PGNiG 3 year strategy; Analysts predict loss of market share

Gas monopolist Polish Oil and Gas (PGNiG) has announced a marketing strategy for the years 2003-2006. This way, the concern is preparing for the li beralization of the gas trading market which is slated to take place in July 2004. The gas monopolist will be obliged to share this market with com petitors. Analysts claim that due to this fact, PGNiG may lose even 20-30% of the gas market. "We are not attempting to defend the entire market but we intend to concentrate on its most attractive segments and cooperate with the strongest foreign partners" said PGNiG president Marek Kossowski. PGNiG intends to divide the market by separating corporate, business and ind ividual clients. Larger customers may count on special treatment. Tele communication center, direct sale as well as a customer network service is aimed at upgrading and facilitating PGNiG's relations with individual clients. "We will take special care of our customers from the power sector. We are interested in the expansion of small and medium power plants as well as power and heating plants. We are willing to invest in them by using financial resources from structural funds as well as the National Fund for Environmental Protection (NFOŚ)" said Kossowski. (Puls Biznesu, p. 7) A.Z.