Rosneft, Pirelli to expand cooperation in retail

Saint Petersburg, Russia- Rosneft and Pirelli have signed an agreement of cooperation in marketing, according to a statement by the Russian oil company.

Signed at Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum on 20 June, the agreement calls for “further development of [the] retail chain of Pirelli products” in Rosneft filling stations.

Moreover, said the statement, the parties agreed to continue with the project aimed at the creation of a concept “Pirelli flagship tire-centre” with “expanded range of services and exclusive design”.

Based on the agreement, the two sides will study the possibilities of opening of mobile tire-changing stations for seasonal use within Rosneft retail stations.

Pirelli and Rosneft opened their first tire centre at a Rosneft “Olympic-format” petrol station in Sochi.

The two have agreed to increase the tire sites to 200 centres in Russia by 2019.

About a year ago Rosneft and a series of allied companies acquired a 13-percent stake in Pirelli. Six executives with or associated with the Russian oil & gas giant were subsequently appointed to the tire maker’s board of directors.

Pirelli and Rosneft, in partnership with Synthos, are also involved in the production of eco-friendly synthetic rubber to be produced in the Russian port city of Nakhodka. The rubber is to be ultimately used in the production of “green tires” to improve fuel efficiency and grip in both wet and dry conditions.