A first in the Philippines and one of the first in the world, the “Site of the Future” recently launched by Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corporation (PSPC) in Silang, Cavite, is set to become a global blueprint for mobility stations focused on enhancing customer experiences, enabling more forms of transportation, and lowering carbon footprint through innovation.
The launch, attended by global and local leaders, introduced specialized site features and a new modern site design that put the needs of customers first as a benchmark for the rollout of mobility stations worldwide. It lays the foundations in promoting sustainability and inclusive mobility with site features like dedicated service areas for cyclists while supporting the local economy.
Istvan Kapitany, Shell International Petroleum Corporation’s executive vice president for downstream mobility, said that the Site of the Future will contribute further to Shell’s Mobility Ambition since Shell is already growing significantly in the country. “We need to be a force for good in the Philippines by bringing all the international standards that we have. We are not only going into changes but shaping the changes with world-class operations,” he said.
PSPC chairman of the board and senior vice president for mobility network Min Yih Tan said the Site of the Future lays the groundwork to improving what Shell can further offer to its customers. “Shell has invested consistently in mobility and the energy transition. This is more than a site opening; this is symbolic of our commitment of how we want to grow in the Philippines. This is not just a Site of the Future, but the mobility site of today. Anything that we do provides value not just to customers but to society from convenience of motorists and even decarbonizing, which is the hallmark of the future,” Tan said.
The emphasis on customer experience is evident in how the Site of the Future makes customers feel that Shell invites them not just to stop, but to stay and enjoy the best of what mobility stations have to offer. The customer-centric design is the result of Shell’s collaboration with international hospitality and retail design agency UXUS to give extra attention to convenience, sustainability, and well-being.
PSPC vice president and general manager for mobility Randy Del Valle described it as the Customer Experience of the Future. “Merging global expertise and local insights for the vision of the future makes it more than a fuel station but a destination. We are catering to the needs of people on the move from cyclists to pedestrians and even those at home with on-demand services. The Site of the Future is an example of how mobility can keep moving the Philippines forward,” he said.
One of the Site’s notable features is the cyclists’ al fresco area with specially designed stop-and-go bicycle racks which aims to encourage Filipinos to use active transportation.
Digital screens welcome customers and highlight key offers at a glance. Aside from essentials, food selections, and unique finds at Shell Select, the mobility station has partnered with popular food brands to satisfy food cravings. Digital payments and the Shell Go+ loyalty app likewise contribute to a seamless and more rewarding experience.
The site’s design is also energy-efficient and lowers carbon emissions of operations through solar panels integrated into the forecourt canopy, eco-bricks upcycled from used plastics that make up the walls and outdoor chairs and tables, and rain catchers that harvest water for watering plants and flushing toilets.
“It is the whole that is the sum of its parts. The combination of integrated offers is what is interesting and what we will take beyond the Philippines to the rest of the world,” Tan said.
Tan added that the Site of the Future in Acienda Silang is just the starting point with plans to establish five more Sites of the Future alongside Shell’s goal of opening more mobility stations nationwide. Their goal is to expand access to these features, offer service to more Filipinos, and help jumpstart the national economy with the improved mobility of people, products, and services.
“We acknowledge our integral role in powering progress. We move industries and build economies, which is why every Filipino on the move is at the heart of what we do,” Tan added.
The milestone launch was also attended by Shell Eastern Petroleum Pte Ltd. SVP for Mobility East Amr Adel who led the ribbon-cutting ceremony with representatives from sectors that support mobility and active transportation. Department of Transportation (DOTr) Assistant Secretary Mark Steven Pastor shared developments with regard to the national transportation roadmap and Bike Lane Network. Pieter Terpstra, Deputy Head of Mission from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the Philippines, likewise shared insights on how active transportation can be improved in the country. Silang, Cavite Mayor Socorro Rosario “Corie” Poblete also supported the event by committing to build on the Site of the Future’s mobility initiatives in the community.
