Shell-branded fuel retailing launches in Sri Lanka with RM Parks and Tristar Group partnership

From left: US Ambassador Julie Chung, RM Parks President Jason Callison, and Tristar Group CEO Eugene Mayne, along with Shell and RM Parks officials

US Ambassador Julie Chung (fifth from left), Tristar Group CEO Eugene Mayne (fourth from left), RM Parks President Jason Callison (sixth from left), and Shell and RM Parks officials

The first Shell-branded fuel station has opened in Sri Lanka at the B.S. Cooray Filling Station, Ambathale. This follows the signing of a retail brand licence agreement by Shell Brands International AG (Shell) and RM Parks Ltd., and affiliates of Shell and RM Parks Ltd. signing a product supply agreement in March 2024.

RM Parks Ltd. is a partnership of the Tristar Group (Tristar), a fully integrated energy logistics business serving the downstream oil and gas industry, and RM Parks Inc., an experienced distributor of Shell fuels in the North American fuel retailing market.

RM Parks Ltd. will rebrand a network of 150 retail fuel stations across Sri Lanka to Shell, which it was awarded a contract to operate for an initial period of 20 years by the Sri Lankan Ministry of Petroleum and Energy in 2023.

Tristar Group CEO Eugene Mayne said: “This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s energy sector, bringing together RM Parks’ extensive experience in fuel distribution and Tristar’s strong logistics and supply chain capabilities. The collaboration aims to enhance the country’s fuel retail landscape by introducing global best practices, superior service standards, and innovative energy solutions to benefit Sri Lankan consumers.”

RM Parks Inc. President Jason Callison commented: “Today is a wonderful step forward as we open our first Shell-branded location. For over a century, Shell has been a name synonymous with excellence, trust, and innovation in the global energy sector. Shell is not only known for its quality fuel and lubricants but also for its unwavering commitment to sustainability, technology, and community development. RM Parks Inc., a third generation petroleum marketer in the United States and Mexico, and Tristar Group, one of the leading energy logistics companies in the world, are excited to bring this legacy back to Sri Lanka and partner in the country’s future growth and development. We are thankful to the Sri Lankan people for giving us this opportunity and we look forward to being the very best stewards for the country.” 

Chief Guest US Ambassador Julie Chung stated: “The launch of Shell-branded fuel stations in Sri Lanka is a milestone, providing reliable fuel distribution options to a country that has experienced shortages. With California-based RM Parks Inc. at the helm of distribution, known for its leadership in the industry and commitment to quality service, this partnership is a great example of American business solving global energy challenges. This initiative will create jobs, stabilise fuel availability, and support Sri Lanka’s economic growth and stability.”

Shell Mobility GM – Licenced Markets Flavia Ribeiro Pessanha added: “This is the first of many stations that will open in the coming months and years, and we cannot wait to see the Shell brand in Sri Lankan cities and on major roads throughout the country. Every day, around 33 million drivers around the world visit a Shell service station for an evolving range of quality fuels, a welcoming and comfortable break on the journey, and a retail experience that offers customers convenience, quality, and choice.”