Caspian Energy (CE): SOCAR Georgia Petroleum has been operating in the Georgian market since 2006? Could you please tell about the success of the company gained throughout this period? What are the plans for the long-term perspective?
Levan Giorgadze, Director of SOCAR Georgia Petroleum: Since 2006, SOCAR Georgia Petroleum is a distinguished player in the Georgian oil products market. The company provides newly equipped petrol stations, offers high quality products and service in every region of Georgia. It is the largest corporate contributor in the state budget. The company is socially active, is involved in many charity events, supports Georgian sport, and different cultural projects. It is a rapidly growing company with over 1,500 employees and has many plans for the future. The development and re-branding of SOCAR market (retail store) network is planned, we have already opened 5 new markets, which are called “WayMart” and where our customers can enjoy quick snacks and delicious coffee. We also plan to expand the number of electric chargers on our stations. The first rapid charger has been installed in Gori. It reduces the charging time to 30 minutes. Overall, seven of our stations are equipped by electric chargers, it gives our customers an ability to travel across Georgia, from Telavi to Batumi, with electric cars.
CE: What importance is attached to the quality of offered fuel?
Levan Giorgadze: One of the main values of the company is to offer high quality products to our customers. All types of Gasoline and Diesel are imported from Europe and comply with Euro-5 standards. Only one type of product, Nano Diesel is imported from Azerbaijan and meets Euro-3/Euro-4 standards. SOCAR Georgia Petroleum uses a variety of up-to-date technologies and high-tech equipment, in order to assure the quality of the products. Every European quality standard from fuel transportation and storage to reservoir cleaning is met and the processes are, of course, closely monitored. In order to further succeed in our goal of offering the best quality products in Georgia, we also plan to undergo certification from one of the most well-known International Quality Assurance Agencies.
CE: Which place does SOCAR Georgia Petroleum take in the Georgian market in terms of the sales volume? Are there plans to increase the number of petrol filling stations?
Levan Giorgadze: SOCAR Georgia Petroleum is among the leaders and is one of the key players in the Georgian market. Nowadays, it has over 115 petrol filling stations and the plans of expansion for the future are big. We are proud of our multi-functional facilities in Urbnisi and Batumi. And we will be constructing more such modern, multi-functional facilities. Such projects are very important for the development of the country and contribute to the improvement of our economy, create many new jobs and attract tourists.
