OW Bunker, one of the world’s leading physical distributors and resellers of marine fuel, has announced the launch of physical distribution operations in Los Angeles and Long Beach, further expanding its presence in North America.  The move comes less than 18 months after launching a physical offering offshore in the Gulf of Mexico, as well as a recent deal signed in February 2014 with UNIPEC America to provide products at the BOSTCO fuel oil terminal in Houston.   Adrian Tolson, Regional Manager, OW Bunker North America, said: “Expanding our operations into the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach is a natural evolution as we look to grow our presence and support for our customers within North America.  Providing a fully integrated, and end-to-end physical solution for our customers that drives efficiencies into their operations, and is flexible to suit the demands of their businesses, is central in helping them to manage fuel costs and operate profitably.” In combination, Los Angeles and Long Beach remain the largest container ports in North America, with just under 15 million TEUs per year.  Marine fuel distribution potential remains significant, and Los Angeles and Long Beach will likely take on a key supply role for distillate fuels.   OW Bunker is establishing a presence to ensure customers are well prepared and have access to quality products ahead of the 2015 0.1% emissions control area (ECA) regulation. Continues Tolson: “With the impending 2015 ECA regulation, it is vital that customers have a clear strategy and plan for the procurement of quality distillates to ensure compliance.  Our role is to actively work with customers to implement this, guaranteeing supply in the locations where they need them and in the most cost effective and risk averse way.”