News from Petroleum Trends International, Inc.

Should API SA Engine oils still be on the shelves?

"There are some applications that call for non-additized oils, but modern car engines are not among them - in fact these oils will cause modern engines to self-destruct due to the complete lack of essential anti-wear, detergent, dispersant, anti-oxidant, and anti-corrosion additives. Yet the marketers hide this fact and position the oils on the shelf alongside quality brand-name engine oils with claims that are carefully crafted to deceive the consumer... The problem is not the SA oils, the problem is the way they are labeled and marketed. I don't believe the industry will do anything about this outrage other than pay lip service - it will take legal action or national television exposure to actually be effective. Anyone have contacts at 60 Minutes?"

What's next for back office software?

"Visualize a real-time, seamless process where marketer personnel can initiate a comprehensive group of transactions through their back-office system that in turn, initiates transactions in the appropriate majors' system or visa-a-versa. That would be the ultimate in connectivity. Of course there is no software in the market that even comes close to this level of connectivity but there are several instances where software vendors, working with a major, have put a dent in the problem... One good example of a software vendor teaming up with a major to create connectivity is the DM2 Inc. and ConocoPhillips partnership."

How important are synthetics to you?

"Synthetics can offer the marketer the ability to differentiate their offering. In many cases, synthetics can be real problem solvers for customers and will further demonstrate the marketer's ability to be a solutions provider. Unfortunately in the PVL sector the offerings are confusing and the use of the "term" synthetic is too broadly used."

"The Amsoil XL line is based on Group III base oils. The remainder of their engine oil line they claim is based on PAOs and esters. Without a gas chromatograph scan it is impossible to know."

Supplier relations - For Better or for Worse

"The answer lies in who is driving the ship at the time. If you don't like what is happening with your supplier....wait a minute. I am sure it will change. A good alignment choice today, could be a devastating one tomorrow."

"Suppliers are backing single product line marketers with pricing support and exclusive territories. If you have multiple major oil product lines, your suppliers don't view you as team players."