocate to Singapore to reflect the growing importance of the Asia Pacific region.

Philippe Creteur will remain as Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President for Business Services, while Ross Baglin will continue as Executive Vice President for Human Resources.

Infineum’s four Executive Vice Presidents will work alongside Chief Executive Officer Xavier le Mintier as the new Corporate Leadership Team.

Commenting on the announcement, Xavier le Mintier said “Today’s announcement reaffirms Infineum’s commitment to become the leading transportation additive company. The combined experience of Chris, Trevor, Philippe and Ross means we have a strong leadership team that will ensure we continue to deliver on our promise of “Performance you can rely on”, delivering the technology excellence, reliability and collaboration that our customers have come to expect from us. Through this restructuring we have put in place an organisation that is more agile and flexible, allowing us to increase our speed to market with new innovations whilst maintaining the operational and supply excellence our customers value. I am particularly pleased to announce the movement of an EVP position to Asia, reflecting both the importance of this region and Infineum’s commitment to it.”

At the same time, I would like to personally wish Sara Lefcourt and Mark Struglinski long and happy retirements after many years’ service to the company – their respective contributions to Infineum’s continued success have been outstanding and they will be missed by their many friends and colleagues at Infineum.”

About Infineum
The Infineum Group of Companies is a world-class petroleum additives enterprise. With headquarters in Milton Hill, UK, Infineum is a developer, manufacturer and marketer of lubricant additives used primarily in automotive, heavy-duty diesel and marine engines, and additives for gasoline and diesel fuels. Its customers are oil companies and other lubricant and fuel marketers. The Infineum product line also includes specialty additives for automotive transmission fluids, and gear and industrial oils.

 

Chevron Introduces New Products and Tools to Help Customers Improve Fuel Economy

March 25, 2013

Delo® 400 XLE Synblend SAE 10W-30 Targets Fuel Economy

Chevron Products Company, a Chevron U.S.A. Inc. division, maker of the Delo® brand of technologically advanced engine oils, lubricants and coolants, announced its latest product, Delo 400 XLE Synblend SAE 10W-30, which can deliver over three percent fuel economy improvement in class 6 trucks relative to SAE 15W-40 diesel motor oils.

The product is formulated for use in modern on-highway, low emissions engines as well as older diesel engines. It will also provide exceptional performance in modern off-highway engines where an SAE 10W-30 viscosity grade is recommended, including those adapted for future emissions standards in construction, agriculture, marine and mining applications.

Chevron says Delo 400 XLE Synblend SAE 10W-30 shows up to 3.6 percent fuel economy improvement in short-haul, class 6 vehicles and up to 1 percent improvement in long-haul, class 8 trucks compared to SAE 15W-40 oil in SAE J1321 Fuel Consumption Tests.  For fleets, the savings associated with these fuel economy improvements can be substantial.

“We understand that fleets are under constant costs pressures. Any product that can help reduce fuel consumption is important for fleets to consider,” said Jim Gambill, North America Commercial and Industrial brand manager, Chevron Products Company. “Chevron is committed to expanding its line of Delo-branded, fuel economy focused lubricants in order to offer customers solutions that deliver real world cost savings. With the introduction of Delo 400 XLE Synblend SAE 10W-30, our customers have more lubricant options, allowing them to select the product that best meets their needs.”

Chevron says the new Delo 400 XLE Synblend SAE 10W-30 is now available in drums across North America and will be available in bulk in April, 2013, and jugs will be available by June 2013.

Delo Online Fuel Economy Calculator

Chevron Introduced an online fuel economy calculator that helps fleet operators and drivers determine the potential savings that can be achieved by using Chevron’s lower viscosity Delo-branded, heavy-duty motor oils.

 

Watching the Spread

March 25, 2013

The spread between the price of 100N API Group II base oil and Brent Crude finished last week at $1.06 a gallon. Although the spread is considerably under the average of $1.46 from March of 2012 YTD, it has climbed from the low $0.60 a gallon seen in February 2013.

 

Shell Announces a Price Increase on Lubes

March 12, 2013

Shell announced a general price increase of up to 4% on its lubricants. The increase is effective April 15, 2013. The company added that “In certain instances, the effective date of change and the amount of the price change for specific products may be at a later date and/or an amount outside of this range.”

Shell says the increase is due in part to increasing costs of raw materials used in the production and delivery of its lubricants.

 

PQIA Spotlight on Synthetic Lubricants

March 12, 2013

The Petroleum Quality Institute of America publishes the results of testing on 12 brands of synthetic passenger car motor oil. Whereas each of the brands tested meet their labeled specifications, the results of the testing show differences.

CLICK FOR DETAILS 

 

 

Hear Argo’s Tony Mendez at NLGI’s 2013 Meeting!

March 12, 2013

The National Lubricating Grease Institute (NLGI) announced today that the Keynote Address at this year’s annual meeting will be given by Tony Mendez, author of Argo, the best-selling memoir that inspired the film of the same name (winner of the 2013 Academy Award for Best Picture).

NLGI, the leading technical trade association serving the global lubricating grease and gear lubrication industry, will hold its 2013 annual meeting June 15-18 in Tucson, Ariz. The meeting marks the group’s 80th anniversary, and is expected to draw hundreds of participants from around the world. In addition to Mendez’s keynote, attendees will hear presentations focusing on lubricating grease performance, testing, applications and advances, including energy-saving and biobased greases. Grease education courses (both basic and advanced) are offered concurrent with the event, and technical working groups also meet. The event presents numerous social and networking opportunities as well.

Tony Mendez is a retired CIA officer, author and award-winning painter. Born in Eureka, Nev. (“the loneliest town on the loneliest road in America”), Tony led two lives. For 25 years he worked under cover, often overseas, in some of the most important operations of the Cold War. To his friends, he was a quiet government bureaucrat. To the CIA, he was their disguise master. Mendez and his subordinates were responsible for changing the identity and appearance of thousands of clandestine operatives, enabling them to move securely around the world.

As dramatized in last year’s film, Tony and his team engineered and conducted the rescue of six U.S. diplomats from Iran during the hostage crisis. This intricate operation involved creating an ostensible Hollywood film production company, complete with personnel, scripts, publicity and real estate in L.A.

Tony’s presentation is sure to be a rousing opening to this year’s meeting. For more details, including registration and hotel information, visit www.nlgi.org.

NLGI is a technical trade association serving the global lubricating grease and gear lubrication industry. For eight decades, NLGI has promoted the development, research and testing of lubricating greases and advances in lubrication technology. Its ongoing activities include Education, Professional Certification, Research, support for Industry Standards, and Annual Meetings to promote this key industry worldwide. Visit www.nlgi.org for more details.

 

PHILLIPS 66 APPOINTS NEW GENERAL MANAGER OF LUBRICANTS

March 6, 2013

Experienced Industry Leader Ann Oglesby Tapped to Lead Lubricants Business

 Phillips 66 Lubricants, one of the largest finished lubricants suppliers in North America, announced that Ann Oglesby, a 25-year veteran of the oil and natural gas industry who most recently served as Phillips 66’s vice president, Communications and Public Affairs, has been named the new general manager of Phillips 66 Lubricants.

“I’m honored to have this opportunity and look forward to continuing our strong commitment of providing our customers with trusted and proven lubricants,” said Oglesby. “Together with our employees and customers, I will work tirelessly to ensure Phillips 66 remains the valued industry leader it is today in the Lubricants industry.”

After 11 years in the division’s top role, Tom Liberti will transition into a different leadership role within the company.

“Phillips 66 has been successful in the Lubricants and Base Oil businesses in large part due to the exceptional customers and suppliers, as well as talented employees, that I have had the pleasure to work with over the last decade,” said Liberti. “I am excited about the future of our business under Ann’s leadership. She’s the right person to grow Phillips 66 Lubricants to the heights we envision.”

Before assuming her current role in March 2013, Oglesby was vice president, Communications & Public Affairs for Phillips 66. She served in that same capacity for ConocoPhillips from 2010 to 2012. In her tenure with ConocoPhillips, she was general manager, Corporate Planning & Strategy from 2009 to 2010; manager, Climate Change and Sustainable Development from 2007 to 2009; president, Specialty Products from 2004 to 2007; and manager, Emerging Technology from 2001 to 2004.

Oglesby began her oil industry career in 1987 with Mobil Corporation where she served in various engineering, supply, business development and planning positions focused on petrochemicals.

Oglesby currently serves as the Phillips 66 executive liaison for Oklahoma State University. She is also a member of the executive advisory council for the Women’s Energy Network.

Originally from Fort Smith, Ark., Oglesby earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemical engineering from Oklahoma State University in 1987.

About Phillips 66
Headquartered in Houston, Phillips 66 is an advantaged downstream energy company with segment-leading Refining and Marketing (R&M), Midstream and Chemicals businesses. The company has 13,500 employees worldwide. Phillips 66’s R&M operations include 15 refineries with a net crude oil capacity of 2.2 million barrels per day, 10,000 owned or supplied branded marketing outlets, and 15,000 miles of pipeline systems. The Midstream segment includes Phillips 66’s 50 percent interest in DCP Midstream, LLC, one of the largest natural gas gatherers and processors in the United States, with 7.2 billion cubic feet per day of gross natural gas processing capacity. Phillips 66’s Chemicals business is conducted through its 50 percent interest in Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LLC, one of the world’s top producers of olefins and polyolefins with more than 30 billion pounds of net annual chemicals processing capacity across its product lines. For more information, visit www.phillips66.com or follow on Twitter @Phillips66Co.

 

COMING THIS MONTH!!!
STLE, Chicago Section 2013 Education Program – Industrial Lubrication and Maintenance

March 6, 2013

The Society of Tribologist and Lubrication Engineers Chicago Section 2013 two day Technical Seminar – March 20 & 21, 2013

This training is designed for industrial lubricant end-users and other individuals and professionals involved in the selection, application and maintenance of industrial lubricants as well as individuals involved in the formulation, technical service and sales of lubricants who would like to learn more about in field applications and the environments associated with these applications. STLE Certification Exams will be offered (CLS,CFMS, OMA I, OMA II).

“We think this seminar can offer significant value to lubricant end users, as well as suppliers and formulators of lubricant products,” says Patrick Brutto, Chairman, Chicago Section STLE.

Contact STLE’s education chairman Paul Hartsuch at paulhart@who.netwith question or  STLE Headquarters www.stle.org for registration.

 

PetroChoice Acquires US Lubes South

March 4, 2013

PetroChoice announced the acquisition of the assets of US Lubes’ Southern Division. Through this purchase, PetroChoice further expands its geographic presence and will now have a location in Wakefield, VA.

US Lubes and its predecessors have been committed to distributing quality lubricants to the Automotive, Commercial and Industrial segments for over 80 years. Bill Packer, CEO of US Lubes, and his Customer Satisfaction Team will work closely with PetroChoice to create a smooth and seamless transition for all customers.

In December 2012, PetroChoice acquired the New Jersey Division of US Lubes. “At US Lubes, our customers’ satisfaction was always our number one objective. Based on the ease of transition with our previously divested New Jersey assets, we quickly agreed that PetroChoice was and is the best solution to continue our commitment to all of our customers,” said Packer.

“Having already combined the efforts of US Lubes North with PetroChoice’s current mission has allowed us to offer our Mid-Atlantic customers unparalleled sales and service,” said Bob Mills, President of PetroChoice’s Mid-Atlantic Division. “Adding the assets of US Lubes South to our portfolio really expands the depth of our Mid-Atlantic offering and we are very excited to now have a physical presence in Virginia.”

PetroChoice is focused on acquiring best-in-class lubricant distributors that are a strategic fit with its business model to expand its product and service offerings to customers, and its geographic footprint.

About PetroChoice:
PetroChoice is a leading value-added provider of petroleum based lubrication products and services in the Mid-Atlantic and Midwest Regions. Click for more

 

Brown Evans Distributing and Union Distributing Merge to Form Synergy Petroleum

February 12, 2013

 

Brown Evans Distributing and Union Distributing today announced plans to join forces and form a new company, Senergy Petroleum LLC. David Lueth, Warren Lueth, and Kathye Brown will retain joint principal ownership, and industry veteran and former Canyon State Oil President Chris Lindblom will lead the new company as President & CEO.

“This merger is a perfect fit. The combined strengths, scale, and resources will create a premier distributorship poised for significant and sustainable growth,” said Lindblom. “The pace of industry consolidation is accelerating and Senergy will be optimally positioned for the changing market dynamics and continually evolving customer needs of today and tomorrow.”

The creation of Senergy unites two highly respected Arizona heritage distributors with roots dating back to 1941. An exceptional customer service focus has earned Union and Brown Evans key-vendor status with over 4000 commercial, industrial, agricultural and automotive fuels & lubricants customers, as well as branded gasoline dealers. Advancing on this legacy of service, Senergy’s strategic growth strategy will provide increased operational reach, enhanced breadth and depth of expertise, and the most comprehensive products & services portfolio in the area. Senergy operations will span the Arizona market statewide, as well as into adjacent southwest regional markets.

“The Senergy combination is a game-changing opportunity to take the highest possible standard of quality and service to yet the next level,” said Union Distributing co-founding brothers David Lueth and Warren Lueth. “Senergy will be well positioned at the forefront of petroleum distribution in Arizona.”

“Senergy creates an exciting opportunity for our valued employees, and an exceptionally capable supplier partner for our loyal customers,” said Brown Evans President Kathye Brown. “We are extremely pleased to see our histories of excellence and success move forward as Senergy.”

Union Distributing Company, headquartered in Phoenix, operates full service bulk fuels and lubricants terminals, warehousing, and offices in Phoenix and in Tucson. Union has grown from a small five person operation in 1986 to a thriving enterprise with 80 team members, today. Integrity and quality have been at its core since its beginnings.

Brown Evans celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2011. Wayne and Kathye Brown acquired the company from the Evans family in 1982. Wayne led the company until 1996 when he became Mayor of Mesa and Kathye took the helm as President. With headquarters in Mesa and a talented team of 50, it offers a full line of lubricants, wholesale fuels, and a premier network of Pacific Pride commercial fueling sites.

 

PQIA SPEAKS OUT ON – Responsible Labeling Of Motor Oil

February 12, 2013

The Petroleum Quality Institute of America Encourages Responsible Labeling of Motor Oils and Says There is Clearly Room for Improvement.

According to a report issued by PQIA on February 7, 2013, an area where PQIA sees considerable room for improvement in labeling of motor oils is with products only meeting obsolete API specifications (SA, SB, SC, SD, SE). Whereas there are certain applications where these products are appropriate, PQIA says they generally have limited use and can cause harm to most passenger car engines. Unfortunately, PQIA frequently finds these products on store shelves with labels that not only lack any precautionary statements to advise consumers of their limited use, but instead use marketing terms suggestive of a high quality product. One example of such a brand is XCEL shown below.

The XCEL labels display terms suggestive of high quality and  lack any precautionary statements about the fact these products are not suitable for use in most gasoline-powered automobile engines built after 1930. Further, whereas API SA oils are generally monogrades due to the lack of additives, consumers can easily assume these XCEL motor oils are appropriate for use in their vehicle because they are offered in multi-grade viscosities commonly required in vehicles currently on the road.

CLICK BOTTLES FOR LABEL DETAILS AND TEST RESULTS

What the XCEL labels say:

• Protects like no other
• PREMIUM
• SPECIAL
• A multi-grade highly refined general purpose automotive oil
• Formulated from a quality blend of selected lubricants to provide protection against oxidation and corrosion of engine parts.
• This economical quality blended lubricant provides excellent and durable lubrication for automobiles and light truck engines to minimize oil consumption cost.
• Recommended for older cars where a minimum amount of additive is required API Service SA

What the XCEL labels don’t say:

• Is not suitable for use in most gasoline-powered automotive engines built after 1930.
• Use in more modern engines may cause unsatisfactory performance or equipment harm.

Whereas marketers might argue they advise consumers accordingly by including the “API Service SA” on the label, the fact is, less than 1% of consumers are even vaguely familiar with the API Service Classification system. In fact, often when asked, many consumers relate the API rating to school grades and as such, believe and SA must be better than and B, C, or D.

So rather than fooling ourselves, or worse yet, taking advantage of the consumer’s lack of knowledge about the codes on labels that speak to quality levels, PQIA encourages the use of language consumers understand. The API recommends specific warning labels for many obsolete specification motor oils to clearly communicate the limited use for these oils, and we applaud those marketers who use it. Click here for an example of responsible labeling of API SB engine oil.

 

EcoPower® Announces Detroit Diesel approval of EcoPower Heavy-Duty Diesel 10W-30 CJ-4/SM

February 12, 2013

Safety-Kleen Systems announced that Detroit Diesel has approved EcoPower® Heavy-Duty Diesel 10W-30 CJ-4/SM for use in Detroit Diesel engines. This re-refined engine oil helps fleets improve fuel economy up to 1.5%, delivers better cold-weather starts, and protects engines and protects the environment.

The Detroit Diesel approval includes Series 50, Series 60, MBE 4000, MBE 900 and HDEP engines equipped with EGR and Diesel Particle Filters (DPF) as specified in 93K218. EcoPower Heavy-Duty Diesel 10W-30 CJ-4/SM has also been approved by or meets the requirements of Cummins, Caterpillar, Mack, Mercedes-Benz, Navistar and Volvo.

“The approval from Detroit Diesel is further evidence that EcoPower protects engines and meets OEM requirements,” said Curt Knapp, Executive Vice President, Marketing and Oil Re-refining Sales for Safety-Kleen. “Fleets who switch score the trifecta-better fuel economy, engine protection and environmental protection.”

Rodney Walker, Technical Director for Safety-Kleen, points out the mileage, environmental and technical advantages of using EcoPower Heavy-Duty Diesel 10W-30 CJ-4/SM.

“It can boost fuel economy by as much as 1.5% compared to using EcoPower Heavy-Duty Diesel 15W-40 CJ-4/SM. A fleet using 8 million gallons of diesel fuel at $4 per gallon could save up to $480,000. That helps lower a fleet’s costs while reducing their carbon footprint. EcoPower Heavy-Duty Diesel 10W-30 CJ-4/SM is also formulated for better cold-temperature starts and provides excellent varnish, sludge and carbon deposit control.”

EcoPower helps protect the environment by requiring up to 85% less energy to produce than oil made from virgin crude. A fleet that uses 250,000 gallons of EcoPower per year could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 1,900 metric tons per year. That’s equal to growing over 49,000 trees for 10 years in an urban environment.

Safety-Kleen’s re-refining process makes engine oil a sustainable resource. If oil is burned as a fuel source for its thermal value, its effective use is over. But when used oil is recycled into new oil products, like EcoPower, it becomes a sustainable resource that can be re-refined over and over again. And because EcoPower is recycled and re-refined from reclaimed engine oil, it also helps reduce our dependence on crude and foreign oil. It takes 42 gallons of crude oil to make the same amount of high-quality engine oil you get from recycling 1 gallon of used engine oil.

To learn more about EcoPower, visit www.ecopoweroil.com.

Written and published by experts, Jobbers World is brought to you by
Petroleum Trends International, Inc.
Copyright ©
2012 Petroleum Trends International, Inc.

 

Lubricating Specialties Company Moves Management Up and Expands Facilities Out

January 22, 2013

Stephen Milam, CEO of Lubricating Specialties Company (LSC) announced today, that effective January 23rd, Sydney Thwaites will assume the responsibilities of President and Chief Operating Officer of LSC, Rob Kress will become the Senior Vice President, and LSC has completed the start-up phase of its newest facility located in Azusa, California.

Sydney Thwaites promoted to President/COO:
Mr. Thwaites has been with LSC for 15 years and was formerly the Chief Financial Officer for the company. Thwaites has worked very closely with the senior management team at LSC and has been involved in all aspects the business. Milam says, “Sydney has a proven track record of success with our organization and has made a significant contribution to our growth. Most recently he completed the company’s newest partnership which has developed into our forth facility located in Azusa California.” In his new capacity as President/COO, Sydney will be responsible for all operations, technical and financial activities of the company.

Mr. Thwaites joined LSC in 1998 and holds a BS in Accounting and Finance from California Lutheran University.

LSC welcomes Rob Kress back:
Rob Kress will rejoin LSC on January 23rd in the role of Senior Vice President. Although Rob left LSC in 2012 to spend some time in the base oil trading business, he says he is glad to be back to LSC. “Whereas base oil trading is certainly an interesting area, my heart and history have always been in the finished lubricants business,” says Kress. This is certainly understandable when one looks at Rob’s history in the business.

After attaining both his MS and BS in Chemical Engineering from the University of Chicago, Rob started his career in lubricants in 1977 as a chemist at CITGO. From there, Rob advanced his career with CITGO to senior management positions both domestically and internationally in technology, sales, and marketing.Rob originally joined LSC during 2003 after working at the CITGO Corporation for nearly 24 years.”

LSC completes start-up phase of new facility:
LSC’s newest facility is in Azusa, California and becomes the company’s fourth facility in Southern California serving the western United States as well as exports to the Asia Pacific Region. After almost a full year in reconstruction and start up testing the facility is now ready for full time production. It sits on 4.9 acres, currently has 20 storage tanks, bulk truck loading and unloading capabilities, 4 freight docks, 3 small packaging lines, a full service laboratory on site and an operations management team in place. The facility is owned in a partnership by LSC and its partner who is located in China. LSC is the operating partner and the majority owner of the facility. The new facility is currently producing aftermarket fuel and lubricant additives, with capacity available for expanding into other products. From this new facility LSC will expand its product offerings to all of its existing customers as well as be able to offer unique products and services to new customers.

About Lubricating Specialties Company
LSC, a well-established blender and filler of lubricants and greases, is a one-stop, intensely customer-focused solutions company.  Since 1928, LSC has been providing the highest quality products and services to a broad customer base in a variety of industries.  LSC currently has over two hundred employees and four manufacturing/distribution facilities located in LA County, making it the largest U.S. blender west of the Rocky Mountains.  In addition to its blending and packaging operations, LSC provides a broad range of liquid storage, transloading, warehousing, distribution and export services to the lubricant and chemical industries.  LSC is an ISO 9001:2008 certified company. Click for More

 

Chemlube International LLC Joins to Support PQIA’s Efforts to Help Assure the Quality and Integrity of Motor Oils, Transmission Fluids, and Other Lubricants

January 22, 2013

The Petroleum Quality Institute of America (PQIA), announced today that Chemlube International LLC has joined the ranks of other industry stake-holders supporting PQIA’s efforts to assure the quality and integrity of lubricants in the market.

Rob Nobel, President of Chemlube International LLC, says, “The support of PQIA was not a hard decision to make in that PQIA’s efforts to help assure the quality of lubricants in the marketplace align well with our market philosophy and reputation.” Click for more

 

Parman Energy Corporation Announces the Appointment of Stephen L. Moore as President.

January 15, 2013

Steve Moore brings over 20 years of experience to the Parman Energy management team. While serving as President, Moore’s leadership and industry knowledge will play a key role as the petroleum solutions company looks to expand their market reach.

R. Barry Shipp, CEO announced that Steve Moore will be joining the company as President. Parman Energy is a Nashville based supplier of motor fuels, lubricants and diesel exhaust fluid.

“We at Parman Energy are pleased to have someone with Steve’s long standing industry experience in the petroleum distribution business. As we move towards expanding our geographical footprint, Steve’s skills and experience will prove invaluable in meeting our growth strategy,” said Shipp. “His industry knowledge and unique ability to develop direction, vision, and relationship building will insure our success.”

Moore joins Parman Energy continuing a 20 year career in the distribution of refined petroleum products and services. “I am most pleased to join the Parman team. The leadership group at Parman has built a first class organization that is poised for continued growth and prosperity”, says Moore. “We are at a critical point to successfully perpetuate our growth strategy and take advantage of market opportunities ahead.” Moore is a native of Texas with a finance degree from Southern Methodist University. His career roles have taken him California to Utah. He and his wife Julie have relocated from Park City, Utah, where they have lived for twenty years to Nashville, Tennessee.

About Parman Energy:
For almost a century Parman Energy has been supplying effective and timely lubrication and fuel solutions for businesses and industries throughout the southeast US. With more than 12 STLE Certified Lubrication Specialists and 15 employees certified as Oil Monitoring Analysts (OMA), Parman Energy offers a highly skilled staff capable to ensure proper equipment lubrication. Parman Energy also offers a full line of lubricants as well as quality DEF products and equipment. Strategically located across the state of Tennessee, Parman Energy will make sure you are good to go on all your fuel and lubrication needs. 

 

UES Names Mike Reddick VP of Sales and Marketing

January 15, 2013

Universal Environmental Services, a member of Avista Oil AG, announced that Mike Reddick has joined the company as Vice President of Sales and Marketing Re-Refined Products. Reddick is now responsible for leading product sales and marketing for Avista’s new re-refinery located in Peachtree City, Georgia. The new facility will process 30 million gallons of used oil per year and start operations in May of 2013.

Mike Reddick, an industry veteran with more than 25 years of experience, most recently served as Vice President of Champion Brands, LLC of Clinton, Missouri. Mike earned a BSBA from Columbia College and an MBA from the Breech School of Business at Drury University. He can be reached by e-mail at mreddick@universalenviro.com.

 

O’Rourke Petroleum Acquires Penco Oil Company

January 14, 2013 (Second Edition)

O’Rourke Petroleum is pleased to announce the recent acquisition of Penco OilCompany, expanding the company’s reach and growth potential in East Texas and surrounding states.

Based in Tyler, Texas, Penco has been a family-owned and operated distributor of lubricant products and services since 1963.  The company’s rich history dates back to 1933 when it opened as a Standard of Ohio oil and gas distributor.  Penco is a Shell distributor that currently offers products from Pennzoil, Quaker State, Castrol, and Shell, as well as a variety of related lubricant services.

Mush Khan, President and COO of O’Rourke, and Joe Smith, CEO of Penco, along with their respective leadership teams, will work closely and diligently to ensure a smooth and seamless transition for both employees and customers.

“We are delighted with our decision to sell our family business to O’Rourke,” said Smith.  “We have complete trust that our customers’ satisfaction, and the needs of our employees, will continue to be a top priority going forward.  In addition, I am confident the expanded line of products and services now available through O’Rourke will help our customers streamline processes and, ultimately, solve many of their business challenges and needs.”

Khan tells JobbersWorld, “I don’t know that I could have hand-picked a better company to bring into the O’Rourke family. The similarities in our operating philosophies, our commitment to providing excellence in service to customers, our internal cultures, and our mix of products and services blend together exceptionally well.  We look forward to welcoming the staff of Penco, and their loyal customer base, into our newly-expanded organization.”

O’Rourke will continue to seek expansion opportunities throughout Texas and along the Gulf Coast with leading distributors and businesses that are a fit with the company’s long-term strategic goals.  O’Rourke currently provides a variety of petroleum products and services including lubricants, fuels, and related environmental services.

JobbersWorld will continue to follow Mush Khan and O’Rourke Petroleum, and will sit down with Mush in the upcoming weeks to get his insight and perspective on the future of the lubricants industry, where he believes the market is going, and his personal vision for O’Rourke.  We look forward to sharing that information with JobbersWorld readers soon.

About O’Rourke Petroleum
O’Rourke Petroleum is a Houston-based distributor of lubricants, fuels, and select environmental services. Family-owned and operated since 1932, O’Rourke provides petroleum products and services to the Automotive, Construction, Industrial, Marine, Oil & Gas, Petrochemical & Refining, and Transportation industries.  With bulk and packaged products readily available from its distribution facilities in Houston, Dallas, and Tyler, as well as satellite locations in San Antonio and Victoria, Texas, O’Rourke serves customers across the Gulf Coast and throughout the U.S.  O’Rourke has the certified staff, expertise, in-house resources, and proven track record to ensure complete “cradle to grave” petroleum management, and is one of only 31 Shell Alliance Distributors across the country.  To learn more, visit www.orpp.com.

 

RelaDyne Acquires Newcomb Oil Lubricant Division

January 14, 2013

Newcomb Oil Co. announced the sale of its lubricants business division located at 601 Wilson Boulevard, Bardstown, Kentucky, to RelaDyne, Cincinnati, Ohio.

RelaDyne is one of the largest providers of integrated equipment and lubrication reliability for the industrial, commercial, and automotive businesses in the United States.

RelaDyne has acquired only the lubricants division of Newcomb Oil Co. The deal was effective December 31, 2012. Newcomb Oil will continue to operate FiveStar Food Marts in Kentucky and Indiana along with providing quality fuel products for residential home heat, commercial, industrial, and agriculture customers. RelaDyne will lease the facility in Wilson Industrial Park. Existing Newcomb Oil Co. employees at this facility have joined the RelaDyne team.

Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, RelaDyne is a United States leader in lubricants, Diesel Exhaust Fluid, and reliability services. Combined, the RelaDyne companies have more than 275 years of industry experience. The initial RelaDyne sales, distribution and services platform is strategically located within the central corridor of the United States, an area that accounts for approximately 50 percent of the U.S. lubricant market.

RelaDyne plans to integrate the Bardstown facility into a broader distribution network structure. As a result, the addition of new products and services and a broader geographic footprint will allow even better service in the future.

 

Western Marketing, Inc. (WMI) Receives Chevron’s Highest Honor for Distributors of Its Lubricants – The 2012 Eagle Award

January 14, 2013

Each year, the Chevron 1st Source Lubrication Marketer with the highest overall Recognition Score is honored with the prestigious Eagle Award. The Eagle Award acknowledges Western Marketing’s unparalleled passion and commitment to the Chevron lubricants business with focus on premium products and coolants, value-based selling, and year-over-year volume growth. Western Marketing’s successful partnership with Chevron, and strength of their sales/service teams, is demonstrated by this outstanding performance. Chevron senior management announced this industry achievement at their Annual Leadership Forum held late last year in Scottsdale, AZ.

Mike Miller, Western Marketing’s president and chief executive officer commented “For decades WMI has annually ranked amongst the highest in Chevron’s “Signature Class” of marketers so it’s especially nice to receive this unique recognition for the quality products and services the entire Western Marketing team provides our customers.”

Commercial fleet, industrial, agricultural and vehicle repair shops can contact the Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, Longview, Texas and Stroud, Oklahoma sales offices to learn more about the lubrication services and products offered. In addition to providing clients throughout West Texas and Oklahoma lubricants, WMI is the primary supplier of BlueDEF™ diesel exhaust fluid across the region and also carries an extensive inventory of over 4,500 automotive-related items in its warehouse locations including 160 different types of bulk motor oils and fluids.

 About Western Marketing
Western Marketing Inc. is a leading, multi-branded distributor of lubricants including heavy-duty motor oil, specialized industrial lubricants and natural gas engine oil. Products are delivered out of five primary distribution warehouses located in Abilene, Amarillo, Lubbock, Longview, Texas; and Stroud, Oklahoma. Its bulk tank farms consists of over 450 separate holding tanks totaling in excess of three million gallons of lubricant capacity. Originally founded by the W. P. Wright family, in 1990 it was purchased by local Abilene entrepreneurs, Messrs. Thacker and Hasten, who operated it for two decades. In 2010, two Dallas-based Private Equity organizations, Wingate Partners and CrimStone Partners, bought WMI and have continued the company’s tradition of expanding its distribution facilities and investing in the fleet. Western Marketing has also begun pursuing acquisitions in and around its existing geographic foot print.

For more information see WMI’s website: www.westmktg.com

 

J.A.M. Distributing Company Names Jeff Kramer as New Chief Executive Officer

January 9, 2013

 J.A.M. Distributing Company today announced the appointment of Jeff Kramer as its chief executive officer, effective immediately. This follows news of J.A.M.’s founder and long-time CEO, Johnny Maniscalco, retiring after Ridgemont Equity Partners acquired the Company late last year.

“We are excited to join the rest of the J.A.M. leadership team in welcoming Jeff as the Company’s new CEO and firmly believe that his twenty five years of experience and unique skill set will help propel J.A.M. forward in the coming years,” said Jack Purcell, a Principal at Ridgemont. Most recently, Kramer served as a member of the senior management team at Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.

“J.A.M. is a tremendous company with a long history of success and an experienced and passionate team,” said Kramer. “I am extremely excited to be joining J.A.M. and committed to preserving the legacy that makes it such a special business. I look forward to working with Ridgemont and the team to drive the growth and future development of the Company.”

Kramer tells JobbersWorld he joined J.A.M. because “It’s an excellent company with a strong reputation for quality and customer service. It is well positioned for growth in a dynamic industry.” And he adds, “Ridgemont and I both see incredible opportunity to build on this strong foundation.”

When asked about his goals, Kramer told JobbersWorld “As I noted earlier, J.A.M. has built an enviable reputation in the marketplace.   My goals are to continue to build on that foundation and provide the highest quality lubricant and fuel services, leveraging J.A.M.’s already strong focus on customer service.   By working with senior management and the rest of the company’s employees, we see many opportunities for additional organic growth in all of our market segments.   Our goal is to grow by enabling our customers’ success in the attractive Texas marketplace.”

About J.A.M. Distributing Company
J.A.M. Distributing Company is a distributor of lubricants, fuel, base stock, and ancillary products for the industrial, commercial vehicle, passenger vehicle, and marine end markets. The Company is headquartered at its main terminal in Houston, Texas, with additional terminal operations in Dallas, Beaumont, Lufkin, Clute and Galveston. In December 2012, J.A.M. was acquired by Ridgemont Equity Partners, a Charlotte-based investor. The Company continues to operate as one of ExxonMobil’s leading U.S. lubricant distributors. www.jamdistributing.com

About Ridgemont Equity Partners
Ridgemont Equity Partners is a Charlotte-based middle market buyout and growth equity investor. Since 1993, the principals of Ridgemont have invested over $3 billion in more than 110 companies. The firm focuses on investments of $25 million to $75 million in industries in which it has deep expertise, including basic industries and services, energy, healthcare, and telecommunications/media/technology. www.ridgemontep.com

 

PQIA ISSUES CONSUMER ALERTS ON SUPER XXX and LIBERTY GOLD PLUS SMO

January 9, 2013

The Petroleum Quality Institute of America (PQIA) reported on January 7, 2013 that there are two brands of engine oils in the mid-west that consumers should avoid at any price.

These brands include Super XXX marketed by New World Sales in Midlothian, IL, and Liberty Gold Plus SMO sold by Pinnacle Brands, Chicago, IL. Whereas these products may be plentiful in convenience stores and priced a few cents lower than others on the shelf, PQIA says “they will likely cost you plenty in engine repairs if you use them.” Of primary concern is that the products tested have viscosities nearly 75% below their labeled specification. And in PQIA’s words, this oil sounds more like water when you shake the bottle than it does oil. To drive home that point, PQIA posted a video of the bottles being shaken.

CHECK OUT THE VIDEO ON THE PQIA WEBSITE – THE SOUND IS VERY TELLING.

More videos and the details of these brands are posted on PQIA’s website: www.pqiamerica.com

 

MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS

January 2, 2013

SC Fuels has agreed to swap its Texas based operations with Pilot Energy Services (formerly known as Maxum Petroleum Inc.) in exchange for Pilot Energy’s California land based business and southwest operations.

December 19, 2012 –  The two companies have signed a definitive agreement that will see SC Fuels take on the California businesses formerly known as General Petroleum and CL Bryant, as well as the Canyon State Oil business in Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas and Colorado. In exchange, Pilot Energy will receive the business formally known as United Fuel & Energy (“UFE”) that is primarily located in Texas. The transaction does not affect either the traditional wholesale operations of SC Fuels in the same geographies or the marine business of Pilot Energy. The transaction is scheduled to close on January 31, 2013. Click for More

Ridgemont Equity Partners Acquires J.A.M. Distributing Company

December 19, 2012 – Ridgemont Equity Partners, a middle market buyout and growth equity investor, announced the closing of a majority equity investment in J.A.M. Distributing Company, a leading distributor of lubricants, fuel, base stock and ancillary products. The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. J.A.M. is headquartered at its main terminal in Houston, Texas, with additional terminal operations in Dallas, Beaumont, Lufkin, Clute and Galveston. For over forty years, the Company has been a leading lubricant distributor of ExxonMobil products and today serves the industrial, commercial vehicle, passenger vehicle and marine end markets.  Click for more

PetroChoice Acquires US Lubes LLC

December 17, 2012 – PetroChoice announces the acquisition of the New Jersey Division of US Lubes, adding depth to its Mid-Atlantic distribution efforts. US Lubes and its predecessors, located in Blue Bell, PA, have been committed to distributing lubricants to the Automotive, Commercial and Industrial segments for over 80 years. Key brands include CAM2, Gulf, Petro-Canada, and Old World Industries products. Click for More

PetroChoice Announces the Acquisition of Craft Oil Corporation 

December 3, 2012 – In recent years, PetroChoice has been expanding its distribution efforts throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region. Adding depth to its distribution, PetroChoice has acquired Craft Oil Corporation.  “We have great respect for Craft Oil,” said Shane O’Kelly, CEO of PetroChoice. “We have much in common and each company brings unique talents and expertise to the combined organization. Together we will have unsurpassed capabilities and infrastructure to fulfill the specialized needs of lubricant customers throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region.” Click for More

The Deal is Done! WCP and Metalmark Complete Recapitalization of Maxum Petroleum with Pilot Flying J 

September 5, 2012 – Pilot Flying J, Waud Capital Partners, Metalmark Capital and Maxum Petroleum announced that Pilot Flying J completed its previously announced acquisition of a controlling interest in Maxum for cash and Pilot Flying J’s contribution of Western Petroleum into Maxum. Current investors, including WCP, Metalmark and Maxum management, received cash proceeds in the transaction and made a meaningful re-investment in the new venture. Click for more

Twinco Merges with DYK Automotive

August 31, 2012 – Minneapolis-based private equity firm ShoreView Industries agreed to merge portfolio company Twinco Romax LLC, a manufacturer of automotive aftermarket parts and chemicals, with DYK Automotive LLC. Twinco Romax LLC and DYK Automotive, LLC, the parent company of AP Auto and Keltner Enterprises, have announced a definitive merger agreement. The merger, which combines two of the strongest organizations in the industry, creates a new national automotive aftermarket distribution and manufacturing company with a commitment to maintain its strong regional presence. Click for more

Total Energy, LLC Acquires Ocean State Oil

August 3, 2012 – Total Energy, LLC (Part of the Santoro family of Companies) acquired the assets of Ocean State Oil, a leading lubricant marketer in Southern New England on August 1st 2012. This is a particularly significant and interesting acquisition, in part, due to the size and geographic reach of the aggregate companies. Established in 1973, Ocean State Oil is one of the leading marketers of lubricants in the Southern New England region. Click for more

Pilot Flying J to Acquire Maxum Petroleum

July 20, 2012 – Pilot Flying J, Metalmark Capital and Maxum Petroleum announced that Pilot Flying J will acquire a controlling interest in Maxum for cash and Pilot Flying J’s contribution of Western Petroleum into Maxum. Current investors, including Maxum management, Metalmark and Waud, will re-invest in the new venture. Maxum is one of the largest independent energy logistics companies in North America, selling and distributing over 1.3 billion gallons of refined petroleum products and serving over 15,000 customers. Click for more

Calumet Signs Agreement to Acquire Royal Purple

June 11, 2012 – Calumet Specialty Products Partners, L.P. (“Calumet”) announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Royal Purple, Inc. for total consideration of approximately $335 million, The Royal Purple Acquisition is expected to close by the middle of July 2012, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approval. Royal Purple is a manufacturer of high performance lubricants primarily for automotive, industrial, marine, motorcycle and racing applications. Click for more

PetroChoice Completes the Acquisition of Suburban Oil Company

June 4, 2012 – PetroChoice announced it has acquired Suburban Oil Company located in Mason, Ohio. PetroChoice is focused on acquiring best-in-class lubricant distributors to expand both its product and service offering to customers and its geographic footprint. “Suburban is a great fit with PetroChoice and we are impressed by Suburban’s highly trained team. Like us, they pride themselves on delivering comprehensive lubrication solutions to their customers,” said Shane O’Kelly, CEO of PetroChoice. “This acquisition creates a significant opportunity for us to expand our distribution presence into Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky.” Click for more

Energy Transfer Partners to Acquire Sunoco in $5.3 Billion Transaction 

April 30, 2012 – Energy Transfer Partners, L.P. and Sunoco, Inc. announced they have entered into a definitive merger agreement whereby ETP will acquire Sunoco in a unit and cash transaction valued at $50.13 per share, or a total consideration of approximately $5.3 billion, based on ETP’s closing price on April 27, 2012. This combination will create one of the largest and most diversified energy partnerships in the country by expanding ETP’s geographic footprint and strengthening its presence in the transportation, terminalling and logistics of crude oil, NGLs and refined products.

PetroChoice Completes the Acquisition of Lorenz Lubricant Company

April 30, 2012 – PetroChoice announced it has acquired the assets of Lorenz Lubricant Company, Inc. “Lorenz brings a group of very talented people with deep expertise to PetroChoice,” said Steve King, President of PetroChoice- Midwest Division. “We believe the partnership between PetroChoice and Lorenz, along with our recent acquisition of Rapids Hydraulics, will be very complementary given both companies’ focus on providing unmatched service and reliability and we are excited about the growth opportunities for the combined businesses. We are also looking forward to increasing our presence in the expanded geographic footprint that Lorenz will provide.” Click for more

NOCO Energy Corporation Expands Operations into Pennsylvania and West Virginia

March 13, 2012 – NOCO Distribution, LLC, a wholly owned business unit of NOCO Inc., announced today that it has acquired three lubricant distribution warehouses, located in Youngwood, Erie, and Ridgeway, Pennsylvania from Windward Petroleum, Inc.  Customers in Western Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia are served from the facilities.  All former Windward employees have joined the NOCO Distribution team. This acquisition is strategically important to NOCO as our lubricant distribution footprint now extends from Ottawa, Ontario in the North, Pittsburgh in the South, Buffalo in the West, and Vermont in the East. Click for more

Sun Coast Resources Inc. Acquires The Branded Fuel and Lubricant Distribution Business of Ada Resources, Inc.

March 13, 2012 – Sun Coast Resources, Inc. announced the completion of an acquisition in Houston, Texas to further expand its branded and unbranded fuel and lubricant distribution business. ADA supplies and delivers branded ConocoPhillips and CITGO fuels to independently owned convenience stores in Harris County. In addition ADA supplies ConocoPhillips; BP, 76 and Castrol branded lubricants to municipalities and commercial end users, and operates a fleet of fuel and lubricant transportation trucks from Old Ocean and Houston, Texas. ADA employs nearly 50 experienced and dedicated fuel and lubricant personnel who have joined Sun Coast to continue to operate the acquired assets and business from both the Old Ocean and Sun Coast facilities in Houston. Click for more

Keller-Heartt Oil Acquires Long Time Competitor Lou-Bob Corp.

Feb 29, 2012 – Keller-Heartt Oil, a full-service Shell Oil alliance lubricants distributor serving the automotive, industrial and trucking industries announced the acquisition of Lou-Bob Corporation, a Chicago-based oil company founded in 1924. Click for more

Pilot Flying J to Acquire Western Petroleum

Feb 29, 2012 – Pilot Flying J announced that Western Petroleum LLC (formally Western Petroleum, Inc.) has agreed to be acquired by Pilot Flying J. For the few who may not be familiar with Pilot Flying J, the company is headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, and is one of the nation’s largest wholesale fuel providers; delivering over 500 million gallons of fuel to thousands of customers in 47 states and eight Canadian provinces. They operate over 550 retail locations across North America and the company is the largest operator of travel centers and travel plazas in North America. Click for more

Craft Oil Acquires Neslo Petroleum

Feb 21, 2012 – Craft Oil Corp., a privately held oil lubricant and equipment distributor based in Avoca, PA, announced the acquisition of Neslo Petroleum Products, Inc. in Fords, NJ. The acquisition will mean the relocation of the current Craft Oil operation in New Jersey to the current Neslo facilities in Fords, NJ. Click for more

Greenbriar Acquires PetroChoice

Jan 17, 2012 – Greenbriar Equity Group LLC today announced the acquisition of PetroChoice. PetroChoice is a leading, value-added distributor of petroleum lubricant solutions. Greenbriar acquired the Company from KRG Capital Partners.  Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.  Click for more

PRICING

Is the Spread Dancing to the Beat of a Different Drummer?

December 14, 2012 – As of today, the spread between Brent Crude and 100N Group II base stock is just under $1.25 a gallon. This is a significant decline from an average of $1.87 seen from the start of the year to the most recent round of base stock price decreases announced in mid-November.   Interestingly, these price decreases occurred during a period where the price of crude oil has been relatively stable.  As noted in previous issues of JobbersWorld, this suggests that base oil prices are reacting more to the supply and demand balances of base oil (supply being long) than they are to current crude oil prices.  And with base oil demand in the US and Europe at best soft, Chevron’s Pascagoula plant gearing up, new re-refiners come on line, and GTL becoming a reality, you can bet we are looking at some interesting times ahead. Click for More

 Add BP/Castrol to the List of Lubricant Suppliers Announcing Price Decreases.

November 29, 2012 –  BP/Castrol marketers in the US got the word yesterday that BP will reduce list prices on selected Consumer and Commercial Automotive lubricants and ancillary products effective January 14, 2013. The price decreases will range from $0.12 to $0.24 a gallon.  Click for More

 The Details of Decreases

November 19, 2012 – In less than a week after the announced price decreases on base oils, two majors announced price decreases on finished lubricants. A third major does the same. The first was Phillips66 on November 9, 2012, Phillips66 announced that effective November 12, 2012 it will decrease prices for most finished lubricants by $0.30 a gallon, and $0.02 a pound on grease. Products exempt from this decrease include certain fully synthetic HDEO, ATF, gear oils and industrial lubricants, as well as private label products. This was followed by an announcement by Chevron of a general posted price decrease for its lubricants, gear oils and greases by up to 4% for most SKU’s. The effective date of this decrease is December 10, 2012. It should be noted that commercial and Industrial synthetic products, coolants and fuel additives are excluded from the decrease. These decreases are followed by CITGO announcing it will implement a finished lubricant price decrease for marketers in the CITGO, MileMaster and Mystik brands. This decrease, which takes effect December 16, will average $0.30 a gallon on lubricants and $0.02 a pound on grease. This decrease, however, does not include CLARION white oils, water glycol products and process oils. In addition to the majors, Amalie announced that with the exception of its Greased Lightning branded automotive chemicals, Amalie Oil Company will reduce the price for all its oils and chemicals, that are shipped on or after November 26, 2012, by $0.32 per gallon. In addition, it will reduce grease prices by $0.04 a pound. Click for More

 Prices on the Move … down

November 13, 2012 – First Base Oil… On November 7th, Motiva announced a base oil price decrease of 25 to 38 cents a gallon, depending on grade. Then on November 8, Chevron announced a price decrease ranging from 25 to 38 cents a gallon for its base oils. On the same day, Phillips announced its base oil prices would decrease from 25 to 48 cents a gallon. Following right on the heels of these price decreases, Flint Hills announced on November 9th that it too is decreasing its base oil prices by 23 to 40 cents a gallon, again depending on grade. But if we focus on the work horse grades, these decreases amount to close to 40 cents a gallon. Next up: Finished Lubricants… Although rare, whereas we have seen announced price decreases on base oils in the past, market dynamics around last week’s decreases have some scratching their heads. This is because in less than a week after the announced price decreases on base oils, two majors announced price decreases on finished lubricants.Click for More

 The Price Spreads are Speaking

September 5, 2012 – With the price of crude moving up while the price of base oil was trending down and is now flat, it’s clear the spread between the two has increased. Traditionally, this means something has got to give. And if history repeats itself, unless the trajectory of crude prices soon changes course, it’s likely the spread will compress as a result of increases in base oil prices.  And when and if that happens, it’s not long before the price of finished lubes follows. Click for more

Lubricant Prices up While Crude Heads Down

May 22, 2012 – As reported by JobbersWorld over the last month, most of the majors and independent lubricant manufacturers announced price increase on finished lubricants taking effect this month and next. Whereas many marketers anticipated these increases were imminent based on the trajectory of crude oil prices since the beginning of the year, some are now questioning if the justification for the increases can be sustained in light of the fact that crude oil prices have been retreating over the last few weeks. Click for more

 Safety-Kleen and ARG Announce Price Increases

April 30, 2012 – Safety-Kleen announced a price increase on blended products of $0.25 a gallon. This increase is effective May 20, 2012. Effective May 21, 2012, prices for motor oil, ATF, gear oil, greases and industrial lubricants sold by American Refining Group will increase by $0.35 a gallon. Some of the company’s synthetic and specialty lubricants, however, increase at a higher rate. Click for more

 Chevron, ConocoPhillips, and Petro-Canada Announce Price Increases

April 24, 2012 – ConocoPhillips advised it marketers it will raise its finished lubricant prices 3 to 5% effective May 24, 2012. Chevron announced it will increase the price of it lubricants by 3 to 6%. This increase is effective May 21, 2012. Petro-Canada advised its marketers in the US of a price increase of 3 to 6%. This increase is effective May 22, 2012. This price increase reportedly excludes Process Oils (Paraflex) and Purity FG White Oils.Chemlube also announced a price increase; $0.30 per gallon on all bulk lubricants except fully synthetic products which are increased by $0.40 per gallon. These increases are effective May 10, 2012. Click for more

 Looks Like Another Round of Price Increases 

April 17, 2012 – Shell announced a general price increase for its lubricants of 4%. This increase is effective May 19, 2012. Shell says the increase is due in part to increasing costs of raw materials used in production and delivery of its products. Warren Oil announced a price increase of $0.30 a gallon on bulk effective May 7, 2012. It will also increase packaged oil prices by $0.35 a gallon on May 21 and grease prices by $0.05 a pound. CAM2 announced a price increase on bulk orders placed after April 27, 2012 and packaged orders placed after May 4. Its bulk lubricant prices will increase by $0.30 a gallon and packaged lubricants will move up $0.35 a gallon. In addition, CAM2’s prices on grease will increase by $0.05 a pound. Smitty’s Supply announced an increase of $0.35 a gallon for both bulk and packaged lubricants and $0.05 a pound on grease. These increases are effective May 1, 2012. Smitty’s attributes these increases to increases in the cost of raw materials. Effective May 1, 2012, the Delfin Group announced it will increase the price of its lubricants by $0.25 a gallon. Click for more

Chevron First to Move on Group II

March 27, 2012 – Chevron announced it will increase its base oil prices by $0.20 to $0.25 a gallon. This increase is effective March 28. Click for more

 Base Oil Price Outlook 

March 27, 2012 – So here we go in what appears to be another round of base oil price increases. It started with naphthenic base oil, then Group I, and now we are looking at Chevron as the first to move in Group IIs. So what does it mean, where are prices heading? Well if history helps predict the future, we have a good deal to draw from. To start, although there have been some asperities in base oil pricing trends, the trend line is up. Click for more

 Base Oil Prices Move Up

March 16, 2012 – Holly announced an across the board price increase on paraffinic base oils of $0.30 a gallon. The increase is effective March 22. Holly is an API Group I base oil producer.  Nynas raises pale oil prices by $0.35 a gallon. San Joaquin Refining – up $0.20 to $0.25 a gallon, Calumet – up %0.25 a gallon, Cross Oil – up $0.25 a $0.35 a gallon, Ergon – up 0.28 a gallon. Click for more

Base Oil Spreads Tightening

Feb. 14, 2012 – The spread between Brent Crude oil and 100N Group II base oil has been trending down since the beginning of the year. If history repeats itself, we can expect to see upward movement in the price of base oil should this trend continue. And when this happens, it doesn’t take long for finished lubricant prices to follow suit.Click for more

 

PERSONNEL AND PROMOTIONS

Roy Fewkes Joins PQIA’s Technical Sub-committee to Help Ensure the Quality and Integrity of Lubricants in the Market   

December 14, 2012 – The Petroleum Quality Institute of America (PQIA) announced that Roy Fewkes, Driveline Fluids Group Leader for GM Powertrain, has joined the Technical Sub-committee of PQIA’s Advisory Board.  “Roy has deep market and technical expertise in the automotive industry and is a global thought leader in the quality and performance of Driveline Fluids,” says Thomas F. Glenn, President of PQIA. Glenn adds “Roy is a welcomed addition to our technical subcommittee and his credentials speak for themselves.” In addition to Roy’s distinguished position as the Driveline Fluids Group Leader for GM Powertrain, he is Chairman of the GM ATF and Gear oils Approval Committee. Roy is also a Fellow of the Institute of the Motor Industry, Member of the STLE and the Society of Automotive Engineers, Associate Member of the Institute of Road Transport Engineers, and an Associate Member of the Society of Operations Engineers. Roy holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Loughborough University, England and has over 30 years’ experience in motor racing engine and chassis development. Click for More

Cummings to Lead CHS Lubricants

December 14, 2012 – CHS Inc, a leading energy, grains and foods company, has named Rick Cummings as vice president of its Lubricants division, effective Jan. 1, 2013. “Rick has the expertise and passion to immediately begin collaborating to help our customers grow their lubricants businesses,” says Don Olson, senior vice president of Propane, Lubricants and CHS Renewable Fuels. “With his extensive sales and brand marketing experience as well as his strong energy knowledge, Rick will be a key player in helping CHS achieve our aspiration to be the preferred manufacturer and marketer of quality, heavy-duty lubricants in targeted domestic markets.” Cummings will assume responsibility for the manufacturing, distribution and marketing of multiple brands of lubricants, including Cenex® and Farm-Oyl® products, as well as packaging private label lubricants for other leading companies. Click for More

Haag promoted to President of Moore Oil

October 2, 2012 – Moore Oil Company, Inc., a distributor of oil, petroleum and chemical products, has promoted Andrew Haag to president, effective Oct. 1st. He spent eight years working in operations for the company before taking over as vice president of marketing in 2011. Andrew will succeed his father, Scott Haag, as president and represents the fourth generation of his family to work in the oil and petroleum distribution industry. Scott Haag will stay on as CEO and chairman of the company’s board of directors. Click for more

Safety-Kleen’s Rodney Walker Named Sustainability All-Star by Green Fleet Magazine

October 23, 2012 – Rodney Walker, technical director of oil re-refining at Safety-Kleen, was named one of Green Fleet magazine’s 2012 Sustainability All-Stars at the publication’s annual Green Fleet Conference held this year in Schaumburg, Ill. Walker was selected as a Sustainability All-Star for his dedication to sustainability in the fleet industry, significant sustainability achievements, innovative contributions to reducing emissions and fuel consumption, and involvement in industry-wide efforts to promote sustainable fleet transportation solutions. Click for more

Heidi Matheys Joins Ashland as Vice President, Global Brands

October 2, 2012 – Ashland Consumer Markets, a commercial unit of Ashland Inc., announced that Heidi Matheys has joined the company as vice president, global brands. Matheys will be responsible for leading brand management, strategy, marketing and consumer research for the Valvoline™ family of branded products, which includes Valvoline NextGen™ motor oil, the first motor oil that’s 50 percent recycled oil and 100 percent Valvoline protection. She will report to Sam Mitchell, senior vice president and president, Ashland Consumer Markets. Click for more

Shell Names New Leader for Americas Commercial Fuels and Lubricants Businesses

September 20, 2012 – Shell Lubricants named today commercial veteran Istvan Kapitany as the new president of Shell Commercial Fuels and Lubricants Americas, effective January 1, 2013. After four years leading the regional business, Lisa Davis will assume the global position of Executive Vice President Strategy and Portfolio for Shell downstream businesses next year. Click for more

Anwer Hussain, Senior Vice President, Lubricants at CHS, will Retire Effective Nov. 1, 2012.

September 5, 2012 – After three decades, Anwer Hussain, senior vice president, Lubricants at CHS, will retire effective Nov. 1, 2012. “Anwer has made lasting contributions to CHS throughout his career, including leading a very profitable and successful business within Energy and building it through acquisitions and core growth,” says Jay Debertin, executive vice president and chief operating officer, Energy and Foods. Click for more

Phillips 66 Lubricants Engineer Awarded Esteemed Certification

August 31, 2012 – Barry Mandelbaum Receives CLGS® Certification from the National Lubricating Grease Institute (NLGI). Phillips 66 Lubricants, one of the largest finished lubricants suppliers in North America, announced that Lubrication Engineer Barry Mandelbaum, a member of Phillips 66 Lubricants for nearly 30 years, has received CLGS® Certification. This prestigious recognition, which qualifies Mandelbaum as a certified “grease expert,” is awarded by the National Lubricating Grease Institute (NLGI) and sets the standard in lubrication knowledge, credibility and expertise. Only 59 people have received this respected acknowledgement worldwide. Click for more

 

John Massel Named President of Warren Unilube, Inc.

August 7, 2012 – John Massel has been named President of Warren Unilube, Inc., a subsidiary of Warren Oil Company, Inc. of North Carolina. Mr. Massel will be responsible for all sales and operations of the West Memphis, Arkansas lubricant, chemical blending and packaging facility. Mr. Massel comes to Warren Unilube, Inc. with more than 24 years of experience in the lubricants sales, financial management, supply chain and blending and packaging operations, most recently with Pinnacle Oil, Inc. in Indianapolis, Indiana. Click for more

Western Marketing Inc. Announces New President and New Board Member

August 3, 2012 – Mike Miller joined the company as President, following the retirement of Rich Hasten. Mr. Miller brings 30 years of experience in leadership and business management to Western Marketing. Previously, he was President and Chief Operating Officer of Blue Sun Energy, a manufacturer and marketer of branded fuels in the Rocky Mountains and Pacific Northwest. Click for more

Irvin Warren Awarded the Ernst & Young Carolinas Region Entrepreneur of the Year

June 29, 2012 – Mr. William Irvin Warren, President & CEO of Warren Oil Company was awarded the Ernst & Young Carolinas Region Entrepreneur of the Year award in the Commercial and Consumer Products Category.Click for more

Rob Kress Has Joined Chemlube International as Vice President

March 27, 2012 – Rob will concentrate his efforts on expanding Chemlube’s domestic base oil and finished lube business, particularly at CL’s Savannah blending and terminaling facility, as well as contributing to all aspects of Chemlube’s growing business.   Click for more

 

PRODUCTS

Two Leading Engine Manufacturers Certify Universal Lubricants’ ECO ULTRA® Oil for Natural Gas Engines

December 14, 2012 – Universal Lubricants, a leader in sustainable energy solutions, announced that Cummins Inc. and Detroit Diesel Corporation, global leaders in the design and manufacturer of high-performance engines, have certified that ECO ULTRA® CNG/LNG Engine Oil, SAE Grade 15W-40, conforms to the performance specifications required for their natural gas engines. These engines, which reduce emissions, improve fuel and decrease maintenance costs, require special, high-performance engine oils. Click for More

OilSafe Announces Fully Integrated Bulk Storage and Dispensing System

November 29, 2012 – OilSafe announced the completion of its newly developed bulk system for lubrication fluid storage and dispensing. The OilSafe® Work Center is said to provide safe, compact bulk storage and contamination control to promote best practices for lean manufacturing, 5Rs, 5S and OSHA® right-to-know compliance. The final element of the industry-leading OilSafe Visual Lubrication Management System, the OilSafe Work Center is the only modular, scalable bulk system of its kind. Each tank has its own pump and built-in filtration to prevent fluid cross-contamination, and keep fluid storage areas organized, clean and free of the 55-gallon drums that are commonly used. Click for More

Shell Spirax® S6 ATF A295 Developed to Meet Demanding Allison TES 295 Specification

November 29, 2012 – In a joint effort with Allison Transmission to meet the growing global demand for heavy duty automatic transmissions, Shell Lubricants has introduced Shell Spirax® S6 ATF A295 synthetic automatic transmission fluid.  The new lubricant is approved against Allison’s stringent TES-295 specification for extended warranty and extended drain intervals. According to Shell, Spirax® S6 ATF A295 can be relied on to last up to 300,000 miles under normal conditions or 150,000 miles under severe conditions without risk to the transmission components or warranty. Click for More

Chevron Announces New Premium Hydraulic Oils That Deliver Fuel Costs Savings and Enhanced Productivity

October 2, 2012 – Chevron Lubricants introduced three new premium hydraulic oils at MINExpo in Las Vegas, NV. Clarity® Synthetic Hydraulic Oil AW, Rando® HDZ and Rando® HD Premium Oil MV offer multi viscosity or high viscosity index (VI) formulations that deliver fuel cost savings and increases in productivity when compared to conventional monogrades. The new premium hydraulic oils feature improved oxidation and shear stability-versus conventional monogrades-which deliver robust protection to hydraulic pumps. Chevron says, Clarity Synthetic Hydraulic Oil AW (ISO 32, 46, 68), provides excellent performance in low temperature climate, and is designed to give maximum protection to both mobile and stationary vane-, piston-, and gear-type hydraulic pumps in high-performance applications as well as in environmentally sensitive areas. Click for more

Chevron to Consolidate Gas Engine Oils Under HDAX® Brand

July 10, 2012 – Chevron Products Company announced that it is consolidating its gas engine oils under the Chevron HDAX® brand. The focus of the consolidation is on retaining the best products from Chevron’s global portfolio, assuring customers have technology that has been proven in both the lab and the field. Chevron has built its new HDAX Gas Engine Oil line in a way that simplifies the product selection process. Click for more

Castrol Industrial North America Announces the Launch of the Performance Biolubes Product Line

July 10, 2012 – The Performance Biolubes technology platform adds a range of bio-based lubricants, and metalworking fluids to Castrol’s existing line of lubricants supplied to the aviation, industrial manufacturing, marine and energy markets. Initially these products will be available in North America with plans for future roll out to Castrol’s global operations. Click for more

New Pennzoil Ultra™ 0W-40 Designed For All SRT Vehicles

June 11, 2012 – Pennzoil® is introducing the new Pennzoil Ultra™ 0W-40 synthetic motor oil, created alongside Chrysler Group engineers specifically to keep SRT engines running clean. The advanced, co-engineered formulation is the result of months of collaboration between Pennzoil scientists and Chrysler Group engineers to develop motor oil that provides the performance that SRT owners have come to expect from their high-tech engines. Pennzoil Ultra™ 0W-40 is the motor oil Chrysler recommends for use in all SRT engines, exceeding the stringent Chrysler MS-12633 specification. Click for more

Motul® Launches New MC Care™ Product Line

June 4, 2012 – Motul® announces the launch of MC Care™, a comprehensive line of care and maintenance products specifically formulated for motorcycle, ATV and powersports users.  MC Care includes 18 products (nine that are new), which it says “revolutionize the way you care for your motorcycle.” Click for more

TrueSouth Launches Marketing Campaign in Five States 

April 13, 2012 – TruSouth Oil, an industry leader in the blending and packaging of automotive and industrial lubricants, has launched a marketing campaign in five key markets: Shreveport, Dallas, Indianapolis, Pensacola-Mobile and Orlando. The campaign promotes TruSouth’s innovative new product for do-it-yourselfers, TruFuel®, the first pre-mixed fuel engineered for 2-cycle equipment – the engines most commonly found in chainsaws, leaf blowers and trimmers. Click for more

Chevron Introduces Delo 400 NG SAE 15W-40

March 30, 2012 – Chevron Lubricants, maker of the Delo® brand of technologically advanced engine oils, lubricants and coolants, introduced the latest member of its product family, Delo® 400 NG SAE 15W-40. The new product, formulated with Chevron’s ISOSYNTM Technology, is a premium oil for use in compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) engines.

ConocoPhillips Lubricants Introduces New Wireline Lubricant  

March 27, 2012 – ConocoPhillips recently announced the availability of its new Wireline Lubricant.  ConocoPhillips’ Wireline Lubricant, or grease, is designed to maintain a seal and prevent the escape of wellbore fluids during wireline operations in oil and gas completion services.  The new Wireline Lubricant is a specialized, clear formulation designed specifically for high-pressure, high-temperature wireline environments. Click for more

EcoPower Receives dexos1™ Engine Oil Specification

Feb 29, 2012 – Safety-Kleen’s EcoPower® has become the first re-refined engine oil to meet the GM dexos1™ specification.  dexos™ is a global engine oil specification designed by GM Powertrain engineers to increase fuel efficiency, extend the life of emissions systems and produce fewer emissions in GM vehicles. Click for more

Calumet Specialty Products Partners Announce the Introduction of SuperCal Motor Oil

Jan 17, 2012 – Calumet Specialty Products Partners, refiner of specialty hydrocarbon products, recently announced the introduction of their SuperCal line of high quality motor oil and lubricant products. Calumet’s primary focus with SuperCal is to deliver high quality, high performance lubricants that address a range of customer needs in today’s market. Click for more

 

FACILITIES

Ultrachem’s Solar Project Completed

October 23, 2012 – “We are pleased to announce the completion of this major renewable energy project”, said Bob Whiting, President of Ultrachem. “Not only will the system improve the environment by reducing our reliance on traditional fossil fuels, it also relieves our energy burden from the electric grid during peak hours which benefits the community. All of the people at EnterSolar were fantastic to work with and completed the entire project on schedule.” The system was installed on the roof of Ultrachem’s Corporate Headquarters located in New Castle, Delaware and will generate enough energy to serve the entire annual electricity needs of the Ultrachem facility. Click for more

Smitty’s Starts Work on $10 Million Warehouse Expansion

October 23, 2012 – Smitty’s Supply has started work on a $10 million warehouse and office expansion. The additions should add 50 jobs to the 400 people already employed by the company in northern Tangipahoa Parish about 15 miles south of the Mississippi state line. Owner Ed Smith, at a groundbreaking in Roseland, said that the work would also employ 100 construction workers to build the 165,000 square-foot expansion. The project will double the company’s warehouse capacity. Click for more

 ExxonMobil to Expand High-Performance Synthetic Lubricants Capacity in Louisiana

September 27, 2012 – ExxonMobil is investing more than $200 million to expand its Baton Rouge chemical and lubricants plants to increase capacity for synthetic lubricant base stocks manufacturing and lubricants blending, packaging and storage. The expansion will increase ExxonMobil’s worldwide capacity of synthetic esters and alkylated naphthalene by more than 25 percent to meet the demand for high-performance lubricants made with these advanced products. The project will include construction of a state-of-the-art blending center for synthetic aviation oil at ExxonMobil’s lubricant blending plant in Port Allen, La. Click for more

Fire at Chevron Richmond Refinery

August 7, 2012 – Last night, at approximately 6PM PST, Chevron shut down its 240,000-barrel-a-day refinery in Richmond, CA after experiencing a fire at its only crude unit. Whereas the fire is out, there is plenty of speculation about how this incident will impact the price of fuels and base oils over the next few months. According to documents filed with the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, other process units at Chevron’s Richmond refinery include a 64,800- barrel-a-day diesel hydrotreater, a 96,000-barrel-a-day jet hydrotreater, a 57,600-barrel-a-day naphtha hydrotreater, a 90,000-barrel-a-day fluid catalytic cracker and a 60,900- barrel-a-day isocracker. Click for more

GROWMARK Lubricants in Council Bluffs ISO 9001:2008 Certified

June 4, 2012 – The GROWMARK Lubricants manufacturing facility in Council Bluffs, Iowa, has achieved ISO 9001:2008 certification, signifying quality control of all business processes. “The certification process looks at our entire business, from the moment an order is placed, through manufacturing, shipping, and final delivery,” said Makayla Umphreys, inventory and production manager. “We now have a plan in place to make sure we meet customer expectations every step of the way.” The certification comes on the heels of a major renovation at the facility, which increased storage space and updated the laboratory with state-of-the-art equipment. An open house will be held later this summer. Click for more

Shell to Close Lubricant Blend Plant in Wood River

Feb 29, 2012 – Shell Oil Co. plans to close its lubricant blending and packaging plant in Roxana/Wood River, IL where Shell began operations in 1918. The closing of the Wood River plant will also result of closing of a distribution plant in O’Fallon. According to Shell, the Wood River Blending Plant is closing because it needs major upgrades and because it is on property Shell doesn’t own. Click for more

 

MARKETER RELATIONS

Universal Lubricants Partners with Interstate Distributor Company

October 2, 2012 – Universal Lubricants announced a business partnership with Interstate Distributor Company. Under the agreement, IDC converted its trucking fleet of over 1,300 units to the ECO ULTRA® engine oil line. IDC’s fleet features state-of-the-art, fuel-efficient technologies that minimize environmental impacts while also maximizing economic benefits to the company. IDC selected ECO ULTRA because it helps address both priorities. Click for more

Universal Lubricants Celebrates Two Year Partnership with Superior Honda of Omaha

August 7, 2012 – Universal Lubricants, a manufacturer and distributor of premium lubricants, announced that Superior Honda of Omaha has reached the two year endorsement milestone supporting ECO ULTRA®. Superior Honda of Omaha, a recipient of the Honda President’s Award for eight consecutive years, recommends ECO ULTRA as a preferred product because of its dual focus on sustainability and performance excellence. The dealership has performed more than 2,000 oil changes using ECO ULTRA, the motor oil made from re-refined base oil. Click for more

Apache Oil Company Announces Non-Exclusive Distributor Agreement with Castrol Lubricants

June 29, 2012 – BP Lubricants USA Inc., in its continuing efforts to strengthen their Distributor Network in the Houston, TX marketplace, has awarded a non-exclusive distributor agreement for packaged and bulk lubricants to Apache Oil Company located in Pasadena Texas. The addition of Castrol automotive and heavy duty lubricants provide Apache a great premium product line to help current and new customers keep equipment on the road, and on the job, cost effectively. Click for more

Chevron Raises the Bar with its 1st Source Elite Marketers 

March 7, 2012 – Whereas Chevron set the bar high with its Signature Class marketer requirements, it moved the bar even higher this year when it announced its new 1st Source Elite Marketers. In short, Chevron says 1st Source Elite Marketers are those with a passion to win and commit to the Chevron brand. To wear the badge of a 1st Source Elite Marketer and enjoy the benefits, Chevron marketers must meet certain volume requirements. One such requirement is the purchase of 75% of their lubricant and coolants from Chevron (inclusive of branded and private label); and meet a minimum volume commitment of 750 thousand gallons a year. Then there is growth. 1st Source Elite Marketers are required to post a minimum of 1% growth in premium products from 2011 to 2012 and 5% growth in coolant volume over the same period. Click for more

Congrats to Sun Coast Resources!  

Feb 16, 2012 – Chevron Lubricants, maker of the Delo® brand of technologically advanced engine oils, lubricants and coolants, recently awarded Sun Coast Resources, a Houston-based petroleum distributor, a new package delivery truck in acknowledgement of its strong growth in 2011. The giveaway was part of the “Chasing the Truck” promotion, which was open to Chevron lubrication distributors in the U.S. and Canada, and was designed to award outstanding growth in sales of qualifying Delo products. Click for more

 

LUBRICANT QUALITY

PQIA Issues a CONSUMER ALERT on “SUPER STAR AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID”

December 19, 2012 – The Petroleum Quality Institute of America recently tested a brand of automatic transmission fluid (ATF) on the shelves in Michigan that it says will likely cause damage to automotive transmissions. The brand is “Super Star ATF.” PQIA says the viscosity of the product tested is more than 20% below where expected, it contains water, and has unusually high levels of silicon, potassium, sodium, aluminum, and iron, indicating that this product may contain used oil and/or antifreeze. Although the sample of Super Star ATF tested was purchased in Allen Park, MI, PQIA says this brand was observed at other locations in the state.Click for More

PQIA Says it’s Time to “Stop the Slop”

October 2, 2012 – In a Call to Action, the Petroleum Quality Institute of America (PQIA) Puts its Foot Down on Harmful Engine Oils Sold in Illinois, Michigan and Wisconsin. The Petroleum Quality Institute of America completed a tour collecting engine oils and transmission fluid samples in Illinois, Michigan and Wisconsin. Whereas the results of its testing will be published in a few weeks, PQIA says it feels a “sense of urgency to advice consumers about the proliferation of engine oils on the shelves in these states that can cause serious harm to your engine.” Click for more

Chevron Upholding Motor Oil Quality Standards

September 27, 2012 –Chevron is helping combat the widespread sale of harmful, low-quality bottled motor oils in convenience stores and bulk motor oil at quick lube facilities across the United States.  Click for more  

PQIA Issues a Don’t Buy on MaxiGuard and a Consumer Alert on Auto Club™

June 29, 2012 – The Petroleum Quality Institute of America (PQIA) issued a “Don’t Buy” on  MaxiGuard Engine oil. According to PQIA, this oil can cause damage to passenger car engines. In addition to warning consumers about the dangers of this oil to car engines, PQIA also advises retailers to be aware of the issues PQIA has found with this brand. Click for more

Silogram Lubricants Files Suit Against Everclear

March 7, 2012 – Silogram Lubricants, a New York Corporation with a manufacturing and distribution facility in Bayonne, NJ filed a $25 million breach of contract suit against Everclear of Ohio, Ltd. on March 1, 2012.Silogram alleges the 10W-30 engine oil it purchased from Everclear for resale to Silogram’s customers from late 2010 to early 2012 was defective and improper for use in automobiles. As such, it damaged passenger cars and trucks where it was intended for use and caused damage to Silogram’s business and reputation. The Silogram suit claims they were purchasing the Everclear engine oil at a rate of approximately 1 million gallons a year. Click for more

PQIA Issues Two New Consumers Alerts  

Feb 21, 2012 – The Petroleum Quality Institute of America (PQIA) posted tests results on six brands of engine oil recently tested. The results conducted on five samples meet the requirements for their labeled API Service Category and SAE viscosity grades. PQIA says, one sample, however, “raised eyebrows before the test results were even in.” That sample is for U.S. Economy Motor Oil 5-30.  Click for more

 

OTHER NEWS

Chemoil Invests in Chemlube/Sopetra

August 3, 2012 – Chemlube International of Harrison, NY, a lubricants blender and base oil distributor, announced that Chemoil Energy Ltd. through a European subsidiary, has acquired 50% interest in Chemlube International and its affiliate, Sopetra S.A. The deal includes Chemoil acquiring 50% of Chemlube International LLC for approximately USD 8.3 million cash and 50% of the shares of Sopetra S.A., for approximately USD 8.1 million cash. Click for more

CITGO Takes Issue with Trimen Oil Sales

June 4, 2012 – The Petroleum Quality Institute of America reported today that in addition to CITGO taking Mid-States Energy to court, CITGO filed a lawsuit last month against Trimen Oil Sales, Inc. (Gardena, CA). The suit alleges that Trimen had also put something other than CITGO in the drums and pails it sells with CITGO labels.Click for more

POLARIS Laboratories® Opens New Fluid Testing Lab in Moscow, Russia  

June 4, 2012 – POLARIS Laboratories®, the leading North American fluid analysis provider, also operates one of the largest networks of independent laboratories for testing technical fluids, including fuel, oil and coolant, in the United States, Canada and Central America. The company has now expanded into Russia with the opening of POLARIS Laboratories® Russia, the official representative of POLARIS Laboratories®, located in Moscow. This laboratory represents the seventh facility for POLARIS Laboratories®. Bryan Debshaw, POLARIS Laboratories’® CEO, stated, “The goal of the new Moscow laboratory is to strengthen POLARIS Laboratories’® presence in Europe and Asia.” Click for more

Baghdasarian Arrested on Federal Charges

May 22, 2012 – Federal authorities arrested Markos Baghdasarian, former president of Delfin Group USA LLC, as he was boarding a plane at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta on Saturday. The plane was bound for the United Arab Emirates. Click for more

BIS Issues Order Temporarily Denying the Delfin Group and Its President Export Privileges   

March 16, 2012 – The Bureau of Industry and Security, U.S. Department of Commerce, through its Office of Export Enforcement (OEE), issued an Order temporarily denying the Delfin Group USA LLC, and it’s president, Markos Baghdasarian , for a period of 180 days, the export privileges under the Export Administration Regulations. The Order was effective February 25, 2012.  According to the BIS Order, the OEE presented evidence that beginning in or about mid-2010, and continuing thereafter, Delfin Group USA LLC and its president, Markos Baghdasarian, conspired with multiple entities and individuals, including entities and individuals located in the United Arab Emirates (UEA) to export U.S.-origin items subject to the Regulations from the United States to Iran, via transshipment through the UAE, without obtaining the required authorization from the U.S. Government. Click for more

 

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