Zhoushan has completed Zhejiang Province’s first simultaneous two-side anchorage operation involving both bonded fuel oil and lubricants, marking another milestone in the port’s integrated maritime services, according to the China (Zhejiang) Pilot Free Trade Zone on Monday (8 June). 

The Bahamas-flagged bulk carrier FALBALA recently received supplies at Mazhi Anchorage, where the bunker vessel Dong Fang Zhao Yang and the supply vessel Fu Rui 688 operated simultaneously on opposite sides of the ship. 

The operation delivered 999.2 metric tonnes (mt) of bonded marine fuel oil and 10 mt of lubricating oil in a single coordinated service call.

Traditionally, vessels at anchorage have followed a sequential “bunkering first, supply later” process, requiring separate operations that increase turnaround times and operating costs. To improve efficiency, the Zhoushan Maritime Safety Administration (MSA) introduced an innovative two-side simultaneous service model designed to enhance safety, compliance and operational efficiency.

Supported by coordinated efforts among maritime and port authorities, Zhoushan’s anchorage bunkering business has grown rapidly. During March and April, international vessels conducted 849 anchorage bunkering calls, up 37.6% year-on-year. In April, bonded marine fuel volume exceeded 800,000 mt for the first time, setting a new monthly record.

Zhoushan MSA said they will review the experience gained from the operation, refine safety and operational standards, and gradually extend the model to other anchorages while expanding one-stop bunkering services.

Photo credit: China (Zhejiang) Pilot Free Trade Zone
Published: 9 June, 2026

Colonial Oil Industries (COI), a division of Savannah-headquartered Colonial Group on Friday (1 May) announced the acquisition of Atkinson Oil Company LLC, a Sandersville-based commercial distributor of fuel and lubricants.

According to the company’s website, COI is a marine fuel supplier that provides LSMGO-DMA, ULMGO-DMA, IFO blends and marine lubricants in South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida and Georgia. 

The acquisition is expected to strengthen COI’s presence across the Southeast and expand its ability to deliver essential fuel and lubricant products to customers in the region.

“Atkinson Oil is a highly respected, relationship-driven business with deep roots in the communities it serves. The Sandersville and Macon markets serve as a natural extension of our growth strategy,” said Christian Demere, president and CEO of Colonial Group.

 “We are proud to welcome the Atkinson team to the Colonial family and look forward to continuing their legacy of trusted service for customers.”

Operations will continue in Sandersville and Macon, Georgia, with all existing facilities remaining active.

“Atkinson Oil Company LLC is pleased to transition its operations to Colonial Oil Industries, Inc., a highly respected leader in the fuel and lubricants industry” said Clint Hancock, chief executive officer of Atkinson Oil. 

“This transition reflects a shared commitment to safety, service excellence, and customer relationships, ensuring continuity for our customers while providing expanded resources and long-term growth opportunities under Colonial Oil’s leadership.”

The acquisition adds 14 Atkinson Oil team members to COI as part of an integration process designed to maintain continuity and support long-term growth.

“Customers and partners of both companies can expect uninterrupted service,” Demere said.

“The combined organisation is focused on maintaining existing relationships and over time, customers will benefit from expanded resources, enhanced distribution capabilities and additional service offerings.”

Photo credit: Colonial Oil Industries
Published: 6 May, 2026

Singapore-based marine lubricant supplier Gulf Marine on Thursday (9 April) announced the expansion of its bonded lubricant supply points in China’s Fujian province, now including key terminals in Putian, Ningde, and Fuqing. 

This expansion allows vessels access to bonded lubricants across 14 additional operation terminals, four chemical product terminals, and two container/bulk cargo terminals across the region. 

“By enhancing our local network, we provide the supply resilience and responsiveness your operations require,” the company said. 

Manifold Times previously reported the company welcoming Reliable I, into service with a naming ceremony at Marina Keppel Bay, marking the arrival and operation of the company’s first purpose-built lubricant supply barge.

The vessel was expected to further strengthen Gulf Marine’s supply chain capabilities in Singapore, ensuring on-time, in-full lubricant delivery to vessels in Singapore and regional ports.

Related: Singapore: Gulf Marine debuts its first purpose-built lubricant supply barge
Related: Gulf Marine expands Singapore fleet to meet customer demand for marine lubricant delivery

Photo credit: Gulf Marine
Published: 10 April, 2026