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Vopak looks for growth 'across the barrel'

The current oil market, with its imbalances in the supply and demand of oil products, offers a bright future for Vopak Oil EMEA, says its new Division President, Rob Nijst.

"We see plenty of business opportunities, both for crudes and petroleum products," says Rob Nijst, who took up his new role as Division President of Vopak Oil EMEA in September.

"The ongoing imbalances in supply and demand, which are across the barrel, have resulted in an enormous growth of worldwide transport of oil products across all segments, including fuel oil, jet fuel, diesel (Europe) and gasoline (USA). Moreover, the midterm forecasts indicate that the imbalances are going to continue."

Another significant factor in the current market is the increasing importance of product segregation, says Rob. "This increases the demand for quality tankage with the emergence of a wider range of products and specifications such as lowsulphur, gas-to-liquid, biofuels and so on. These new product types require more strict quality handling because of the sensitivity of the products, a quality service we can offer to our customers."

Rob is a firm believer in the adage that firm foundations are required for growth.