bp to sell Dutch fuel and EV businesses to Catom, advancing its $20bn divestment strategy and streamlining downstream operations.
bp, a prominent player in the energy industry known for supplying fuels like gasoline and diesel, has agreed to sell its mobility & convenience and bp pulse businesses in the Netherlands to Catom. This divestment is part of bp鈥檚 wider $20 billion global asset sale initiative. Expected to be finalized by the end of 2025, subject to regulatory clearance, the deal reflects bp鈥檚 ongoing efforts to streamline its downstream operations. It supports the company's strategy to optimize its portfolio by focusing on integrated business models and long-term value generation.
The sale includes approximately 300 bp-owned or branded fuel retail sites across the Netherlands, some of which also feature on-site electric vehicle (EV) charging facilities. In addition, the deal covers 15 fully operational bp pulse EV charging hubs and eight more currently in development, along with bp鈥檚 fleet services in the country.
Catom, a rapidly expanding energy player in the Netherlands, was chosen as the acquirer based on the strength of its offer, which included detailed plans for growing the business and assurances regarding the continuity of employment conditions for existing staff. Established in 1998 by experienced entrepreneurs, Catom is well-known for its expertise in the trading, distribution, and retailing of fuels and lubricants. With this acquisition, Catom will significantly bolster its retail presence, bringing its total number of sites under the OK brand to over 400, strategically spread across the country.
Emma Delaney, bp鈥檚 Executive Vice President for Customers & Products, highlighted the rationale behind the transaction: 鈥淲e鈥檝e built a strong and high-performing retail and convenience business in the Netherlands. However, as part of bp鈥檚 broader strategic realignment and focus on a more integrated downstream model, we believe that the Dutch business will benefit from new ownership better suited to take it forward.鈥�
She added that bp is working closely with Catom to ensure a smooth transition with minimal disruption to employees and customers.
Catom CEO Jan Willem Westerhuis expressed enthusiasm about the deal, stating, 鈥淭his acquisition brings us closer to becoming the leading brand in our sector in the Netherlands. We are pleased to welcome our new colleagues and look forward to expanding our reach and capabilities.鈥�
The agreement follows bp鈥檚 update in its first-quarter 2025 results, where it revised its divestment target for the year to between $3 billion and $4 billion. As of that announcement, $1.5 billion in divestments had already been signed or completed. Further details on divestment progress are expected with bp鈥檚 Q2 2025 financial results.
This move reflects bp鈥檚 evolving strategic direction, aiming for a more streamlined, future-ready business model with a focus on value optimization and sustainability.
