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Will Price "Postings" Commoditize the Lubricants Business? 

On August 2, JobberWorld ran an article titled; Will Price "Postings" Commoditize the Lubricants Business.  In that article, we said that whereas most agree lubricants are not a commodity, some say that's exactly how pricing/news services are now treating lubricants when they publish "posted" wholesale/jobber prices for lubricants from various suppliers. Further, we noted that many are concerned that rather than considering the quality and performance differences of lubricants, and the services and support that differentiate products and suppliers, lubricant pricing/news services are trying to fit a square peg into a round hole by treating lubricants as if they are commodities, like fuel. And whereas purveyors of wholesale pricing data on lubricants can make a small fortune by repackaging and selling data already in the hands of most marketers, and some buyers might even find short-term gains biting into this apple, at the end of the day, buyers and sellers could easily bite into worms if they treat lubricants, like fuels, as a commodity.

We then polled our readers to let JobbersWorld know what they think by asking the question "Do Services that post prices for engine oils, and other lubricants provide a Service or Disservice for Lubricant Buyers and Sellers? It's clear the majority of our readers feel you will eat more worms than apple if you participate as a data provider or consumer to such services. Seventy three (73%) of our readers, comprised primarily of lubricant marketers and manufactures, say pricing/news services do a disservice to buyers and sellers when they post prices.  

Only 27% say it's a service. Interestingly, based on JobbersWorld's data, close to 25% of lubricant marketers say they lead with price when they sell. This might help explain why a similar number think it's a service. But at the end of the day, one of our readers may have said it best,  "Whether you are a buyer or a seller of lubricants,  if your business lives by the sword/price, your business may die by the sword/price."    An interesting point to ponder. 

Posted June 9, 2011

Lubricating Specialties Company

• Lubricants and Fluids Sales position in the Greater Los Angeles California market

Lubricating Specialties Company a well-established, leading blender and packager of oils, greases and industrial fluids on the West Coast, is seeking highly motivated and creative sales candidate.  LSC is seeking to fill a Territory Sales Manager position in the Los Angeles area. The successful candidate will be responsible for outside oil, grease and industrial fluid sales to an existing base of independent Jobbers. Duties will also include expanding the current customer base by adding new accounts and expanding product offerings in those accounts.

LSC offers an excellent salary package including commission, health insurance, 401k, fuel and cell phone reimbursement. AA/EOE. Qualified candidates may submit resume to: acastillo@lubespecialties.com