The gloves are off in central European fuel retail

Rapid network expansion and upstream muscle are the unstoppable forces pushing Lukoil to the fore of fuel retailing in central and eastern Europe (CEE). The firm is the key mover in the region, expanding its site presence by a remarkable 180% over the past three years. But selling petrol is not simply a numbers game: Lukoil is also successfully incorporating a strong shop proposition.

Published By Datamonitor

OMV: focusing on value-added services to drive market share

Through a partnership with Western Union, fuel retailer OMV is set to offer international money transfer facilities across its network in eight Central and Eastern European countries. This is the second recent venture into the financial services space for OMV, and highlights its high focus on expanding and diversifying its service offering to drive customer satisfaction.

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Maxima: Baltic Tigers' leading grocer still roaring

Despite the downturn facing the once booming Baltic Tiger States, sales at Maxima were up 31.4% to LTL4.79 billion (E1.38 billion) for the first six months of 2008. The outlook remains positive for Maxima, as sales are being boosted by price conscious consumers' attraction to its stores. Meanwhile, expansion in Bulgaria could provide a significant growth opportunity for Maxima outside the Baltics.

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LUKOIL: aiming high in Central Europe

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Kingfisher: franchising scheme to lead to swift expansion

The UK-based Kingfisher is set to introduce a franchise model as part of its long-term growth plans, which are to be announced in the first quarter of 2011. This initiative will enable Kingfisher to expand quickly, reduce the impact of difficult trading conditions in the UK and increase its hold over the European market.

Published By Datamonitor