PRESS RELEASE August 24, 2006
Autotank and Gilbarco Veeder-Root have concluded an agreement to cooperate with the marketing and production of fuel dispensing equipment. The companies are joining forces to develop and manufacture a range of products adapted to the Nordic market, where there is a need for robust performance in sub-zero temperatures, coupled with global cost efficiencies and forecourt marketing capability.
Initially Autotank will in addition to its NordicLane brand start marketing the Gilbarco range of dispensers. The companies will work together to ensure that the dispensing equipment is compatible with the existing payment and forecourt management systems marketed by Autotank. New products will also be launched together, building on GVR's product features such as EcoMeter, as well as future innovations. Service, spares and installation will be handled by Autotank which has recently expanded its maintenance activities by acquisitions in Sweden and Norway.
"This is an exciting cooperation that will enable customers in the Nordic to benefit from GVR's global technology leadership, coupled with Autotank's local ability to adapt, install and maintain cost-efficient petrol station forecourts" says Peter Dilnot, GVR EMEA Managing Director. He adds, "We are committed to leveraging the full range of our combined capabilities to offer market-leading products and services in the region."
Peter Hutton, CEO of Autotank highlights the emerging need for networked equipment enabling remote diagnostics and reduced maintenance, as well as ensuring that customers have equipment for new fuels and additives. "We have been working together on pumps and tank level gauges for some time already, and this announcement is a logical and very positive step forward for our firms", he says.
The agreement takes effect immediately and cooperation is already well under way with the first installations of the new GVR combined diesel/AdBlue units, together with joint offers to customers.
For more information, contact:
Peter Hutton, President, Autotank Ltd, tel. +358 40 753 0263