KUWAIT CITY, Sept 27: Kuwait Petroleum International (KPI) announced on Friday a strategic partnership with European services firm WEX to introduce a joint fuel card, CartissimaQ8 - WEX, targeting the Italian market.

According to a KPI statement to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), the collaboration aims to enhance KPI’s presence in Italy by opening a new sales channel through WEX’s global business solutions platform, offering improved services for fleet and corporate customers across the country.

KPI Chief Executive Officer Shafi Al-Ajmi described the agreement as a strategic move aligned with Kuwait Petroleum Corporation’s 2040 vision, which focuses on expanding global reach and adopting innovative, sustainable energy solutions. He added, “This agreement is an addition towards expanding the spread of the CartissimaQ8 card as one of the most prominent solutions in the Italian fuel card market.”

The partnership grants WEX customers access to over 3,400 service stations, including Q8, Q8easy, and authorized partners, as well as the option to use new-generation fuels such as Q8 HVO and Q8 Hi Perform, which combine high performance with sustainable mobility.

Al-Ajmi lauded KPI’s strong international market presence and its capacity to deliver products and services aligned with global transformations and customer expectations. He emphasized Kuwait’s role as a reliable partner in the energy sector, as well as in refining and marketing, contributing to economic, social, and environmental development both locally and internationally.

Vincenzo Maniacchi, Director of Cards and Digital Payments at KPI Italy, said the partnership reinforces the company’s position in the fuel card market and confirms CartissimaQ8 as a comprehensive solution for corporate fleets. He highlighted that cooperating with WEX enables KPI to access a broader and more diverse customer base while offering simple, secure, and innovative services aligned with future mobility trends.

Kate Reichenbach, Managing Director of European Mobility Solutions at WEX, called the partnership “an important milestone” in WEX’s efforts to strengthen its Italian network. She noted the collaboration combines KPI’s extensive station network and reliable services with WEX’s sales, marketing, and operational expertise. Reichenbach stated, “This agreement provides customers with greater payment flexibility and an advanced digital experience,” adding, “This partnership expands our presence in the market and embodies our shared commitment to innovation and building a seamless digital future for the fleet sector.”

Founded in 1983, KPI is a global marketing company affiliated with Kuwait Petroleum Corporation. It operates a network of over 4,700 retail and dedicated road service stations across Europe, including more than 2,800 stations in Italy. KPI also supplies jet fuel at over 70 airports worldwide and holds shares in three global refineries located in Italy, Vietnam, and Oman through partnerships with international oil companies.