Controversy as Shell Sells Gas Stations in Indonesia, Its Fuel Still Available

KatadataOTO – Surprising news comes from Shell Indonesia. They have just sold all their gas stations (Public Fuel Filling Stations) in the country.

Through its official website, the British-based manufacturer has approved the transfer of ownership of its gas station business in the country.

“The buyer will be a new joint venture between Citadel Pacific Limited and Sefas Group,” Shell wrote today, Friday (23/05).

Shell further stated that the transfer of ownership of their business includes the gas station network as well as fuel (BBM) (Bahan Bakar Minyak) supply and distribution activities in the country.

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“This does not include Shell's growing lubricants business in Indonesia,” they continued.

It was further explained that after this ownership transfer process is complete, Shell will still be present in Indonesia.

This will happen through their licensing agreement. It allows the licensee to use the Shell brand in accordance with standards.

This allows the licensee to benefit from the brand's value. For instance, all fuel products will continue to be supplied by Shell.

Therefore, the public can still buy Shell fuel at a number of gas stations in the country.

“The business operations of Shell gas stations will continue as usual until the completion of this ownership transfer process, which is expected to happen next year,” they continued.

On the other hand, Susi Hutapea, Vice President of Corporate Relations for Shell Indonesia, stated that the ownership of their gas station business will not change as a result of the ownership transfer announcement.

“The team serving customers at the Shell gas station network will not change, and the network's business activities will continue to run as usual,” Susi said, as quoted by Antara.

Susi also ensured that they will continue to provide the best service, so that the public can feel safe and comfortable when buying Shell Super and other products.

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Previously Rumored to Be Leaving

As a reminder, rumors of Shell's departure from Indonesia have been circulating for a long time. This was marked by the closure of nine gas stations operating in North Sumatra.

The above step was taken on June 1, 2024, leaving some parties surprised by the decision.

However, at that time, Shell denied the widely circulating rumors. They claimed to remain committed to serving customers in the country.