Gulfstream Energy has launched Vaal Truck Inn (VTI) truck stop in South Africa, a first by an independent fuel seller in the country
The stop is situated 115km from Johannesburg on the N3.
Shane Jegels, Chairman and CEO, Gulfstream Energy, said, “With truck stops traditionally branded and supplied by leading oil companies, this is a significant milestone for local industry.
“Retail is an important channel to market for Gulfstream Energy, now and in the future. Our partnership with VTI is significant, substantially growing our footprint in this sector. But it’s about so much more than just the supply of petroleum products.”
“Internationally we see the petroleum industry opening up to increased participation by independent wholesalers,” Jegels said, adding that it’s not about competing with the larger oil companies, but rather about carving a niche as independent wholesalers, working cooperatively with the larger players for the benefit of the country’s fuel consumers.
“Our primary objective is the safety and convenience of our customers. Our association with Gulfstream Energy enables us to continue delivering on this,” said Adriaan Odendaal, co-owner of VTI.
In addition to its fuel products, Gulfstream Energy has also been working with VTI to implement an integrated Point of Sale (POS) system. This will enable customer refuelling to take place in a controlled, secure and managed way.
“One of the greatest advantages is the price benefit we receive,” added Odendaal.
The VTI executive said that it is one of only three truck stops on the N3 able to cater to Truck Fuel Network (TFN) customers. TFN, a private payment solution marketed around the country, makes use of a card to fill up with fuel in a managed and secure way providing tighter controls and management of refuelling for transport companies.
VTI’s 24/7 facilities include secure parking, a restaurant, revamped cloakroom amenities, which include separate ablutions for female drivers, ATM, speed point and airtime facilities and driver wellness clinic.
The next few months will also see Gulfstream Energy expand its offering to include cleaner burning fuel Diesel 50PPM.
