The iconic Benzina gas station in Liberec, Czech Republic, is set to undergo a major transformation. The abandoned station, which has become a symbol of the city, will soon be rebranded and renamed as part of a larger process initiated by the Polish group Orlen.
The Benzina gas station, known for its decaying appearance and the presence of an old bus, has served as a parking lot and storage space for old cars. Over the years, the station’s signage has disappeared, leaving only the distinctive red and white fuel pumps as a reminder of its former glory. The last operator of the station was the now-defunct JET network, which was acquired by Lukoil in 2007 and currently operates under the colors of Hungarian company MOL.
Orlen, which operates over 3,000 gas stations across six European countries, began the gradual rebranding of the Benzina stations in 2019. However, this year, the process is expected to accelerate significantly. Zbigniew Leszczyński, a member of the Orlen Unipetrol board, stated that the renaming of the entire network is projected to be completed between 2024 and 2025.
Orlen currently operates in Poland, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Lithuania, and Slovakia, and is also in the process of acquiring gas stations in Austria. The company has employed different strategies for renaming stations in each country. Leszczyński explained that in countries where Orlen’s presence is relatively new, such as Slovakia and Hungary, it made sense to quickly rename the entire network for business and marketing purposes. However, in the Czech Republic, where the Benzina network has a long history and a large presence, a gradual approach was taken. Now, the time has come to accelerate and complete the renaming process. Leszczyński believes that the Czech market is ready for this change, as the Orlen brand is already well-known and accepted by the Czech public.
The Benzina brand was established in 1953 and was officially registered as the brand of the Association of Czechoslovak Refineries in 1958. The national enterprise Benzina was created during a nationwide economic reorganization on April 1, 1958. Benzina Orlen has been a part of the Polish group PKN Orlen since 2005. At the end of 2015, Benzina became a separate branch of the company Unipetrol RPA (now Orlen Unipetrol RPA), a subsidiary of Orlen Unipetrol.
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How does Orlen foresee the reimagined Benzina gas station contributing to the development and well-being of the community in Liberec
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The transformation of the Benzina gas station is a significant step in the revitalization plans for the city of Liberec. The Polish group Orlen, one of Europe’s largest oil refiners and petrol retailers, has taken the initiative to rebrand and rename the iconic station as part of a larger process.
For the residents of Liberec, the Benzina gas station holds a special place in their hearts. Despite being abandoned and falling into disrepair, it has become a symbol of the city. The station has seen better days, but its decaying appearance and the presence of an old bus have captured the imagination of locals.
However, the days of the neglected Benzina gas station are now numbered. Orlen, with its expertise in the petroleum industry, has recognized the potential of this landmark and has decided to give it a new lease on life. The rebranding and renaming of the station are just the beginning of a revitalization process.
The specific details of the transformation are yet to be revealed, but it is expected that the station will undergo a major renovation. This could include refurbishing the existing structures, adding modern amenities, and transforming the site into a vibrant hub for both locals and visitors.
The significance of the Benzina gas station goes beyond its physical appearance. As part of the rebranding process, Orlen aims to create a new identity that aligns with the changing needs and aspirations of the community. The station will not only serve as a refueling point but also as a place that fosters social connections and offers unique experiences.
The reimagined Benzina gas station will continue to be an iconic landmark in Liberec, but with a fresh and modern twist. Orlen’s vision is to transform it into a destination that celebrates the city’s heritage while embracing innovation and sustainability.
With its commitment to excellence and extensive industry knowledge, Orlen is determined to make the Benzina gas station a place that the residents of Liberec can be proud of. It symbolizes the company’s dedication to creating valuable spaces that contribute to the development and well-being of the communities it serves.
The transformation of the Benzina gas station in Liberec is an exciting development that promises to breathe new life into this iconic site. With Orlen at the helm, the future looks bright for this once-abandoned landmark, and residents can look forward to a rejuvenated space that reflects the dynamic spirit of the city.
