Grupo Moure, a company focused on filling stations and carwash services, closed 2023 with a total turnover of 103 million euros, representing an increase of nearly 10 percent from the previous year, the group announced in a press release. The group, which includes Elefante Azul, Autonetoil, Petronet, and Washnet Factory, will celebrate its 30th anniversary this year and expanded its workforce by 19.6 percent to 134 employees, 22 more than in the prior year.
The group’s chief executive officer, Manel Montero, explained that the company undertook its largest investment in its three decades of history by acquiring Petroest and its three service stations in Mallorca, a move that strengthens its position in the quality low-cost gasoline sector. Grupo Moure operates in Menorca (2 centers), Mallorca (8), and Ibiza (1). The year ahead is expected to bring the opening of the Manacor station, the largest in the group to date, and the Autonetoil location in Vilanova i la Geltrú.
Montero outlined that the strategy for the new year will echo 2023 by pursuing a mix of organic growth through new centers and the acquisition of existing stations to transform them into Autonetoil and Elefante Azul sites. The plan envisions opening between five and six new locations, with a focus on the Balearic Islands, Catalonia, Madrid, and Galicia. Additional regional investments would be considered if suitable business opportunities arise and investment conditions are favorable.
Recreational boats and smart stores
This year the group will also work to expand the facilities and productive capacity of Washnet Factory, a factory and installer of washing centers and customized modules, to meet new growth options. Simultaneously, Grupo Moure continues diversifying its business by investing in two major projects. One is the creation of a new holding company named Kumbra Yachts, which will focus on the design, construction, and sale of recreational boats. The first vessel is planned to be launched next May. Committed to developing innovative solutions, a new line of business will also appear related to the installation of smart stores. This groundbreaking format would allow customers to shop without staff, offering a self-service experience enhanced by artificial intelligence. The store would be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with entry via a banking card and no checkout required.
Growth of electric mobility
Regarding the sector’s recent developments, one of the most discussed topics has been the European Parliament’s proposal to ban the sale of new cars with internal combustion engines starting in 2035. In this context, Marcos Moure highlighted the pivotal role of synthetic fuels or e-fuels in this transition. These fuels could lower carbon emissions without compromising vehicle use and sales. He cautions, however, that while these fuels have the potential to reduce emissions to nearly zero, their impact depends on ongoing development and deployment across the energy and automotive ecosystems.
Concerns about drought for car washes
Another major concern for the sector is the current drought created by climate change, which is particularly severe along the Mediterranean coast. Water conservation through professional car wash centers can be a key action, as a professional wash uses far less water than home washing. At Elefante Azul a commitment to environmental preservation is evident, with systems that collect and filter residual and contaminated water from the washing process, separating waste and enabling a portion of water to be reused for both track and gantry operations. This approach demonstrates how sustainable practices can support growth while protecting the environment, according to Marcos Moure.