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Chevron – First to Move Prices… Down
December 19, 2014
To answer a question many have been asking for the past month or two… with the price of crude dropping like a rock, why have non of the majors announced a price decrease for finished lubricants?
Good question… and a breaking news answer.
Today, Chevron announced a general posted price decrease for our lubricants, gear oils and greases by up to 3.5% for most SKU’s.
Chevron is announcing a general posted price decrease for our lubricants, gear oils and greases by up to 3.5% for most SKU’s. This will be effective in the U.S. Marketer channel effective February 6, 2015.
Shell Lubricants Americas Challenges Distributors,Celebrates Top Performers with Travel Award
December 19, 2014
Shell Lubricants North America started the year with the goal of accelerating growth in the synthetics market and just ended it in Miami with 50 of its top performing distributors. Shell and its distributors were able to take a joint victory lap – celebrating double-digit synthetics growth.
“We have always valued the role our distributor network plays in selling and delivering our products throughout North America,” said Darren Cross, Shell Lubricants Americas Indirect/Wholesale team lead. “This year, their performance was as critical as ever as we pursued synthetics market growth through our brands includingShell Rotella®, Quaker State® and Pennzoil Platinum® Full Synthetic motor oils with PurePlus™ Technology.”
Shell Lubricants encouraged its distributors to participate in the “2014 Shell Distributor Challenge Travel Award,” the success of which relied on business performance as well as various behavioral improvements. These included pipeline and target setting, implementation of Shell national and local promotions, building and executing effective marketing plans and training staff to fully understand and communicate about Shell Lubricants products. The outcome was a win-win experience in which distributors applied best practices to grow their businesses and Shell significantly increased synthetics sales.
2014 Shell Distributor Challenge Travel Award Winners
Quality Petroleum (grand prize winner)- Filgo Lubricants
- Keller-Heartt
- Evco Petroleum
- Merle Boes
- Dennison Lubricants
- PPC Lubricants
- Taylor Enterprises
- O’Rourke Petroleum
- Bluewave Energy
- Midtex Oil
- Van de Pol Enterprises
In late November, 50 top-performing Shell distributor principals, sales managers, sales representatives and their guests attended the 2014 Shell Distributor Challenge Travel Award event in Miami, along with the top three Shell Lubricants Americas indirect channel account managers, Shell leaders and their spouses. The trip included three nights at the Hilton Bentley Miami/South Beach, a customer reception, dinner cruise and activities like golf and a Miami food tour.
The highlight of the trip was attending the final race of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at the Homestead-Miami Speedway. Guests had the opportunity to tour the pit and garage areas, as well as watch the race from infield cabanas as Penske driver Joey Logano drove the No. 22 Shell-Pennzoil Ford Fusion to a fourth place series finish. The logo of Distributor Challenge grand prize winner, Quality Petroleum, was featured on the deck lid of the No. 22 car. Quality Petroleum president Sam Edmondson and his spouse, Vera, had the “Best Seat in the House” during the race and won the grand prize trip for two to Belgium to be Shell VIP guests at the 2015 Formula 1 Shell Belgium Grand Prix.
NASCAR inspired the Distributor Challenge
Rusty Barron, Shell Lubricants General Manager, North America Marketing and Operations, said Shell changed the Distributor Challenge in 2014 to create excitement, visibility and clear expectations of what it takes to win. At the recognition celebration, he explained the NASCAR inspiration behind the changes.
“When the NASCAR races were only based on race points, the races lacked the excitement of drivers pushing the limits of the car and themselves to win,” Barron said. “This year, they defined that NASCAR is about winning and changed the rules to bring back that behavior-that drive to win. So throughout the season, every driver who won a race advanced into the Chase for the Championship.”
Barron went on to explain that Shell defined the behaviors that drive marketplace success and built them into the Challenge. “Like NASCAR drivers, Challenge distributors must continue to outperform others within their region every quarter. Ultimately, we get down to the top 12 best in class distributors representing our brands in the marketplace, and were fortunate to celebrate their successes in Miami.”
Jim Kohsel of winning distributor Merle Boes, Inc. said the changes Shell desired had the intended impact on his business. “The trip was a great reward, but the driver for me was implementing the best practices. They’re practices you know you should do in your business, but sometimes you lose focus when you’re busy day-to-day. They made us focus on the things that would make us efficient and profitable,” Kohsel pointed out.
WESTERN MARKETING RECEIVES HIGHEST CHEVRON LUBRICANT RECOGNITION THREE YEARS RUNNING!
December 2, 2014
Western Marketing Inc. (WMI) receives Chevron’s highest honor for distributors of its lubricants-the 2014 Eagle Award-for the third consecutive year.
Each year Chevron honors its top-performing 1st Source Lubrication Marketer with the celebrated Eagle Award. Western Marketing has been awarded this “best-of-the-best” recognition for the third year in a row, an unprecedented feat during the award’s long-standing history.
This achievement is based upon the highest Recognition Score for 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 ongoing commitment to technical/product training and customer service excellence in the delivery, and use, of Chevron lubricants. 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 this month in Orlando, FL where more than 500 representatives of their top-performing distributors were present.
Mike Miller, Western Marketing’s president and chief executive officer stated “WMI consistently ranks among the highest of Chevron’s marketers. Earning the Eagle Award in three consecutive years is really unprecedented! Every day our team provides practical lubrication solutions, top-notch delivery service and exceptional after-sale support, so it’s a real honor for our employees to receive this special industry recognition.”
Wayne Ederer, Chevron’s Manager-Lubrication Marketer, Sales emphasized “The fact that WMI has won three times running demonstrates the consistency of their passion and commitment to the Chevron brand. In the history of this prestigious award, I can’t recall another marketer winning it in three consecutive years.”
Western Marketing services truck fleets, gas engine oil users, agricultural, automotive repair shops, dealerships, manufacturing and wind turbine sectors. In addition to providing lubricants throughout North & 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 lubricant distributor serving seven states and recently opened its sixth sales location serving Dallas-Fort Worth. For more information visit http://www.westmktg.com.
RelaDyne Launches Online Ordering to Customers
December 2, 2014
RelaDyne, one of the nation’s leading providers of lubricants, fuel, diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), and industrial reliability services, has launched RelaDyneExpress.com, an online ordering and account management platform, to its more than 16,000 customers. The site gives customers the ability to order RelaDyne products, view account histories, and more.
“The pilot phase of RelaDyne Express began with several customers in Cincinnati and Houston. After testing thoroughly, implementing enhancements, and receiving positive feedback from pilot customers, we are very excited and ready for our December launch of RelaDyne Express,” says Jess Brown, Chief Information Officer for RelaDyne.
RelaDyneExpress enables all RelaDyne customers to easily and reliably order products from RelaDyne anytime, anywhere, from any device. “RelaDyneExpress is another value-added and industry leading tool that positions RelaDyne as a market leader,” states Larry Stoddard, President and CEO of RelaDyne. Customers can create favorites lists to easily order their frequently purchased items or browse RelaDyne’s complete product list for other related automotive, commercial, and industrial products. RelaDyneExpress is also built not just for buyers but accounting personnel as well, with easy access to order histories, invoices, and open orders.
To gain access, RelaDyne customers can go to www.RelaDyneExpress.com and click the sign up button to fill out the access form. From there, they will receive unique login information and be ready to place their first order.
“Our goal is to make RelaDyne even easier to do business with while increasing our customers’ profitability by lowering their transactional costs,” states Dan Oehler, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for RelaDyne. “RelaDyne Express creates easy ordering from customer specific Favorites lists and past orders while giving online access to all sales orders and invoices. It’s another platform that places RelaDyne further into leading edge technology for lubrication marketing and distribution.”
About RelaDyne
RelaDyne, headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, is an industry leading lubricant, fuel, and DEF distributor providing customers with integrated reliability management services for industrial and commercial businesses in the US. Four industry leaders – Mid-Town Petroleum, Inc. (Bridgeview, IL), Oil Distributing Company (Cincinnati, OH), The Hurt Company, Inc. (Houston, TX) and Pumpelly Oil Company (Sulphur, LA) – joined to form RelaDyne on Nov. 8, 2010. Now, RelaDyne’s distribution platform spans 23 locations serving 13 states in the Central US. For more information, visit www.RelaDyne.com.
American Refining Group, Inc Launches Kendex® Dust-Defense™
December 2, 2014
American Refining Group, Inc. (ARG) announces the release of new technology that reduces respirable crystalline silica as well as nuisance dust generated from sand used in oil and gas fracing operations. Kendex® Dust-Defense™, a liquid dust suppressant developed in-house by ARG chemists, increases worker protection from exposure to respirable crystalline silica along the entire supply chain.
Kendex® Dust-Defense™ has been successfully field tested in the fracing industry. There was a 90% reduction in respirable crystalline silica. Laboratory test results by an independent firm measure reductions in respirable crystalline silica below the OSHA proposed 50 μg/m 3 limit.
David Krantz, VP of Research and Development for ARG states, “As a specialty refiner we fully understand the importance of providing the safest possible work environment for our employees. We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new Kendex® Dust-Defense™ liquid dust suppressant that significantly reduces respirable crystalline silica at frac sites and sand mines. This novel, patent-pending technology is the culmination of two years of rigorous product development at pilot and commercial scale.”
In addition to increasing worker protection, coating sand with Kendex® Dust-Defense™ gives the additional benefits of adding lubricity and inherent moisture repellency to sand particles, as well as being easy to apply. The use of Kendex® Dust-Defense™ also eliminates the need for bulky vacuum systems at the frac site where space is at a premium.
“Kendex® Dust-Defense™ is one of the first of its kind and will truly change the landscape of frac sites and sand mines across the country,” said Tim Brown, Executive VP Sales and Marketing for ARG. “The assurance companies will have that their workers have increased protection from respirable crystalline silica will prove to be invaluable.”
Kendex® Dust-Defense™ is compatible with frac fluids currently being used at fracturing sites. As shown from successful laboratory and field tests, Kendex® Dust-Defense™ will not alter the features of the proppant.
“We feel confident that in addition to the visual benefits that Kendex® Dust-Defense™ will bring, we are also aiding in providing a safe environment for frac site workers. This was our number one goal as we developed this product,” according to Brown.
For more information about Kendex® Dust-Defense™ visit www.amref.com.
About American Refining Group (ARG)
American Refining Group, Inc.’s unique, privately owned facility is situated on approximately 131 acres in Bradford, Pennsylvania, the heart of McKean County and the birthplace of the U.S. domestic oil industry more than 100 years ago. The refinery has a rated capacity of 11,000 barrels per day and processes light sweet paraffinic crude. This type of crude is available domestically, and ARG purchases the majority of its crude from sources in Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York and West Virginia. We strive to supply our customers with consistent quality products and flexibility in working together to succeed and provide service that is second to none.
PetroChoice Acquires PetroLiance
November 10, 2014
PetroChoice Expands Coverage of the Midwest and Southeast with the Acquisition of PetroLiance
PetroChoice, a leading provider of lubrication solutions, announced today that it has acquired PetroLiance, headquartered in Apex, North Carolina. PetroChoice is focused on acquiring best-in-class lubricant distributors to expand both its service offering as well as its geographic footprint.
“The benefits of bringing PetroLiance and PetroChoice together as a single company are readily apparent,” said Shane O’Kelly, CEO of PetroChoice. “Our geographic markets are highly complementary; our cultures, values and missions are very much aligned and together we will have the expertise and capabilities to deliver comprehensive solutions to our customers on a scale that very few competitors can match.”
“PetroChoice and PetroLiance built their businesses through the acquisition and combination of multiple companies in response to customer demands for fewer, more capable distributors,” said Kevin McCarter, CEO of PetroLiance. “As the market begins to see the benefits of the combination, that trend will no doubt accelerate.” Shane O’Kelly added, “The industry is becoming more complex with the rapid introduction of new products. At the same time, our customers are under pressure to do more with less. Because of our technical expertise and deep knowledge of our customers’ businesses and industries, we are increasingly viewed as a valued business partner, not just a distributor.”
Shane O’Kelly will remain as CEO of PetroChoice. Kevin McCarter will serve as a consultant to the combined company until his planned retirement in 2015. Bob Crouch, COO of PetroLiance, will join PetroChoice as an Executive Vice President. With the addition of the 10 PetroLiance locations, PetroChoice now serves 20 states from a total of 27 locations.
About PetroChoice:
PetroChoice is a leading value-added provider of petroleum based lubrication products and services in the Mid-Atlantic, Midwest and Southeast. PetroChoice provides its customers with Lubrication Solutions to meet their Safety, Savings and Sustainability goals. PetroChoice distributes an extensive product offering of lubricants, coolants, metalworking fluids, equipment, heaters, lifts, auto-lube and filtration systems, and contamination control devices backed by unmatched technical expertise and services. PetroChoice is owned by Greenbriar Equity Group LLC located in Rye, NY. For more information about PetroChoice visit www.petrochoice.com.
About PetroLiance:
PetroLiance is a leading distributor of petroleum products in Florida, Illinois, North Carolina, Georgia, Ohio and South Carolina. The company provides a broad range of lubricants, metalworking fluids, fuel products and programs and related equipment for the industrial, commercial and passenger vehicle segments. PetroLiance was owned by MSouth Equity Partners located in Atlanta, GA.
Related Stories:
- Oct. 6, 2014
- PetroChoice Opens New Distribution Center
- Oct 1, 2014
- PetroChoice Acquires LubriCorp
American Refining Group, D-A Lubricant reach agreement on Brad Penn® Lubricants brand
October 30, 2014
Two companies with long histories in the oil industry have reached an agreement to leverage their strengths.
American Refining Group Inc. (ARG) has agreed in principle to sell the Brad Penn®Lubricants brand to D-A Lubricant Company Inc. The companies also have reached a blending and packaging agreement in which ARG will continue to blend and package most of the Brad Penn® Lubricants at the Bradford, Pa. facility. D-A will continue to serve the Brad Penn® distributor network with its lubricant products. Brad Penn® distributors will receive the same level of service they have experienced with ARG from D-A Lubricant.
“This agreement enables ARG to focus on what it does best, refining quality base oils and the blending and packaging of lubricants,” said Jeannine Schoenecker, president and chief operating officer of ARG. “The blending and packaging agreement also contributes to our long-term strategic plan to internally blend a large majority of the base oils we produce in our refining process.”
“This is a great opportunity for not only ARG and D-A, but for Brad Penn® and its distributors. This really is about commitment, growth and opportunity. By bringing together our collective capabilities, the Brad Penn® Lubricants brand is well positioned to build on its solid foundation,” stated Tim Brown, ARG’s executive vice president and chief strategy officer.
“Combining D-A’s nationwide salesforce with a respected and well-known brand such as Brad Penn® Lubricants is a natural fit,” said Michael Protogere, D-A Lubricant’s chief executive officer. “We gain access to ARG’s refining capabilities and Brad Penn® has the benefit of our distribution network and 35-person sales force.”
“It is D-A’s intention to further the market share of the Brad Penn® Lubricants product line including its Penn Grade 1®High Performance Oils,” said Gisela Miller, D-A’s president and CFO. “The synergy between D-A and Brad Penn®advances both brands for much anticipated market penetration throughout North America and beyond. It is a fantastic addition to the D-A family and we are excited to have everyone on board.”
The transition is expected to be complete by Dec. 31, 2014.
ABOUT ARG
American Refining Group Inc. is a privately owned oil refinery in Bradford, Pa. Founded in 1881 at the beginning of the domestic oil boom, the Bradford refinery currently processes, light, sweet paraffinic crude; it is the oldest continuously operating lube oil refinery in North America.
Founded in 1919, D-A Lubricant Co. supplies lubricants to the heavy duty, automotive, industrial and original equipment manufacturer markets. D-A has distribution facilities in six states and ships lubrication products globally. The company is headquartered in Lebanon, Ind., in a state-of-the art, 250,000 square foot facility with manufacturing and packaging capabilities.
PetroChoice Opens New Distribution Center
October 6, 2014
PetroChoice Expands their Service Capabilities with a New Distribution Center in Bridgeport, OH
PetroChoice, a leading provider of lubrication solutions, announced today that it has opened a 19,000 square foot distribution center in Bridgeport, OH. The opening of this facility will allow them to better serve Western PA, Eastern Ohio and West Virginia. Not only will they be able to provide for the Pittsburgh market and surrounding boroughs, but they will widely enhance their service to the Marcellus Shale and Utica regions which encompass some of the worlds largest natural gas finds. Charlie Leonard, Vice President of Sales added, “This new facility will enable PetroChoice to not only better serve our existing Marcellus and Utica shale customers, but also to expand our offering in to new geographies.”
Bob Mills, President of the Mid Atlantic said, “We are excited to have a place to call home that will allow us to offer the Pittsburgh Metropolitan area unparalleled sales, service and distribution capabilities. This goes hand in hand with our continued commitment to provide value and to strengthen our relationships.”
About PetroChoice:
PetroChoice is a leading value-added provider of petroleum based lubrication products and services in the Mid-Atlantic and Midwest Regions.The Company provides its customers with Lubrication Solutions to meet their Safety, Savings, and Sustainability goals. PetroChoice distributes an extensive product offering of lubricants, coolants, metalworking fluids, equipment, heaters, lifts, auto-lube and filtration systems, and contamination control devices backed by unmatched technical expertise and services.
For more information about PetroChoice visit www.petrochoice.com
PetroChoice Reaches into the Southeast with the Acquisition of LubriCorp
October 1, 2014
PetroChoice, a leading provider of lubrication solutions, announced today that it has acquired LubriCorp, headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee.
PetroChoice is focused on acquiring best-in-class lubricant distributors to expand both its service offering as well as its geographic footprint.
“LubriCorp is a great company and we are proud to have them join the PetroChoice family,” said Shane O’Kelly, CEO of PetroChoice. “PetroChoice and LubriCorp share many of the same values which include our dedication to our employees, our commitment to building strong customer relationships and our unwavering focus on quality.”
Mike Foltz, the former President of LubriCorp, will continue as Vice President and General Manager of PetroChoice Tennessee. “PetroChoice is a great fit for us. I have been in the lubricants industry for a long time and know many of the distributorship owners who have joined the PetroChoice team. Knowing their professionalism and how well aligned we were in mission and values brought clarity to our decision to become a part of PetroChoice.”
LubriCorp is one of the Southeast’s leading full service distributors operating facilities in Knoxville, Kingsport, and Cleveland, Tennessee. The company provides a broad range of lubricants and specialty products for the passenger vehicle, commercial, and industrial segments. Their distribution reach today covers much of the southeastern United States, including Eastern 
Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, Georgia, Alabama, West Virginia and parts of North Carolina.
“Acquiring LubriCorp is a great way to expand our growth opportunities in the Southeast and increase the overall PetroChoice footprint,” said O’Kelly. Mike Foltz added, “As part of the PetroChoice team, we believe that we can continue to grow and expand from where we are today.”
About PetroChoice:
PetroChoice is a leading value-added provider of petroleum based lubrication products and services in the Mid-Atlantic and Midwest Regions. The Company provides its customers with Lubrication Solutions to meet their Safety, Savings, and Sustainability goals. PetroChoice distributes an extensive product offering of lubricants, coolants, metalworking fluids, equipment, heaters, lifts, auto-lube and filtration systems, and contamination control devices backed by unmatched technical expertise and services.
For more information about PetroChoice visit www.petrochoice.com.
RelaDyne Acquires Turbo Filtration Corporation of Mobile, AL
August 4, 2014
RelaDyne, one of the nation’s leading providers of lubricants, fuel, diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), and industrial reliability services, announced today that it has acquired Turbo Filtration Corporation (“TFC”), a leader in the turbine and industrial reliability market.
TFC, headquartered in Mobile, Alabama, with multiple locations across the United States, performs industrial reliability services within the US and internationally. The company has become a leader in turbine and industrial cleaning, surpassing industry standards with specializations in turbine oil flushing, oil system hydroblasting, and compressor flushing, among other services.
Founder and previous owner of TFC, Mike Enger, will stay on full time with RelaDyne and work closely with Scott Hill of RelaDyne to facilitate the acquisition and continued growth and expansion of TFC within RelaDyne. “We are looking forward to joining the RelaDyne team,” says Mike Enger. “This acquisition gives us the ability to expand our services and capabilities and to continue the great work we’ve done for decades. We’ve built a great team of people over the years, and it’s important our customers know we are all sticking around.”
As TFC is integrated into RelaDyne, TFC will significantly increase RelaDyne’s services capacity in terms of both people and equipment. “This partnership with TFC firmly exemplifies our original strategy and places RelaDyne as an industry leader of industrial reliability and lubrication technology,” states Larry Stoddard, President and CEO of RelaDyne.
TFC will operate as Turbo Filtration, LLC under the direction of Scott Hill with assistance from Mike Enger. Turbo Filtration will be a division of RelaDyne’s industrial reliability services. TFC is RelaDyne’s sixth acquisition since its formation in November 2010.
About RelaDyne
RelaDyne, 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 US. Four industry leaders – Mid-Town Petroleum, Inc. (Bridgeview, IL), Oil Distributing Company (Cincinnati, OH), The Hurt Company, Inc. (Houston, TX) and Pumpelly Oil Company (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 Turbo Filtration Corporation
Turbo Filtration Corporation, located in Mobile, Alabama, has more than 50 years of combined expertise and experience in the industrial reliability market. Founded and owned by Mike Enger, TFC has become a leader in turbine and industrial cleaning, surpassing industry standards. Services include turbine oil flushing, oil system hydroblasting, cooler cleaning and retubing, compressor flushing, and other industrial services.
For more information, visit www.tfcglobal.com.
More on the PPC Acquisition of Jay Gress
June 24, 2014 (Second Edition)
JobbersWorld published a story earlier today about PPC’s acquisition of Jay Gress. We received a number of calls and e-mails from readers interested in knowing more. So here it is…
PPC Lubricants acquired the assets (excluding real estate) of Jay Gress (Gress) on Friday, May 20, 2014. The Gress acquisition is the 28thdeal PPC has done since 2000, inclusive of 4 Castrol Direct sites and 1 SOPUS Direct site.
Jay Gress was a large family owned lubricant marketer in the Southeastern Pennsylvania region. The company had been in operation since 1933 and Jay Gress II ran the business for the past 54 years. In addition to SOPUS products, Gress marketed Service Pro and Total lubricants. Gress was also in the heating oil, HVAC and Pac Pride business. PPC, however, teamed with Shipley Energy and divested of these businesses concurrently while closing on the acquisition of the Gress Lubes business.
David Klinger, President of PPC says, “The employee and customer centric philosophy Jay Gress and the culture that they created and fostered over the years fits perfectly with the philosophies and culture at PPC Lubricants. We welcome the Jay Gress employees and customers to the PPC family and we will continue to offer the highest quality products and a dedication to service to all Jay Gress customers.”
Klinger says PPC will move the majority of the Gress lubes business to PPC’s Warminster, PA facility, which is approximately 15 miles from the Gress site. And he adds, “Smaller portions of the lubes business will move to PPC’s Jonestown, PA and its Baltimore, MD facilities.” The acquisition includes PPC hiring twenty two key employees from Gress.
PPC is a 4th generation company owned by John Arnold. The company has five state-of-the art distribution facilities located in Jonestown, PA; Warminster, PA; Butler, PA; Washington, PA and Baltimore, MD. When taken together, these facilities have 2.5 million gallons in bulk storage capacity and over 300,000 sq. ft. of warehousing space.
PPC is one of the largest Castrol lubricant marketers in the country carrying PCMO, HDMO, and industrial lubricants. In addition, they had a large presence with SOPUS prior to the Gress deal. In addition to lubricants, PPC has two divisions including, PPC DEF Solutions, and PPC Natural Gas Solutions.
PPC DEF Solutions serves the growing demand for Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF). The company markets Peak Blue DEF and has over 350,000 gallons of bulk DEF storage between its 5 facilities. PPC is contracted to package for Peak Blue DEF and also solutionizes DEF from dry urea prill at its Butler, PA facility.
PPC Natural Gas Solutions serves the growing natural gas drilling, fracking, midstream and distribution companies in the PA, OH and WV markets. This division operates dedicated delivery vehicles and personnel, bulk storage and distribution of methanol and TEG, molecular sieves, amines and oil field chemicals.
PPC Acquires Jay Gress
June 24, 2014
PPC Lubricants has acquired the Lubricants division of Jay Gress, Inc. Jay Gress is a family owned and operated lubricant distributor located in Southeastern PA. The company is a heritage Shell, Pennzoil and Quaker State lubricant marketer.
David Klinger, President of PPC says “This is an exciting opportunity for PPC to solidify our position in Eastern PA, New Jersey, and the Eastern Shores of MD and Delaware. Having a larger footprint in these markets will also give us greater flexibility and logistical solutions servicing the Automotive, Commercial On and Off Road, Agriculture and Industrial markets in addition to our existing customer base while providing enhanced opportunities and resources to bring new business opportunities to PPC Lubricants.”
Phillips 66 acquires Spectrum Corporation
June 24, 2014
Phillips 66 an energy manufacturing and logistics company, has agreed to acquire Spectrum Corporation, a leading specialty lubricants company.
“The acquisition of Spectrum complements our strong-performing Lubricants business by increasing our access to specialized global lubricants markets and is in line with our strategy to selectively grow our Marketing and Specialties segment,” said Tim Taylor, president, Phillips 66. “It also creates new opportunities to expand our worldwide Lubricants customer base.”
“We are excited to join Phillips 66 and become part of their growing Lubricants business,” said Kent Farmer, chief executive officer, Spectrum. “While the ownership of Spectrum is changing, our customers can expect to receive the same outstanding service and high-quality products they’re accustomed to.”
Spectrum is an independent blender, packager and marketer of specialty lubricants including two-cycle engine oil, small engine oil and hydraulic oil. Spectrum offers a broad array of private-label and brand-name specialty lubricants and related products, including more than 500 products under 14 separate product lines.
Spectrum is headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, and is currently owned by Dominus Capital, L.P. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2014 following the receipt of regulatory approvals. Terms of the transaction are not being disclosed.
About Phillips 66
Built on more than 130 years of experience, Phillips 66 is a growing energy manufacturing and logistics company with high-performing Midstream, Chemicals, Refining, and Marketing and Specialties businesses. This integrated portfolio enables Phillips 66 to capture opportunities in a changing energy landscape. Headquartered in Houston, the company has 13,500 employees who are committed to operating excellence and safety. Phillips 66 had $51 billion of assets as of March 31, 2014. For more information, visit www.phillips66.com or follow us on Twitter @Phillips66Co.
BP Lubricants Awards Western Marketing A Full-Line Castrol Distributor Contract For Dallas-Fort Worth
June 24, 2014
BP Lubricants USA Inc., continuing an effort to expand its distributor network in the Dallas-Ft. Worth, TX market, has awarded a non-exclusive distributor agreement for all of its packaged and bulk lubricants to Western Marketing, Inc. This agreement makes Western Marketing the only full-line Castrol distributor in the market. The expansion of the relationship between Castrol’s automotive, industrial and heavy-duty lubricants provides Western Marketing with the opportunity to ensure its existing and new customers can maximize vehicle and equipment operations with a highly-recognized, premium lubricant line.
What was a simple delivery arrangement servicing BP’s Exploration business in West Texas led to Western Marketing becoming a contracted distributor in early 2013. Since then, Western Marketing has represented the Castrol brand inNorth Texas, Oklahoma and parts of New Mexico,Colorado, Kansas, Arkansas and Louisiana. “We’ve enjoyed the relationship with Castrol and look forward to entering the next phase of our growth journey with this world-class partner,” said Michael Miller, CEO of Western Marketing.
“Expanding our geographic footprint not only strengthens our existing Castrol relationship but it also allows the Western Marketing team to better serve automotive and fleet customers located between our Abileneand Longview, Texas facilities,” said Miller. “And the addition of the Castrol Industrial product line strengthens our ability to service other market segments — especially wind turbine farms, machine shops and manufacturing plants. Castrol has been excellent to work with and we see more benefits to come from a long and successful association with BP Lubricants USA.”
Bob Aenchbacher, BP Lubricants General Manager – U.S. Distributor Sales, added: “This is a natural evolution of our trade partnership and significantly expands the Castrol brand’s presence and availability in a strategic market for BP Lubricants USA. Western Marketing is dedicated to providing both value-added service and top quality products to their customers. With their strength in customer service and lubricants handling, this expansion allows us both to serve the Castrol customers across the DFW Metroplex.”
About Western Marketing, Inc.:
Western Marketing Inc. is a leading, multi-branded distributor of lubricants including heavy-duty and passenger car motor oils, specialized industrial lubricants and natural gas engine oils. For more information about the Castrol products and services provided contact them at 1-800-588-4662, visit http://www.westmktg.com or e-mail Info@westmktg.com.
Happy Father’s Day
June 13, 2014
A Father’s Day Tribute to the Dads and Granddads in the lubricants business.
JobbersWorld published a special edition on June 11, 2014 asking our readers to shine a light on their Dads and Granddads with pictures and memories about those that had an impact on our lives and the lubricant’s business.
Some of what we learned is said in the tributes below. Tributes that speak volumes about the impact fathers, mothers, aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters, and others have on our lives. Tributes that too often go unsaid. With that…
Happy Father’s Day.
Wendy Warren-Spell
Christian and Greyson Spell
Warren Oil Company’s owner had a vision; I know because he is my father.
My father, Irvin Warren, worked hard day and night. I watched and worked beside him every summer and after school. He taught me the company and the oil industry. Nothing was ever easy for him, or us.
My father always told me you cannot know a company unless you start from the beginning and that’s where he started me.
I still have dreams of putting the old paper cans on the line by hand at age 7. At that time, it seemed the only thing I was learning was torture. But I was wrong, because he was teaching me more, much more!
An early part of what I was learning came a few months later when I was with my father in a line at Red & White grocery store. There was a man standing in front of us with two cans of our oil. My father tapped him on the shoulder and asked him about the product. He told him that I helped put the cans on the line. The man thanked us for helping him save money.
That was my first memory of being proud of hard work and how proud I was to have a father that wanted to help people save money.
Through the years, my father has shown my family that hard work and giving back to your community is what life is about and the way you grow.
My father never forgets his roots as the son of a farmer and the community that he came from. He still loves to ride tractors with his grandsons and talk to people in stores that are looking at his products or buying them. Family, passion and love created Warren Oil Company but it took my father to bring them all together and teach me what it means.
We love you dad and granddaddy!
Jeff Hart
EVP – Business Development
RelaDyne, LLC
Dear Dad…
I wanted to wish you a happy father’s day and thank you for being such an incredible role model to myself and so many others.
So let me tell you the short version of the story…
Ray Battersby is my father-in-law… but I proudly consider and call him my Dad. Ray grew up in Chicago as an Orphan, raised by Catholic priests and nuns. At age 18 he went on to the Navy and served in WW2. Back to Chicago post war, Ray needed a job and ended up working for Sinclair Oil delivering home heating oil. A couple years later, Sinclair made their drivers owner operators and Ray had an idea… Deliver for Sinclair during the day and at night crawl into the new homes being built in Chicago and put a sticker on the oil tank so they know who to call when they needed oil.
Well it worked.
In 1954 Mid-Town Petroleum was formed and Ray ran a great fuel and lubricants business for many years. His son, Bill Battersby, ran the business through the 80s and 90s and Ray continued to work there. I had the privilege of running the business from 2002-2010 and Ray continued to work there. In 2010, we sold the business and became one of the founding companies of RelaDyne (www.reladyne.com) and today Ray continues to work there as a valuable employee doing building, pump and truck maintenance as well as anything he is asked to do. Ray has been part of this great company and great industry for over 60 years. He celebrated his 88 birthday last month at work (picture).
So Dad, I have to say that you have taught me more about business than anyone else. More importantly, you showed me what determination, loyalty and integrity mean from a man that displays it every day in everything he does. Thank you for being such a great Dad, thank you for teaching me the business and thank you for showing me what it takes to be a great man.
Happy Father’s Day!
Love, Jeff
Bob Stolz
Chevron, GM North America Sales
My father always taught me to see the “good” in everyone. Never does he share a negative judgment. As a result he always builds enduring relationships with family members, co-workers, and his volunteer organization members. He continues an optimistic view of life and even enjoys a 60mph jet ski ride at the age of 92 from time-to-time.
Happy Father’s Day!
Meg Fenderson
Director of Management Information Services
GH Berlin Windward
We’re so grateful for our Dad (and Mom) and what they taught us in life and in business. By example, they taught us to work hard, to be motivated, innovative, enthusiastic and genuine. Dad taught us to take care of the customer and the customer will take care of you, while Mom taught us that cash is king. A winning combination, wouldn’t you say?
Though they no longer have to report for duty at the office every day, our parents continue to show us the way by embracing life, being active in their community and spending time with family.
Happy Father’s Day!
Pictured above:
Captain G. David Fenderson USNR Ret.
President, Maine Lubrication Service
District Sales Manager, Texaco
Lindsay Baker Hegna,
Vice President Sales & Marketing, CAM2 International
I was writing my dad’s Father’s Day card when I received the Happy Father’s Day edition of JobbersWorld… it struck a chord with me.
My dad (Jack Baker) has been in the lubricant business for 40 years, first with Sun Oil selling CAM2 and then helped start CAM2 when the brand was purchased from Sun Oil in 1984. I was 4 years old at that time (please don’t do the math). Back then, my dad ran CAM2 out of our basement and my sisters and I often helped pack sample cases of oil in our garage. That’s us in the picture below; I am the little sister in the back, and more recently, standing with my dad.
Thanks to my dad, I learned not only the value of hard work, but how that hard work and dedication could pay off and grow a business to where CAM2 is today. I am honored each and every day that I get to work at CAM2 alongside my dad. I value the extra time I get to spend with him, but also the knowledge and lessons that I learn from him every day. My dad often quips that his father would always say to him “you can’t go to bed at night unless you learn at least one thing each day” – I am always pleased each day that I learn something from him and I know that my grandpa would be proud of him as well. I feel tremendously blessed each day to be a part of CAM2 and what my dad has built. I work tirelessly every day to put into practice the lessons and values my dad has taught me to help CAM2 be successful.
Happy Father’s Day.
Happy Father’s Day
June 11, 2014
Happy Father’s Day
By Thomas F. Glenn
Having been in the lubricants business for over 33 years, you can be sure there are days when I sit back and reflect on the past. In those times, I often think back at the start of my career as a data analyst with a used oil analysis laboratory. Those were the early days when there was a lot to learn, and the learning didn’t stop there. Instead, it continued for me as a sales rep for a lubricant distributor and then selling for a major oil company. That was followed by many years as a consultant and now… still learning as publisher of JobbersWorld.
But in all that time and all those days, I think the most learned, meaningful, and treasured lessons about the business, came from my grandfather.
My grandfather was a senior executive with close to 50 years of dedicated service to Texaco. The lessons he taught me started when I came down the stairs in pajamas at Christmas and found a Texaco tanker under the tree and hearing him sing from time-to-time “You can trust your car to the man who wears the star.” He was dedicated. And it didn’t stop there. The oil business was a large part of his life and my family’s while growing up.
But something else I had the pleasure to learn about this business over the years didn’t come from my grandfather. Instead, it came from what I have learned listening to stories about your fathers and grandfathers and the impact they have had on your lives and businesses. These stories have also been true treasures.
So with father’s day just around the corner, shine a light on your dad and/or granddad. Send JobbersWorld a picture or two with a few words about what’s important to you about the impact they have had on your life and business. JobbersWorld will publish these pictures and thoughts in our special Father’s Day Edition on Friday.
P.S. My grandfather is the forth person from the left in the front row. Send us a picture of those who helped shape your life and lubricants business.
If you read this far and want to see more of some of the Golden Years at Texaco in New England…. Click here.
J.A.M. Distributing Company to Acquire Jones Oil and High Tech Equipment
June 11, 2014
J.A.M. to Grow Footprint in Houston
J.A.M. Distributing Company (“J.A.M.”), a portfolio company of Ridgemont Equity Partners, today announced that a newly formed affiliate has signed a definitive agreement to acquire substantially all of the assets of Jones Oil, Inc. (“Jones Oil”) and J.B. Jones Enterprises, Inc. d/b/a High-Tech Equipment (“High Tech”).
Based in Houston, Jones Oil is a marketer and distributor of lubricants, fuel, and ancillary products to automotive shops, industrial facilities, and private and commercial vehicle fleets. Jones Oil has been family-owned and operated since 1933. Also based in Houston, High Tech is a provider of equipment for automotive shops, fleet maintenance, and the commercial industrial market. The proposed transaction is subject to certain closing conditions and the parties expect the closing to occur within 120 days of the execution of the definitive agreement. The financial terms of the proposed transaction were not disclosed.
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. For over forty years, the Company has been a respected distributor of ExxonMobil lubricants.
“J.A.M. has a long history of growth through a focus on customer service excellence, quality products, and long term partnerships,” said Jeff Kramer, President and CEO of J.A.M. “We are excited to find companies such as Jones Oil and High Tech which share those values. The addition of their capabilities continues our journey on delivering against our commitment to being ‘The Premier Partner for Smart Lubricant and Fuel Solutions.'”
“I am pleased to transition my businesses to such a well-respected company and management team,” said J.B. Jones, CEO and owner of Jones Oil and High Tech. “I have no doubt that J.A.M. will continue to fully support my customers and continue Jones Oil and High Tech’s legacies as leaders in quality, safety, and top notch customer service.”
“J.B. Jones and his family have built a terrific pair of businesses, and we are excited to welcome the Jones Oil and High Tech teams into the J.A.M. family,” said Jack Purcell, Partner at Ridgemont Equity Partners. “This is an important step in J.A.M.’s history with Ridgemont as we continue to seek attractive organic and acquisition growth opportunities in and around the markets we serve,” added Tim Dillon, Vice President at Ridgemont Equity Partners.
CLICK for JobbersWorld Q&A with Jeff Kramer
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. For over forty years, the Company has been a respected distributor of ExxonMobil lubricants. In December 2012, J.A.M. was acquired by Ridgemont Equity Partners, a Charlotte-based investor. www.jamdistributing.com.
About Ridgemont Equity Partners
Ridgemont Equity Partners is a Charlotte-based private equity firm that specializes in middle market buyout and growth equity investments. 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 $100 million in industries in which it has deep expertise, including basic industries and services, energy, healthcare, and telecommunications/media/technology. www.ridgemontep.com.
Chevron Announces Price Increase
May 23, 2014
Shell was the first to bump its lubricant prices up in 2014. It did so on March 31 when it announced a price increase of 4% taking effect on May 5, 2014. Other majors and independent blenders were quick to follow with similar price increase announcements, most of which take effect in June.
There was, however, one apparent holdout that everyone seemed to be asking about, and that was Chevron. Well ask no more.
Chevron has now announced that it too will be increasing the price of its lubricants. This will be a general price increase of 4% to be effective July 15, 2014.
A summary of announced price increases follows:
Mansfield and Lube-Tech Acquire Yocum Oil
May 23, 2014
Mansfield Energy Corporation and Lubrication Technologies, Incorporated announced they have acquired the commercial fuels, lubricants, and solutions businesses of Yocum Oil.
The acquisition was a coordinated effort between Mansfield and Lube-Tech with the commercial fuels business purchased by Mansfield and the lubricants and solutions business purchased by Lube-Tech. Lube-Tech will also provide fuel transportation and equipment service to Yocum Oil’s fuel customers. Yocum’s industry-leading fuel sales and marketing team, led by Tony Yocum, will join Mansfield, where Tony will serve as Director of Business Development. Tim Yocum will join Lube-Tech’s board of directors, and Jon Yocum joins Lube-Tech as a Senior IT Project Manager.
Tim Yocum, CEO of Yocum Oil, commented, “We are excited to integrate our strengths with Mansfield’s and Lube-Tech’s excellence in automation, processes, and market leadership. This combination will fully integrate our companies with a more extensive and successful network and allow us to better serve our customers through an enhanced product offering and higher levels of service.” Yocum Oil’s fuel business fits seamlessly into Mansfield’s current fuel supply chain, and the integration into Mansfield’s comprehensive fuel service, supply, and distribution network will enable them to broaden their service offering on a regional and national basis. “Our Great Lakes operation has been growing rapidly for the past five years and this was a great opportunity to accelerate that growth,” said Joe Campbell, Mansfield SVP of Operations.
“From their Arsenal line of fuel additives to their innovative risk management and hedging programs, Yocum has long been a leader in the Minnesota fuels market. As importantly, the Yocum family and employees have long demonstrated the values, culture, and commitment to customer service that we know are required for sustainable success, and that provide a foundation for further business and professional growth,” stated Michael Mansfield, CEO of Mansfield Energy Corp.
Combining Yocum Oil’s lubricants and solutions businesses with Lube-Tech will result in an expanded product portfolio and a larger geographic footprint. Already a distributor of Mobil, Chevron, and CAT lubricants, Lube-Tech will continue to provide the same high-quality products and services that customers have come to expect. In addition, Lube-Tech will support Yocum Oil customers with custom-blended lubricants, chemicals, and recycling and equipment services.
Eric Jackson, Lube-Tech COO said “We are excited to add further scale to our market-leading lubricants business and believe operating our fuel transportation assets in conjunction with Mansfield’s national supply and marketing system will enable us to deliver increased customer value”
Chris Bame, CEO of Lube-Tech, commented, “We have tremendous respect for the Yocum family and how it has built its business by fostering an employee- and customer-centric culture. Like Yocum Oil, Lube-Tech is a family-owned company, and we share that same philosophy. At Lube-Tech, our mission is to continually help our customers accelerate performance while also enhancing our community and the lives of our employees.”
More Lubricant Price Increases
May 5, 2014
Add Phillips 66, Valvoline, and Castrol to the list of majors announcing lubricant price increases.
In addition to JobbersWorld’s previous news about Shell and ExxonMobil bumping up lubricant prices, Valvoline, Phillips 66, and Castrol announced last week that they will be increasing the cost of bulk and packaged lubricants by up to 4%. These increases are effective June 6, 2014. A summary of announced lubricant price increases is shown below:
CAM2 International purchases Vicksburg, MS Plant Which Will Become its Corporate Headquarters and Flagship Blending & Packaging Facility
May 5, 2014
CAM2 International, L.L.C. announced today the company has acquired an existing lubricant blending and packaging facility located in Vicksburg, MS.
CAM2 International, LLC announce the acquisition of a new facility strategically located in Vicksburg, Mississippi that will become CAM2’s new corporate headquarters and serve as CAM2’s Southern US blending and packaging operation. This modern and efficient 93,000 SF facility is situated on 19 acres and has access to the Mississippi river for receiving and shipping via marine barge, rail or truck. The site features a full-line manufacturing plant with a single shift operating capacity of over 100 million gallons annually, a modern and efficient warehouse and distribution facility, and state of the art testing and packaging operation.
CAM2 says it is excited by the acquisition of this outstanding facility in Vicksburg, MS because it will not only strengthen the distribution of its premier brand CAM2, but also allows the company to surpass the needs of its private label customers. They say this acquisition will allow all of its operations to be contained within one facility which will enhance the effectiveness and productivity of CAM2’s operations and improve the service levels it provides to its customers.
“After careful consideration, our team concluded that the City of Vicksburg and its Port facilities were a perfect fit for a growing CAM2, providing us with low cost freight access to the nearby sources of many of our raw materials along with the availability of this outstanding and existing facility. The location in Vicksburg aligns perfectly with our passion to become the most reliable lubricant supplier in the world,” said President Walter Tyson
“This year marks the 45th anniversary of the development of CAM2 and moving into this stellar facility will provide CAM2 with an even stronger foundation to fulfill our vision of providing our customers with quality products at competitive prices and strengthen our foothold through the United States,” added Jack Baker, CEO.
The company says this project represents a significant capital investment by CAM2, will create numerous jobs in the first year of operations for the Vicksburg, MS area and will allow CAM2 to better service its existing and future customers.
EDITORIAL NOTE: The plant CAM2 acquired in Vicksburg was purchased from Shell and it was formerly a Pennzoil Facility.
About CAM2 International, LLC:
CAM2 International, LLC is an industry-leading national manufacturer of high quality lubricant products. Its nationally recognized brand, CAM2, was established in 1975 and originally introduced as a premiere racing oil that was the first multi-viscosity oil to win the Indy 500. Today the CAM2 brand has grown to be the top independent brand of motor oil with a complete product line of over 275 SKUs and an international distributor network of over 900 distributors. The company built a national footprint that stretches from coast-to-coast and a global footprint that includes over 22 countries.
Another Price Increase – First it was Shell, and now it’s ExMo
April 25, 2014
As reported in the April 1, 2014 issue of JobbersWorld,Shell Oil Products US (SOPUS) announced a general price increase on lubricants of up to 4%. The increase is effective May 5, 2014 and is said to be due in part to increasing costs of raw materials used in the production and delivery of its products.
Well Shell is not alone.
ExxonMobil announced today that it will increase its branded and unbranded lubricant and grease prices by up to 4%. The increase is effective June 5, 2014.
Whereas ExxonMobil is said to attribute the increase primarily to recent increases in base stock prices, it’s clear lubricant blenders are also feeling cost pressure from this months announced price increases for lubricant additives.
Although infrequent in comparison to price increases pushed through for base stocks, several of the leading additive companies advised their customers this month of a price increase. With both the price of base stocks and additives going up, it’s likely we will be hearing more about finished lubricant price increases in the very near future.
Pennzoil is Making a Splash with Pennzoil Platinum and Utra Platinum with PurePlus Technology
April 22, 2014
When surfing channels this past weekend I had to stop at a new commercial showcasing Pennzoil’s new PurePlus Technology; it was different. The ad sent the message that Pennzoil Platinum and Ultra Platinum motor oils are now made with PurePlus technology. Instead of motor oils refined from crude oil, the ad makes it clear that Pennzoil Platinum and Ultra Platinum synthetic motor oils are born from base oils that come from clean natural gas. And that motor oils made with this technology represent the next generation in performance.
So here we are; gas-to-liquid base oils have finally, officially, and as many anticipated, entered the US market in the bottles of a brand leader. It will be interesting to see how the competition responds to some of the claims.
Check out Pennzoil’s PurePlus webpage for more and to see how Pennzoil says Pennzoil Platinum and Ultra Platinum motor oils with PurePlus technology stack up against the competition.
Chevron Introduces the “PitPack” Easy-Dispense Motor Oil System
April 22, 2014
Chevron Products Company, a Chevron U.S.A. Inc. division, maker of the Havoline® brand of advanced engine oils, today introduced its new Chevron PitPack easy-dispense motor oil system. The unique packaging and delivery system helps professional motor oil installers more efficiently store and deliver oil to customer vehicles.
The PitPack system can reduce landfill waste by up to 89 percent by using 6-gallon plastic bags and recyclable corrugate boxes of motor oil rather than individual plastic quart bottles. This package can reduce a car’s time needed in a service bay by dispensing motor oil quickly from the boxes via a high-flow, no drip tap. Chevron’s PitPack rack also has a unique shelf design to keep fluid spills from reaching the floor and allows for easy clean up in fast-paced shop environments.
The up-right PitPack rack system takes up approximately half the space of the equivalent volume of quart cases, allowing businesses to provide the broad range of Havoline®, Delo® and Supreme products. It is a bulk-type alternative for locations where adding another tank is not viable and space for a 55-gallon drum is not available. This solution helps professional installers manage the complexity associated with the growing number of premium products (synthetics, synthetic blends, and high mileage).
Port Consolidated Inc., a Chevron 1st Source Elite Lubrication Marketer, has already seen the benefits of the PitPack system. According to Michael Griffith, vice president for the company, “The PitPack system is a win for Port Consolidated, a win for our installers, and a win for the consumers. As a distributor, we benefit from an increased ability to penetrate accounts with specialty lubricants and a reduction in delivery frequency as opposed to typical case goods. Our installers benefit from better inventory control, lower cost of goods, and faster turn times. Additionally, the end users like the fact that they are doing their part to help the environment by doing business with a facility that reduces waste.”
Dave Schletewitz, Havoline North America Brand Manager at Chevron, added, “The PitPack system can deliver significant operational efficiencies, at a lower cost than dealing with quart packages, all with strong environmental benefits. This 8-box rack system significantly reduces plastic waste by holding the equivalent of 192 plastic quart bottles in its 100% recyclable corrugate boxes. It’s a win-win for businesses looking to improve profits, efficiency and their environmental stewardship – and a win for consumers who want to spend their dollars with businesses that are committed to reducing waste in their community.”
There will be 20 motor oil products available across the Havoline®, Delo®and Supreme brands, and product orders can be made through the regular channels.
For more information on the PitPack™ easy-dispense motor oil system, go to: www.ChevronLubricants.com/PitPack
CAM2 Inks Deal with ENI USA, R&M
April 8, 2014
CAM2 and eni, the world’s 7th largest integrated energy company, join forces to expand the distribution and availability of eni’s high performance motor oils, marine oils and other lubricants in the United States.
Effective March 15, 2014 CAM2, International and ENI USA, R&M Co. Inc. signed an agreement appointing CAM2 as eni’s national marketer for eni and AGIP branded products for the continental US.
CAM2 will use its extensive network of distributors located across the US to expand the availability of eni’s superior performance products that have a long established relationship with Europe’s premier automobile manufacturers. For this reason eni’s motor oils are officially approved against the specifications of manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes Benz, Porsche, Volkswagen and many others.
Both companies strongly believe this agreement will benefit European Automobile dealerships located across the US and their customers needing easy access to products designed, officially OEM approved and manufactured to meet the high performance requirements of their automobiles. In addition, CAM2 believes there is a large appetite for many of eni’s other products to include marine and high performance motorcycle oils.
CAM2 is proud to have been chosen to represent eni’s premier line of products in the US and to be associated with a quality organization such as eni, ranked among the top integrated energy companies in the world. We at CAM2 believe eni and its fine lineup of quality products fits in with and compliments CAM2’s premium quality line of products and that both of our companies’ commitment to provide our customers with unsurpassed service and quality products that meet and exceed their needs and expectations every time they are used are perfectly aligned.
About CAM2
CAM2 International, LLC manufactures and markets a complete line of world class lubricants through an outstanding group of distributors both across the United States and internationally. CAM2 International is the largest independent bulk lubricant supplier in the United States and offers an extensive line of premium lubricants in all package sizes.
About Eni USA R&M
Eni USA R&M (formerly American AGIP) is a subsidiary of Eni S.p.A., which is the seventh largest integrated multinational oil and gas company headquartered in Italy and 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.
Eni USA R&M has 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, motorcycle and marine market sections. Especially eni full synthetic engine oils with OEM specifications (eni i-Sint product line) are worldwide best sellers and strong weapons to penetrate the North American market
Source: CAM2
Shell Announces Price Increase
April 1, 2014
Shell Oil Products US (SOPUS) announced a general price increase on lubricants of up to 4%. The increase is effective May 5, 2014 and is said to be due in part to increasing costs of raw materials used in the production and delivery of its products.
Two Leading Lubricant Marketers Sign up to Support the Petroleum Quality Institute of America
April 1, 2014
The Petroleum Quality Institute of America (PQIA), announced two new supporters signed on to help PQIA assure the quality and integrity of lubricants in the US market.
They include:
L.F. Powers Co, Inc., headquartered in Waterbury, CT. Founded in 1931, L.F. Powers has remained a family owned and operated business. The company is committed to servicing its customers with high quality Mobil products since 1951, and Warren Oil products since 2003. Click for more
Ocean State Oil and its sister company, Domestic Fuels and Lubes. Ocean State Oil is the only 1st Source Elite Distributor for Chevron Lubricants in New England. The company is part of the Santoro Family of Companies which also operates Domestic Fuels and Lubes, a leading distributor of diesel fuels and gasoline and is a Chevron 1st Source Elite lubricant distributor servicing Southeast Virginia and Northeast North Carolina. Click for more
ABOUT PQIA
PQIA’s mission is to serve the consumer of lubricants by testing and reporting on the quality and integrity of lubricants in the marketplace. It is expected that this improved visibility of quality will lead to wider conformance by lubricant manufacturers to specification and performance claims. PQIA supporters include Afton, Chevron, CHS Industries, CITGO, Eni USA R&M Co., Gulf Lubricants, Phillips 66, Lubrizol, Infineum, Lubricating Specialties Co., Pinnacle Oil, Universal Lubricants, Warren Distribution, Warren Oil, Safety-Kleen, Chemlube, G.H. Berlin Lubricants, Circle Lubricants, Leahy-Wolf, Ocean State Oil and Domestic Fuels and Lubes, and L.F. Powers. Click for more on PQIA
PQIA Issues a DON’T BUY on Orbit Motor Oil and ATF
March 20, 2014
The Petroleum Quality Institute of America (PQIA) reports on a fraudulent brand of “Motor Oil” on retail shelves in Missouri and Indiana, and likely available elsewhere throughout the Midwest, that is capable of destroying your car engine in short order. The brand is Orbit and it’s manufactured by Orbit Oil in Gary, Indiana.
PQIA’s analysis of the Orbit samples show the products are extremely thin, as much as 74% below the minimum viscosity requirements for their implied viscosity grade. Motor oils this thin are not able to adequately separate and lubricate moving engine parts and can lead to rapid wear and even engine seizure. In addition, the samples tested lack the critical additives needed to protect car engines from wear, sludge, rust and corrosion, and may contain abrasive contaminates.
Accordingly, PQIA issued a “DON’T BUY” for Orbit brand motor oils.
Smitty’s Supply, Inc. Adds Two Industry Veterans to its Management Team
March 20, 2014
Smitty’s Supply, Inc. adds two industry veterans with “extensive experience in the areas of financial management and manufacturing operations” to its management team.
Smitty’s Supply, Inc., is excited to announce that Stephen D. Kelley and Robert Mancil, two well respected and experienced lubricants industry veterans, have recently joined the Smitty’s family.
Ed Smith, Owner and CEO of Smitty’s Supply, Inc. states, “With the addition of Stephen and Robert to our team, Smitty’s stands to benefit tremendously from their combined talents and experiences. Smitty’s is confident this addition to our management team ensures we will remain a leader in the lubricant manufacturing, packaging and marketing industry.”
Stephen D. Kelley has joined Smitty’s Supply, Inc., and will serve as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Smitty’s Supply, Inc.
After completing high school in Camden, Arkansas, Stephen earned a Bachelors of Business Administration degree in accounting in 2001 from Southern Arkansas University and later obtained his CPA license in the state of Texas.
Stephen began his career with Murphy Oil Corporation and later worked as an auditor for KPMG, LLP until he departed in 2002 to join Martin Resource Management Corporation as an accountant. Over the next 12 years, Stephen rapidly progressed through the Martin organization serving as an Accountant, the Director of Internal Audit, an Accounting Manager, the Assistant Controller, the Controller and from 2011 until his recent departure he served as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Cross Oil Refining and Marketing, Inc., a division of Martin Resource Management.
Robert G. Mancil III has joined Smitty’s Supply, Inc., and will serve as Vice President of Operations.
Robert began his career in the oil and lubricants industry in 1981 at the age of 17 with Westland Specialty Oil in Shreveport LA. After the Specialty Oil merger with Pennzoil Quaker State, Robert progressed to the engineering department gaining experience and knowledge in all aspects of lube facility management and operations. In the year 2000, Robert left Pennzoil to oversee the construction of the new Omni facility in Shreveport where he remained as Plant Manager. In 2001 Robert joined El-Paso/Coastal Unilube as a Plant Engineer until he joined the Warren Oil organization as Vice President of Operations with the responsibility for the management of 5 lubricant manufacturing facilities in 2002. In August of 2005, Robert accepted the position of Vice President of Operations of the Packaging, Plastics and Grease Divisions of Martin Lubricants where he remained until he joined the Smitty’s organization.
Ed Smith states, “With the skill set, knowledge and experience that both Stephen and Robert have gained thus far during their impressive careers, each of them bring a heightened level of expertise that our company values. We are excited to improve and grow both the financial management and operational segments of our businesses. Smitty’s is proud to welcome these highly qualified individuals to our organization and look forward to the many positive contributions that each will surely make to our company.”
CAM2 Brings on Two New Sales Reps.
March 20, 2014
CAM2 International LLC, announced it has hired two “well respected and highly experienced sales associates as a step forward in its commitment to future growth.”
Walter Tyson, President of CAM2 says, “We at CAM2 are excited to announce that Todd Judy and Kevin Schettler have agreed to join CAM2’s sales team.”
Todd Judy comes to CAM2 with 29 years’ experience in the petroleum industry having begun his career with Phillips Petroleum and later worked for Citgo, Shell Oil and most recently with Cross Oil/Martin Lubricants. Todd brings to CAM2 a vast knowledge base in the lubricant sales arena and has won numerous awards for sales and team leadership. Todd will be primarily working the Southeastern region of the U.S. Todd is a graduate of East Tennessee State University.
Kevin Schettler comes to CAM2 with 25 years’ experience in the automotive lubricants industry. Kevin began his career with Valvoline and has also worked for BP Castrol and Cross Oil/Martin Lubricants. Kevin holds a BS degree in Industrial Engineering from Washington University in St. Louis Missouri. Kevin’s base of operations will primarily be in the Mid-West.
Walter Tyson, says, “The expansion of our sales rep and distribution team further strengthens our ability to meet the needs of our customers. Todd and Kevin’s experience and background are a perfect fit for CAM2 and their skills will greatly benefit CAM2 and our customers.”
Jack Baker, CEO of CAM2 adds “A key reason for CAM2’s success over the past three decades has been our exceptional sales team and we continue to add to that team to insure CAM2’s success well into the future. We are excited to add Todd and Kevin to our team.”
CAM2 International, LLC, has been acquired by a group of investors led by Jack Baker, CAM2’s long time President and now CEO, and Walter Tyson, CAM2’s newly named President.
March 3, 2014
Jack Baker, President of CAM2 since its inception in 1984, is excited to announce that he along with a group of investors that includes Walter Tyson, former Senior VP of Martin Lubricants/Cross Oil, have acquired ownership of CAM2 International, LLC from Omega Holdings Co, LLC. CAM2 International is proud to announce that with this new strategic plan they have positioned themselves for success and very strong future growth.
This asset purchase includes the rights to all of the CAM2 brands, the CAM2 marketing organization and various other assets to include the Hammond Lubricants Works blending facility, located just south of Chicago in Hammond Indiana. CAM2 will also continue to manufacture at the Golden State Lubricant Works blending facility, located in Bakersfield California. Jack Baker will remain with CAM2 and take on the role of CEO and Walter Tyson will become the new President. Jack Baker says “This decision was made to ensure that CAM2 was in a position to be fully focused on its core business and to allow the organization as a whole to be proactive in its efforts to make the necessary changes to grow and prosper in the newly evolving and competitive marketplace. With the addition of Walter Tyson as President of CAM2 and his experience to our existing management team, we believe we have the strongest and most experienced leadership in the lubricants industry today.”
Walter Tyson comes to CAM2 from Martin/Cross Lubricants where he spent twenty-two years serving in numerous positions ending his tenure as Senior Vice President of Martin Lubricants. He was responsible for the construction of their 235,000 SF packaging facility in Smackover, AR and led the team that built and managed the start-up packaging company for the past eleven years. He has a B.S. degree from Harding University and served in the U.S. Marines from 1988 to 1992.
Other than the addition of Walter Tyson as President, the previously existing senior management team will stay in place. The CAM2 management team is comprised of the following individuals; Jack Baker CEO, Walter Tyson President , John Horstman Executive Vice President, Garry Rooney Sr. VP. Special Projects, Steve Shockites VP Logistics, Lindsay Baker-Hegna VP Sales & Marketing and Jeff Cosman VP of Manufacturing.
Walter Tyson, President says “I am proud to join this well respected company and this highly experienced group of senior managers and firmly believe that the continuity of this management team will insure that CAM2’s focus on quality, products, customers and service that has set CAM2 apart from many of its competitors will stay in place.”
About CAM2:
CAM2 International, LLC markets a complete line of World Class Lubricants through an outstanding group of distributors at value prices all across the United States and in numerous international countries. CAM2 offers a wide array of premium quality automotive, commercial and industrial lubricants that includes brake fluids, power steering fluids, greases and gear oils, aerosol and liquid pour chemicals, antifreeze, washer fluid. CAM2 International is the largest independent bulk lubricant supplier in the United States and offers an extensive line of premium lubricants in all package sizes. CAM2 also offers customizable private label programs.
Source: CAM2
Calumet Specialty Products Partners, L.P. Acquires United Petroleum Company
March 3, 2014
Calumet Specialty Products Partners, L.P., a leading independent producer of specialty hydrocarbon and fuel products, announced that it acquired United Petroleum Company, a wholesale supplier and distributor of premium motor oils, coolants and greases. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Privately-held United owns Quantum®, one of the fastest growing lubricants brands in the industry. Founded in 2011, United currently sells more than 160 Quantum-branded products through more than 50 distributors with sales in 35 states nationally. Through its Quantum brand, United sells products into the passenger car, heavy duty truck, farming and industrial end-markets through its distribution partners.
The Quantum brand has become one of the most recognized new lubricants brands in recent years, supported by one of the most respected sales and marketing organizations in the lubricants industry.
“The Quantum brand is one of the fastest growing lubricants brands in the industry,” stated Jennifer Straumins, President and COO of Calumet Specialty Products Partners. “The team at United has brought together a highly effective sales and marketing organization that we intend to leverage as we seek to further increase our addressable markets, while growing our customer base.”
“This acquisition will allow us to further diversify our portfolio of multi-tiered branded lubricants,” stated Bryan Yourdon, Vice President of Calumet’s Branded and Packaged products group. “The Quantum brand will join the Royal Purple and Bel-Ray lubricants brands to provide our global customer base with a unique, fully-integrated product offering. We are excited to welcome the employees of United to the Calumet family.”
For those who may be wondering, JobbersWorld learned that Shane and Claude Terry will be joining the Calumet Team as Vice President Lubricant Sales, and Director Distributor Operations, respectively.
About Calumet Specialty Products Partners, L.P.
Calumet Specialty Products Partners, L.P. (NASDAQ: CLMT) 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 twelve facilities located in northwest Louisiana, northwest Wisconsin, northern Montana, western Pennsylvania, Texas and eastern Missouri and New Jersey.
Eastman to Acquire Aviation Turbine Oil Business from BP
January 28, 2014
Acquisition will enable company to expand fluids product offerings to the aviation market
Eastman Chemical Company today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the assets of BP’s global aviation turbine engine oil business, with annual revenues of approximately $100 million. The acquisition includes a production facility in Linden, NJ, specialized laboratory equipment located in Naperville, IL, and a long-term supply agreement for products related to the acquired business that BP will use to serve industrial markets.
When added to its Skydrol® aviation hydraulic fluids, the acquired fluids product portfolio is expected to enable Eastman to better meet the global aviation industry’s needs. Subject to receipt of required regulatory approvals and satisfaction of other customary closing conditions, the acquisition is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2014. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
“With the acquisition of BP’s global aviation turbine oil business, Eastman will gain a growing and profitable specialty chemical business that aligns well with our existing product offerings,” said Ron Lindsay, chief operating officer. “This acquisition is consistent with our objective of consistent superior value through disciplined capital allocation including bolt-on acquisitions.”
The acquisition is expected to be accretive to Eastman’s full-year 2014 earnings excluding acquisition-related costs and charges. Following the completion of the transaction, the aviation turbine oil business will become part of Eastman’s Specialty Fluids & Intermediates segment.
Moelis & Company is acting as exclusive financial advisor and Jones Day is serving as legal counsel for Eastman on this transaction.
JobbersWorld Note: BP is a major supplier of synthetic aviation turbine oils to commercial airlines, and Skydrol® is the largest selling brand of synthetic hydraulic fluid to the same industry.
For more information about Eastman, visit www.eastman.com
Silogram Lubricants Files Lawsuit Against Former Employees and Others
January 28, 2014
Silogram Lubricants, an independent lubricant manufacturer with operations in Bayonne, NJ, filed a lawsuit against Stevan Jospey, Luis Lebron, Encore Petroleum and a number of others on January 6, 2014 in the New York Southern District Court.
The complaint alleges violation of the Lanham Act; including trademark/tradename infringement, misappropriation of trade secrets, tortious interference with business relations, aiding and abetting fraud and fiduciary duties, breach of contract, and a number of others allegations.
Silogram’s action seeks to remedy what it alleges is criminal activity and civil torts by the defendants aimed at stealing all the value from Silogram and ultimately destroying the company.
Related:
Silogram Lubricants Corp. v. Stevan Jospey et al
JobbersWorld, March 2012 Silogram Lubricants Files Suit Against Everclear
IPAC Names Lorenzo Napoleoni as Sales and Marketing Representative for Europe, Israel and South Africa AND Steve Cereghino as its New Assistant Product Manager
January 28, 2014
IPAC announced the appointment of Lorenzo Napoleoni as its sales representative, effective January 1, 2013, with both sales representation and technical support responsibilities in Europe, Israel and South Africa. He will be based in the Principality of Monaco.
Lorenzo Napoleoni received his education and graduation in Italy. With a large experience in the lubricant’s blending and production, after many years in the downstream area he moved to Monaco, where he enlarged his business in the supply chain of the Petrochemical’s industry. With his vast background in the worldwide market research and business development, he brings to IPAC a great experience and drive for sales and marketing at an international level, in order to realize the Company’s project of an International global presence.
In Addition..
IPAC welcomed Steve Cereghino as its new assistant product manager, effective November 18, 2013, assisting IPAC in its product development, operations, inventory management and marketing and sales. Steve will be based in the home office in Dublin, CA.
Steve Cereghino, a native of the Bay Area, graduated from California State University, Northridge in May of 2013, receiving his Bachelors in public relations, as well as a Minor in finance. Steve’s extensive experience developing marketing tactics and managing social media channels, which will help IPAC expand in the market and improve communication with its consumer base.
IPAC is a full service additive manufacturing and sales company based in Dublin, California with manufacturing locations in Illinois, Louisiana, Texas and California.
Thwaites and Vintage Acquire Ownership of LSC
January 16, 2014
Lubricating Specialties Company (LSC) announced today that Sydney Thwaites, the current Chief Operating Officer, along with Vintage Capital Partners II, L.P. has acquired full ownership of Lubricating Specialties Company (LSC).
According to Steve Milam, retiring CEO of LSC, Thwaites’ leadership has been a long time in the making, and Vintage Capital Partners has enjoyed a long tenured investment relationship with LSC dating back for over a decade. For these reasons, Milam, says, “I see continuing progress and success for LSC both in the US and abroad.”
Sydney Thwaites was named President and CEO of LSC and the rest of the Senior Management Team will remain in place. Milam will take on an advisory role for a period of time as the management team transitions. Thwaites commented, “LSC is pleased to continue to move forward with Vintage Capital while maintaining the continuity and consistency our management team has had with our customers and suppliers for decades. Further, Thwaites adds, “Vintage Capital has played a key role in our growth over the past decade, and this transaction ensures a seamless transition and base for our future growth.”
Mark Sampson, Managing Director of Vintage Capital, says, “This transaction and management transition is an excellent example of what successful succession planning is all about.” In short, he says, “it’s about changes that move a company forward and upward while maintaining superior product quality, service, support and continuity.” And according to Sampson, “A key part of making that happen is about relationships.” Adding to this, Sampson says, “We have enjoyed a relationship with the entire LSC management team for years and appreciate, and value the relationships LSC enjoys with its customers and suppliers. For these reasons, and others, we very much look forward to moving forward with Sydney and the entire LSC Management Team.”
About LSC
Lubricating Specialties Company, founded in 1928 and headquartered in Pico Rivera, California, is the leading contract customer blender and packager of lubricants and greases in the Western United States. 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 operates four facilities in Southern California, all ideally located near the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach to best serve its diverse customer base throughout the United States, Asia and the west coast of South America.
LSC has a long-standing reputation within the lubricant industry as a producer of a broad array of high quality lubricants providing exceptional service in support of its customer, both major oil and independent brands. The Company provides one of the broadest product offerings and services in the industry covering a diverse customer base and a wide variety of industries. LSC is considered the premier independent lube manufacturer in the Western United States and Pacific Rim.
About Vintage Capital
Vintage Fund Management, LLC (VFM) is a private investment fund headquartered in Los Angeles, California providing structured growth capital in partnership with established lower middle market businesses owned and operated by experienced entrepreneurs. Vintage prefers to invest with experienced lower middle market business owners that seek capital solutions and a partnership that allow for the retention of a meaningful equity stake in their business. For more information about Vintage, please contact Mark Sampson, Managing Partner, at (310) 979-9090 ext. 108 or email at msampson@vintage-vfm.com.
Lubricating Specialties Company Contact information:
Sydney Thwaites
President and Chief Executive Officer
(562) 776-4010
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