OMCs invite applications for 228 dealerships

Public sector oil marketing companies (OMCs)—Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) have invited applications from entrepreneurs to operate 228 retail outlets in Dakshina Kannada as a part of their expansion plan.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, BPCL Territory Coordinator (Retail) Goraknath said that PSUs are undertaking the retail outlet network expansion in tandem with the growing demand of petrol and diesel.

"Expansion in the retail outlet network is undertaken by oil marketing companies, primarily to meet the growing fuel needs and for the convenience of customers in emerging markets like upcoming highways, agricultural pockets and industrial hubs. Accordingly, applications are invited for setting up 44 outlets by BPCL, 134 by IOC and 50 by HPCL in Dakshina Kannada district," he said.

At present, the district has 37 BPCL, 82 IOCL, and 34 HPCL retail outlets. There is a growth of 8-10% in the vehicles, which has necessitated the demand for petrol and diesel. Due priority was given to expansion in rural areas as well, he said.

Goraknath said that the retail outlet network in rural, remote and far flung areas are also being expanded with the intention of catering to the rural agricultural demand of living in remote areas by providing quality product. Additionally, the expansion of retail outlet network is expected to generate employment opportunities also.

BPCL Territory Manager (Retail) Vinod C H said that out of 228 outlets, 22.5% is reserved for SC/ST, 27% for OBC and 50.5% for general category.

He said that the process of dealer selection has been simplified in line with the government’s emphasis on “ease of doing business.”

"The application form has also been simplified. The procedure of submitting voluminous documents by the applicants, in support of eligibility has been dispensed with," he added.

Only the selected candidate would be required to produce the documents. A computerised draw of lots and bid opening would be held under the aegis of an independent government agency such as NIC and MSTC, to bring in more transparency. All the retail outlets will be constructed with the latest technology, including automation, he stated.

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