Long Island, N.Y., Retailer Becomes First Area VP Brand

MASTIC, N.Y. — VP Racing Fuels has formed a retail branding partnership with Andre Hardy, owner and operator of Montauk Native Gas located in Mastic, making the gas station the first on Long Island to brand with VP as well as the first to distribute VP's race fuel blends on the island.

Montauk Native Gas is also co-sponsoring a National Hot Road Association (NHRA) Funny Car and a Top Alcohol Funny Car team, both of which will provide marketing support for the station and the VP Racing Fuels brand.

"I've been a fan of VP since I was a kid and through my involvement in racing recognize its reputation as the top race fuel brand in the industry," stated Hardy. "I founded Montauk Native Gas three years ago to help support our racing programs, which in turn provide exposure for my station. I couldn't pass up the opportunity to brand with VP and leverage the strength of the VP brand to build my retail business, provide more robust support for our racing and ultimately enable me to achieve my dream of driving an NHRA Top Fuel car."

Hardy anticipates supplying fuel to numerous marinas and boating enthusiasts in the area, along with performance enthusiasts. He also plans to add a speed shop to Montauk Native Gas to provide customers with a source for engines, parts and accessories along with race fuels. Additionally, he plans to brand additional gas stations on Long Island with VP over time.

"We're thrilled to partner with Andre and his team in what promises to be a perfect marriage of business models," said Alan Cerwick, president of VP Racing Fuels. "There are tremendous synergies between Montauk Native Gas, Andre's racing program and our retail branding program, and by leveraging the strength of the VP Racing Fuels brand, all will benefit greatly."