Shell Lubricants Celebrates Five Years as World's Number One Lubricants Supplier

HOUSTON, Nov. 17, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- For the fifth year running Shell Lubricants (Shell) topped the list of the world's leading lubricants suppliers, according to annual research into the global lubricants market. The study, conducted by Kline & Company (Kline), gave Shell more than 13 percent of the market by volume in 2010 and a two percent lead over its nearest competitor. The report also found Shell to lead in the branded lubricants category.

In 2010, Shell correspondingly maintained its leadership position in the North American market with almost 13 percent share by volume, and its leadership in the U.S. lubricants market specifically with more than 11 percent share. In addition, Shell strengthened its leadership position in Mexico, the fastest-growing North American market, achieving 23% market share.

"We are very proud to have retained our leadership in North America, and much of the credit goes to our employees' and distributors' efforts to defy the economy and continue to succeed in the marketplace," said Lisa Davis, president, Shell Commercial Fuels and Lubricants, Americas. "We are also pleased with our performance in South America, where our employees and macro distributors are poised for ongoing success."  

Global demand for lubricants as a whole grew by around 6 percent over 2009 – indicating a slight recovery from the recession—and the U.S., the largest single market in terms of lubricant volume demand, accounted for 23 percent of global consumption.

Looking ahead, Kline forecast slow growth for the market as a whole, but identified growth opportunities at country and product level. The strongest growth is predicted to come from the BRIC countries—Brazil, Russia, India and China--plus South Korea. Predicted continued growth for South America bodes well for Shell, which increased its share in 2010 in both Brazil and in South America overall.  

The study also highlights increasing demand for synthetic lubricants, which help end users improve energy efficiency and prolong equipment life.

"Five years at the top is a remarkable achievement. It shows that our consistent strategy of focusing on leading technology and strong customer relationships has served us well," said Mark Gainsborough, Head of Lubricants for Shell.

* Kline & Company is a worldwide consulting and research firm. All data in this media release has been sourced from Kline & Company's report "Global Lubricants Industry 2010: Market Analysis and Assessment," unless otherwise stated.

About Shell Lubricants

The term "Shell Lubricants" collectively refers to Shell Group companies engaged in the lubricants business. They manufacture and blend products for use in a range of applications, from consumer motoring to mining and power generation to commercial transport. The Shell Lubricants portfolio of lubricant brands includes Pennzoil®, Quaker State®, Shell Rotella® T, Shell Rimula®, Shell Tellus®,  and Jiffy Lube®. Shell has leading lubricants research centers in Germany, China, Japan (joint venture with Showa Shell), UK, and USA.

SOURCE Shell Lubricants