Augustinas Impalis, Marketing Executive at LUKOIL distributor Platinum International, explains how motor factors can half their stocking profile by using one brand.
Over the last few years the number of vehicle engine manufacturer specifications has increased dramatically, resulting in a movement towards manufacturer engine specific oils. The changes in the environmental regulations have led to a more complex and variable engine configurations. All of this combined, means that distributors could have a lot of capital investment tied up in their lubricants stock just to ensure that they have the right grade, for the right vehicle, at any given time.
The costs of ensuring customers have the right lubricants available, in the pack size they require, when they need it, are much higher than they used to be.
Reduce stock profile
To date, Platinum International says that the LUKOIL Lubricant has gained more than 400 OE Approvals from leading vehicle manufacturers… but what does this mean to a stockist?
Well, having 400+ approvals over the range means that factors can offer customers a manufacturer approved product for a large proportion of the car parc. This OE approval is said to give customers and garages piece of mind and reassurance at a competitive price. Platinum claims that combined with its logistics solution, factors can reduce their stocking profile by up to 50%. Stockists can order what they need, when they need it with no minimum order quantity, delivered in singles or cases via next day delivery.
Traditionally, lubricants suppliers have had large minimum order quantities, with a three-five day lead time and a rigid structure meaning distributors had to buy full case quantities of product. With Platinum, factors can now order 1x LUKOIL 1 litre bottle and get it on their next delivery. Andy Brook-Smith, Sales Director of Platinum International, said: “You stock the range width, in small quantities and let Platinum support you with their stock depth and fantastic delivery solution.”
LUKOIL says it operates on the principle ‘from the wellhead down to the gas station’, meaning that it is active in oil production, refining, wholesale and the retail sale of petroleum products. The company produces a wide range of products that claim to meet the most advanced operating requirements and specifications of global original equipment manufacturers. It controls the manufacture of around 1.2 million tonnes, and markets these products in more than 40 countries globally.
