By Truckstop and travel center operators seeking to elevate their diesel sales have a lucrative opportunity to enhance the customer experience and provide premium branded fuel. Participants at NATSO Connect, the annual industry gathering, highlighted key strategies to streamline operations and cater to the needs of professional drivers.
Streamlining Transactions
NATSO, representing a vast network of over 20,000 truckstops and travel centers across the U.S., emphasized that optimizing customer flow is essential. The shared objective of both drivers and operators is to minimize wait times at the fuel island, underscoring the importance of expediting transactions.
Efficiency with Technology
Implementing high-flow dispensers can significantly reduce filling time. Moreover, facilitating seamless payment processes for drivers utilizing fuel cards is critical. Equipping diesel dispensers with QWERTY-style alphanumeric keypads streamlines data entry, allowing drivers to swiftly complete transactions without leaving the fuel island.
Embracing Innovation
Offering Additional Services
Incorporating bulk diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) services on the fuel island presents an added value proposition for truckstop operators. Equipping the area with high-speed DEF dispensers caters to the growing demand for this essential emission-reducing solution. Typically sold in large containers akin to windshield wiper fluid, DEF availability underscores a commitment to environmental responsibility.
By prioritizing customer experience and embracing innovative solutions, truckstop operators can differentiate themselves in a competitive market while bolstering diesel sales.
Diesel Sales Driving Revenue Growth for Truckstop Operators
Diesel sales are a key driver of revenue growth for truckstop operators, outpacing gasoline sales due to the higher margin and predictability of business from truck drivers.
ExxonMobil’s Premium Diesel Offering
ExxonMobil showcased its “Synergy Diesel Efficient” fuel at NATSO Connect, emphasizing benefits such as improved engine power, injector cleanliness, and corrosion protection. The premium diesel is said to boost fuel economy by an average of 2%.
Increased Volume with Branded Signage
Converting to feature “Mobil Diesel” or “Exxon Diesel” branded signage can lead to an increase in volume by 11%-15% for commercial outlets and 4% for retail gas stations, according to the company.
Expansion of Synergy Offering
ExxonMobil currently offers Synergy at over 900 commercial truck diesel pumps and nearly 9,000 retail sites, providing truckstop operators with the opportunity to enhance their offerings and attract more customers.
Future-Proofing Operations
In preparation for the future, truckstop operators are encouraged to consider layouts that allow for the integration of alternative fuel sources like electric chargers and hydrogen, as highlighted by NATSO.
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