CIOMA Hosts delegation from Japan Federation of Petroleum Retailers Association

On September 24, 2014, members of the CIOMA Board of Directors and staff hosted a delegation of 9 guests from the Japan Federation of Petroleum Retailers Association. The meeting started with the President of the Japanese Association explaining the current status and issues facing the petroleum retailers in Japan.  He shared the changing climate for the independent petroleum retailer due to the increased interest and expansion of the major oil companies into the retail segment.  Independent retailers are closing at a rate of 4 stations per day.  The delegation from Japan was very interested in learning about the distribution of gasoline and diesel in CA including the jobber’s role and function, how additive is introduced into branded gasoline, changes in ratio of branded and unbranded gasoline, ownership of stations, types of gas stations with other businesses attached (convenience stores, quick serve restaurants, car washes, garage/service station), etc.