Gow2, the retail division of Staatsolie, festively opened its first fully self-service station on Mahony Avenue yesterday. The location, formerly known as Amirkhan pump station, was converted into a 24/7 self-service point with an investment of about $1.8 million. Customers can get immediate help with questions about the fueling process via an accompanying instructional video at the pump and an intercom system.
Social contribution
During the reopening, checks were presented to three local institutions: the Wisma Kairijawatie Boarding School and O.S. Maretraite each received $5,000, while the Siswa Tama Boarding School received a symbolic gift of $10,000. With these donations, Gow2 supports renovation works that improve the living conditions of the youth organizations.
Ready for scaling up
Anand Jagesar, Director of State Oil, explained that several Gow2 stations will be upgraded. "Depending on the location, some refueling points will switch partially or completely to self-service. Mahony Avenue will soon be followed by Tourtonnelaan, then Saramacca and Third Road," Jagesar said.
Eddy Fränkel of Staatsolie's management team stressed the need for modernization: "The station dates back to 1969 and no longer met international standards. The new design will soon even offer a 'tank-and-chill' concept with an on-site catering point."
Technical innovation
In addition to upgrading the tank system, fundamental civil engineering work was done. Old storage tanks were replaced, and drainage was thoroughly addressed to prevent flooding during heavy showers.
Changing habits
Marc Refos, Asset Manager of Marketing at Gow2, acknowledges that self-service takes some getting used to for the Surinamese public. "During the pilot phase, we noticed reluctance: people are used to being helped. But with fuel cards for businesses, we have already taken a step toward self-service."
Future plans and market share
Gow2 is looking to expand its network to increase coverage; currently retail market penetration is 57 percent, while overall market share is 33 percent. Says Jagesar, "We want Gow2 stations to be more sunnily spread out so customers never have to drive far."
Finally, Gow2 offered the government technical assistance on road maintenance. Refos: "We maintain the traffic circle and the area under the bridge, but for the potholes on Van 't Hogerhuys Street, our mandate is lacking. However, we have bitumen and can help, provided sand and gravel are provided."
