Hola Akron - Mexican lubricants brand introduced to Jamaican market

Chad Bryan, Gleaner Writer

Beep Beep Tyres, Batteries and Lubes Limited, headquartered in Ocho Rios, St Ann, has turned to Mexican company, Mexicana de Lubricantes, and its Akron line of petroleum products to fill a gap it perceives in the local market.

"We saw in the market where there was a void, with many of the multinationals pulling out. And so there was a void in the market for consistent, reasonably priced products," said chief executive officer of Beep Beep, Daniel Gonzales.

"So, like any businessman or like anybody, you look for opportunities in the market and there was one created in our opinion through Akron. We decided to see if we could gain some traction in the market," Gonzales explained.

The Akron line includes products for gasolene and diesel engines. They are subdivided into Premium, Force, Heavy Duty and Resistance categories, among others.

He believes the products will transform the market, because of their high quality.

"This product is coming in at a very competitive price. It has all the technologies required to make it a superior oil. There are a lot of other products in the market that are cheap, but do not have the quality of this product. Some people cut corners, but those at Akron do not cut corners with the packaging, research and development, quality controls and the back-up service, like the testing of the oils," the CEO said.

"If there is an issue, there is a following up of service. A lot of people sell oil but do not provide you with the service," Gonzales added.

He continued that Akron was chosen as it is the largest producer of blended lubricants in Mexico and has the endorsement of several renowned brands and organisations.

During the product launch, held at the Knutsford Court Hotel, New Kingston, on Thursday, export manager for Mexicana de Lubricantes, Marco Carvajal, pointed out that Akron was launched in 1999 to compete with brands in the market and is distributed to approximately 16 international markets.

Plans are now in place to expand to Nicaragua and other areas.

Sales and marketing manager for Beep Beep, Ameen Shoucair, pointed out that Akron products are already selling well.