A lot has been accomplished. But there is still more to be done.

The Petrol Group is the biggest Slovenian energy company, currently leading an effective strategy of transforming into an important regional supplier of comprehensive energy and environmental products and services.

In 2008, particular attention was devoted to further development of the Group’s energy activities. Through our purchase of Toplarna Hrastnik, we contributed to the enhancement of Slovenia’s comprehensive energy supply; we also started actively expanding our natural gas supply network to the markets of SE Europe.

A long-standing dream of people responsible for the development of the Petrol Group was fulfilled when the first energy self-sufficient petrol service station in our widespread network became operational. By signing a contract on the establishment of the Development Centre for Hydrogen Technologies, the Group confirmed its bold plans in the area of alternative energy sources.

In 2008, the 18th children’s drawing contest entitled “Children to Adults” was held. In co-operation with the Red Cross of Slovenia, the high-profile “Give a Toy, Get a Smile” project was carried out, as part of which over 20 tonnes of toys were collected.

Despite unstable operating conditions in the period of general uncertainty, the Petrol Group fulfilled its goals set out in its strategic documents. Our leading role in the domestic oil trading market was upgraded and combined with our speedy orientation towards a wider region.

The decisions and measures adopted by the Petrol Group demonstrated our timely response to the demanding operating conditions. Our sales results surpassed in all respects the figures achieved in 2007. However, our responsibility towards our key stakeholders, partners and employees does not stop at this point. We will continue building a contemporary, innovative and learning energy company.

In 2008, the Petrol Group generated net sales revenues of EUR 2.9 billion, an increase of 40% over the previous year. Gross profit amounted to EUR 285 million, up 21% from 2007. Operating profit/loss totalled EUR - 72.9 million, before the impairment of investments EUR 69.7 million. Net profit/loss amounted to EUR - 54.8 million, before the impairment of investments EUR 59.4 million.

The Petrol Group sold 2.5 million tonnes of oil products in 2008, exceeding by 19% the level of sales achieved in 2007. Revenues from sales of supplementary and other merchandise amounted to EUR 374 million, 42% above the figure achieved in 2007.

At the end of 2008, the Petrol Group operated 425 service stations, of which 312 in Slovenia, 67 in Croatia, 41 in Bosnia and Herzegovina, 3 in Serbia and 2 in Kosovo. Compared to 2007, the number of service stations increased by 45 in 2008. The Petrol Group operated 27 gas supply concessions, 3 more than at the end of 2007. The Group’s customers were supplied from 2,000 LPG depots. This figure exceeds the one achieved at the end of 2007 by 241.