Virši plans to take over four more Astarte fuel stations
Latvian fuel network Virši is seeking to take over four more former Astarte filling stations in Preiļi, Cesvaine, Koknese and Višķi, pending Competition Council approval.
The Competition Council is reviewing an application under which Virši would gain long-term lease rights to four fuel stations located in Preiļi, Cesvaine, Koknese and Višķi. Once approved, these stations would gradually be rebranded under the Virši name.
The move is part of a broader cooperation with SIA Naftimpeks, under which Virši has already absorbed 17 fuel stations owned by that company. Former Astarte stations in Eleja, Tērvete, Brankstūri, Tukums, Dobele, Aizpute, Roja, Iecava, Baldone, Līvāni, Pļaviņas, Aknīste, Viesīte, Ķegums, Tīreļi, and two stations in Jelgava have already switched to the Virši brand.
Network continues to expand
Following that transition, Virši currently operates 101 fuel stations across Latvia. Reconstruction and rebranding work is still ongoing at the newly acquired stations, with the goal of having them fully match Virši's brand identity and standards by the end of the year.
If the Competition Council approves the new deal, Virši's network would grow to 105 fuel stations in total. Company board chairman Jānis Vība said the additional takeover would also be carried out gradually, with investment in station modernization, infrastructure and service quality, while maintaining a responsible approach toward existing employees. Completion of the deal depends on the Competition Council's final assessment and decision.
