Shell has partnered with PayPal to become the first UK petrol station chain to allow mobile payments at the pumps. Mobile payment at Shell is scheduled to be available later this year through apps on Android and iOS store.
Drivers will be able to use the service using the Shell Motorist App or the PayPal App. After driving into the forecourt the customer simply selects the corresponding pump on the app. The app then authenticates the transaction and the customer can then fill up and go. When refuelling is complete a receipt is automatically sent through to the phone, letting the consumer drive away. It is expected that the vast majority of Shell’s 1000 service station will offer the technology.
Michael Hominick, Retail Marketing Manager Retail at Shell UK says: “We’re committed to providing a fast, safe and secure service. We’ve listened to our customers and know they will benefit from this innovation. They will now have the flexibility and convenience of paying without having to leave their car. Those who want to go in store and pay or purchase other items will still be able to, with the benefit of reduced queues.”
Rob Harper, Director, Mobile Commerce at PayPal UK says: “Today we’re announcing a UK first – we’ve created a simple and secure way to use your mobile phone to pay at the pump nationwide. At PayPal, we’ve always believed people will use their mobile phones to pay if there’s a clear benefit. With today’s announcement, we’re offering drivers a faster way to fill up their car and pay, and get back on the road.”
8 Responses
Err, aren’t there signs all over petrol stations saying “Please switch off your mobile phone?”….
Sounds like a gimmick to me, surely it would be quicker to pay with your card at the pump rather than searching for the app and selecting which pump. Presumably if the other petrol manufacturers follow suit you would need a different app for each brand.
What if mobile coverage is poor or non existant at some stations?
Also a paper receipt is handy for business mileage. I cant be doing with trying to remember to print the receipt when I get home.
Too much hassle having to load the App, putting all the info in, waiting for confirmation etc. Would be easier to transfer the balance from Paypal to my bank account and use a card for payment.
Quote – “They will now have the flexibility and convenience of paying without having to leave their car”
I’m already out of the car filling it with fuel?! Am I doing this bit wrong? Should I be hanging out the window to fill up from now on?
Pay by Paypal and blow up your local service station. Sounds cool!