Next-gen stations underscore Shell's vision in sustainability and community

MANILA: Pilipinas Shell has launched its next generation of reliable, highly useful,  community-focused retail stations.

Customers typically consider retail stations to be the most identifiable and patronized touchpoints, as establishments on the forefront and the face for the Shell brand.

Pilipinas Shell has over 1,100 retail stations offering more opportunities, more than just being a venue for accessibility of fuel products.

Shell Country Chairman Cesar Romero said, “Every retail station has a social cause, but very few of our customers know that. We aim to contribute to society in the advocacies that we adopt and promote onsite, and by creating a gathering place where people can safely connect, while properly observing COVID protocols, and learn from each other.”

To date, the retail stations of Pilipinas Shell are set to evolve as sustainable stations that also meet the needs of local communities. This ensures that Pilipinas Shell provides what is significant to each community.

This customer-centered strategy is also applicable to how the stations have leveled up to address the challenges that have arisen due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the early part of 2019, Pilipinas Shell inaugurated Shell Mango, regarded as the first next-generation station situated in General Maxilom Avenue, Cebu City.

Before the launch of Shell Mango, Pilipinas Shell held focus group discussions (FGDs) among locals, to establish a station that is suitable for the needs of residents. It was also co-established with faculty and students from the University of San Carlos.

Shell Mango includes a Shell Helix Oil Change + Service Center, Shell Select and deli2go convenience store, and a PUV terminal. On its second floor, it also includes a freedom wall where customers can share their initiatives, food kiosks for selling homegrown produce, as well as a study and hangout spot for students.

The water and oil separator and double-walled tanks are well-sustained to guarantee site integrity.

New features were also included along with a rainwater collector and self-irrigating plant wall, enabling the station to utilize run-off water for plants located in the landscaped area.

Moreover, Shell Pook Ligaya, which is soon to launch in Diliman, Quezon City, also uses sustainable aspects like green walls, eco-bricks, LED lights, and solar energy panels to make the station more inviting and energy-efficient.

The next-generation retail stations are expected to be replicated nationwide to meet the needs of local residents and motorists while improving their well-being, enforcing safety guidelines, handling waste efficiently, and saving on electricity to minimize the total carbon footprint of the company.

Currently, over 50 stations across the country have already been solar energy-powered. They were also able to use paints for minimized nitrogen oxide as well as LED lighting and inverter innovations. These contribute to the global aim of Shell Retail to attain 50% carbon emissions for all areas.

Shell stations proactively implement health and safety protocols as a way of responding to the new normal amid the pandemic.

All forecourt service champions in retail stations across the country go through health evaluations before going to their workstations. They have also undergone training for effective disinfection procedures and they also follow stringent physical distancing. They are also required to wear masks. All water and air equipment, pumps, and other customer common sites like toilets, are frequently disinfected and cleaned.

At Shell Select and deli2go stores, the efficient and safe handling of food and other goods from reputable suppliers are considered.

Brand and Communications Manager for Retail John Aldwin Angeles said, “Sustainability has become key as the company expands, updates, and upgrades the retail network. By pursuing smart energy solutions, we hope to fulfill this ambition to reduce our overall carbon footprint significantly. We only have one planet. Shell balances harnessing the Earth’s energy and caring for it by ensuring that our retail stations are equipped to save energy and reduce waste.”

Furthermore, the company has collaborated with other enterprises like Gcash for contactless transactions. Shell lubricants can be bought on Shopee and Lazada while Shell fuels can be availed on Lazada. Partner food businesses have also resumed operations for delivery and take-out services.

Through the joint efforts of Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) and Mayani, organic fruits and vegetables are also accessible on pioneer 10 Shell Select areas and on the online platform of Mayani to support the income of partner local farmers.

Photo from Shell

Also read: Pilipinas Shell shuttering Tabangao refinery ‘permanently’