The local fuel trade division of Russia ’s oil major Lukoil will expand its network of franchised fuel stations from 12 to 27 in the next three years. Lukoil Bulgaria runs a total of 180 fuel stations at present and plans to expand its retail network to about 300 units. It will invest USD 300mn until 2011 against earlier drafted USD 200mn. The fuel trader is striving to take the leading position in terms of retail sales. Petrol is seen the country’s largest retailer accounting for more than 25% of the sales at present, while Lukoil occupies the second place with 16-18%, according to company’s estimates. OMV and Shell hold equal shares of 16% each. Romania’s Rompetrol and the local subsidiary of the Greek Hellenic Petroleum, Eco Elda, also plan aggressive expansion on the local market through acquisitions and opening of new stations through franchise deals or own investments.