(LANKAPUVATH | COLOMBO) – Australia’s United Petroleum officially commenced its operations in Sri Lanka under United Petroleum Lanka, celebrating this milestone with an inaugural dealer event titled “Welcome to United” on August 22nd.
The event, held at ITC Ratnadipa, ahead of the planned operational launch at the end of August, highlighted the company’s commitment to establishing a strong presence in the Sri Lankan market. In an exciting announcement, it was revealed that the first shipment of United Petroleum fuel had safely arrived in Colombo, paving the way for United Petroleum Lanka’s highly anticipated launch.
United Petroleum Lanka’s entry will enhance market competitiveness, contributing to the liberalization of the country’s retail petroleum sector. It shared plans to upgrade the quality of offers and services across Sri Lanka by taking over 150 existing fuel stations and has the rights to build 50 new stations. Drawing on its extensive experience in Australia, the company committed to driving positive change in the Sri Lankan market, fostering economic growth, and enhancing the customer experience in the retail fuel sector.
The evening was supported by Kanchana Wijesekera, Minister of Power & Energy and the Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, His Excellency Mr Paul Stephens. Mr. Wijesekera formally welcomed United’s commencement of operations in Sri Lanka.
The “Welcome to United” event set the stage for strong partnerships, bringing together dealers who committed to joining United Petroleum. It provided a platform for these new business partners to learn about the company’s legacy and core values, including safety, growth, and customer experience.
The evening was energized by the presence of UPL’s internationally experienced leadership team, including Dr. Prabath Samarasinghe, Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), who brought a wealth of expertise from his tenure as a former board member of Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CEYPETCO). Dr. Samarasinghe’s experience in the Sri Lankan petroleum industry positions him to effectively lead UPL’s growth objectives in the country.
Joining him was Grant McGregor, the Chief Operating Officer (COO), an Australian national with over 30 years of experience in the international energy and convenience industry. Grant has lived and worked in more than 10 countries, including emerging and developing markets, where he has successfully led operations and growth of fuel station networks.
United Petroleum Australia Private Limited, a leading petroleum trading company, operated approximately 500 fuel stations across Australia, offering convenience and food services. Founded by entrepreneurs Mr. Avi Silver and Mr. Eddie Hirsch, the company expanded its footprint to Sri Lanka for the first time. This multi-billion-dollar, customer-centric enterprise focused on delivering quality, safety, and environmental standards, set to implement best practices in the Sri Lankan retail petroleum market.
