Finns looking to expand their network of gas stations

Fortum Polska, the local company representing Finnish energy concern Neste, says it plans to expand its retail network of gas stations in Poland by adding 12 new outlets to its already existing 18 this year. The company's management says its ultimate objective is to construct 15 new outlets, at an estimated zl.2 million - zl.3 million per station, every year, reaching 120 stations in 2005. Neste representatives say the expansion plans will include stations that sell gasoline only and will not be accompanied by convenience stores or car washing facilities. Analysts say the main advantage of this model is the concomitant lower gasoline prices (as much as zl. 0.1 less per liter) that may be offered. The Finnish company entered the domestic market in 1991. (Puls Biznesu, p. 9) J.K.