WS Atkins has won a long-term partnership contract with Shell to provide programme management and design services for some 3,500 retail outlets across Europe.

The framework contract - which covers the period to 31 December 2001, with the option of extending for a further five years - will be managed by WS Atkins' newly formed Major Projects Unit. Services to be provided include overall programme management and design relating to Shell's retail operations Europe-wide.

WS Atkins' chief executive Michael Jeffries commented: "We are delighted to form this long-term partnership with a major multi - national company. The contract is in line with our corporate strategy for international growth."

Anna Lagerkvist