---

OW Bunker, one of the world's largest suppliers and traders of marine fuels and lubricants, today announced a successful start to its new physical operations in North America.

Operating offshore in the Gulf of Mexico lightering zones, 40,000 metric tonnes of fuel oil has already been sold to customers in less than two months, with continued demand forecast.

Commenting on the Gulf of Mexico supply operation, Adrian Tolson [pictured], Regional Manager, North America, Physical Division, OW Bunker, said: "OW Bunker has unrivaled experience in providing offshore supply services. Customers, particularly the many tanker fleets operating in the region, are realizing both the benefits of not having to deviate from trading patterns, but also the fact that it is often cheaper to buy offshore than in higher priced, more traditional US bunkering ports.

"On top of this, our bunkering vessel, Elisalex Schulte, is the most modern vessel in the region with outstanding pumping rates, frequently delivering fuel at an average rate of 700 metric tons per hour. This saves time for our customers and further increases their operational efficiencies, which we know is so important to them.

"We are pleased with the start we have had. We are seeing a continued demand from our customer base, and are focused on ensuring further supply flexibility to meet their increasing needs.”

OW Bunker launched its physical supply division in the US at the end of November 2012, operating in international waters in the Gulf of Mexico, off both the Texas and Louisiana coastlines.

Image: Adrian Tolson, Regional Manager, North America, Physical Division, OW Bunker.