Viva Energy is poised to become the single largest petrol and convenience retailer in Australia when the acquisition of the Coles Express sites announced today, are added to the current Viva Energy network.
The acquisition of the Coles Express sites is subject to regulatory approval, but if approved will see Viva Energy’s strategic play for integrated fuel and convenience take a great leap forward.
“This is an exciting step for Viva Energy that will enable us to further extend our network, invest in new and innovative convenience offers across our stores, and enhance our loyalty and digital programs to simplify the way our customers transact with us”, said Scott Wyatt, Viva Energy’s Chief Executive Officer.
“The pandemic has changed the way people work and how they shop. They are shopping more locally, and want more convenience and a wider range of quality products and services. In the future, customers will also be looking for convenient electric vehicle recharging options while they are on the road, and in time we can also expect to see hydrogen refuelling facilities at major highway service centres.
“Our nationwide network of more than 700 stores is ideally placed to meet these evolving needs and we are excited about the opportunity to expand and grow our fuel and convenience business with the acquisition of Coles Express and the retailing capability and customer service which is delivered by about 6,000 team members across the country.
“By bringing our two businesses together we will be better placed to make the investments and innovations which will be necessary to deliver more value to our customers and drive our future success. This will see the company transition to being a fully integrated Retailer serving about 300,000 customers every day to meet their energy and convenience needs.
“Our relationship with Coles spans almost 20 years and we are delighted to continue in partnership with them following this acquisition. While the Coles Express brand will eventually be replaced, customers will be able to continue to redeem their Coles Shopper Dockets and earn Flybuys points, and in time we plan to broaden the range of loyalty and digital offers to provide even more value to our customers. The company will continue to retain the Shell brand.”
Elisha Radwanowski BCom (HRM&IR)
ACAPMA
