PJSC Sberbank : Sber, Russian Highways, and Avtoban sign cooperation agreement

Sber has signed an agreement on cooperation in road infrastructure with Russian Highways and Avtoban. The agreement was signed by Anatoly Popov, deputy chairman of the Sberbank Executive Board, Vyacheslav Petushenko, chairman of the Russian Highways Board, and Alexey Andreev, director general of Avtoban.

The parties agreed on strategic cooperation with the aim of developing road service facilities and multifunctional road service zones, improving quality of service, as well as synthesizing Russian and international experiences in the improvement of roadside areas.

Multifunctional road service zones are designed to provide road users with a comprehensive list of services within the boundaries of a single zone and include parking lots, multi-fuel energy stations (including for electric transport), sanitary facilities, rest areas, catering and trade services, motels and campsites, service stations, as well as recreation areas (playgrounds, places for sports, etc.).

Anatoly Popov, deputy chairman of the executive board, Sberbank:

"Road infrastructure is not just asphalt; it includes a full range of improvement works for parking lots, recreation areas, repairs, and other elements that make all routes safe and convenient. As the largest bank in the country, it is important for us to be part of this process - the process of creating the best customer experience for all drivers in Russia. I am certain that this collaboration with our partners will prove fruitful soon."

Vyacheslav Petushenko, chairman of the board, Russian Highways:

"The high growth rates set by Russian Highways for high-speed road infrastructure development require contemporary approaches to road services for all categories of users. The state-owned company is interested in a comprehensive improvement in the quality of and an expansion of the list of services provided on the roadside, while maintaining high average vehicle speeds. I hope that our collaboration with Avtoban and Sberbank will provide significant impetus to the creation of a network of qualitatively new service facilities."

Alexey Andreev, director general, Avtoban:

"Over the past 10 years, Russia has managed the impossible, significantly improving the quality of roads and road infrastructure. However, we are still lagging behind developed countries in the management of roadside areas, and this gap must be closed. Roadside areas have practically unlimited potential for SMEs and big business - for opening large logistics centers and small cafés, auto repair shops and gas stations, and motels and stores. This would guarantee new jobs and increased tax revenue. Landscaped roadside areas are an integral stage of road construction: people will avoid even the most modern and safe roads if there is nowhere to refuel, have breakfast or lunch, stop to rest, or buy souvenirs and necessities on the road. New highways will never become a full-fledged part of the transport system without comprehensive improvement. At the same time, it is necessary to introduce regulation of the improvement of roadside zones, so that each new highway is as convenient and comfortable as possible for transit drivers and local residents."