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Operating a Cluster

Bring more power to you retail business by becoming a Shell Retailer.

  • The Power of Shell

    Moving forward together

    Shell sign

    Our Brand

    • One of the most instantly recognized brands in the world
    • More than 45,000 service stations in more than 90 countries
    • A Health, Safety, Security & Environment leader

    Our Fuel and Lubricants

    • World leader in Premium fuels – cutting-edge fuel technologies
      developed with Ferrari
    • World leader in sales of branded lubricants – Pennzoil® and Rotella®* T

    Our Loyalty Alliance

    • Long-standing alliance with the most successful loyalty program
      in Canada, the AIR MILES®† reward program

    Our Marketing

    • World-class convenience store offer - Shell Select program
    • Best-in-class national TV, radio, print, direct mail and
      online media advertising

    Our Support Team

    • The employees of Shell share a passion to offer the best products and services – from service to consumers, to improved payment options, to supply reliability, to the fuel itself!

    Shell and the Retailers strive to deliver a consistent Customer Value Proposition every day and leverage the Shell brand to its full extent.

    Our Vision is to be the Best Fuels Retailer in the World!

    Read more in the Power of Shell brochure (PDF, 1253 KB) - opens in new window

  • A New Business Opportunity

    The Cluster (Multiple-Site) operation

    Shell service station

    Run your business with one of the world’s leading brands and operate multiple existing Shell retail facilities grouped together to form a Cluster.

    A Cluster can range from 2 to 6 locations.

    Shell’s new retail business opportunity provides many benefits to a potential Business Operator:

    • Shell’s proven operating system
    • Existing structures and businesses to expand your business portfolio
    • No franchise fee
    • No capital assets to acquire
    • Minimal investment with strong return-on-investment potential
    • Low risk and predictable cash flow operating model
    • Major maintenance, utilities and insurance paid by Shell
    • Comprehensive convenience store offer with Shell’s Select program
    • A complete Retailer training and coaching programs
    • Business support by a world-class team including a direct relationship with a Shell Territory Manager
  • The Cluster Retailer

    Maximize your potential

    Shell man in uniform

    Review the Cluster Retailer requirements to ensure a successful match!

    Business Investment

    The total investment required ranges from $300,000 to $600,000 and includes:

    • Ownership of convenience store inventory
    • Operating capital
    • Security deposit
    • Training fee

    A referral to a Financial Institution that understands the Shell Cluster program is available as part of the application process.

    Your business investment will depend on the number of sites in the Cluster and vary based on site characteristics and geographical location.

    Business Experience*

    • Minimum of 5 years in a front-line management role in the Retail or Service industry with Profit & Loss responsibilities
    • Management experience with multiple units or direct supervision of 15 employees or more would be considered a strong asset

    * Candidate and/or their designated Operator(s) can fulfill the above criteria.

    Personal Business Profile

    • Committed to safety at all levels
    • Passionate about Customer Service
    • Strong capacity to interpret financial statements
    • Executes programs within guidelines and strives to exceed the standards
    • Lead with the talent to obtain results through others
    • Has the vision to drive growth
    • Comfortable with technologies
    • Communicates well in either English or French

     Please note: Ownership of other non-competing businesses is allowed

  • The Deal

    Deliver a consistent Customer Value Proposition every day

    Handshake

    As a Cluster Retailer with Shell, you are an independent corporate company that manages the business and all related aspects.

    You will bring your skills, business experience, enthusiasm and commitment. Shell supplies the service stations, the fuel, a proven global operating model, a comprehensive Retailer Training program, and ongoing support. In short, we will strive to grow the business!

    As an independent Business Operator:

    •  You will receive commission on all fuel sales as well as profit from all convenience store and car wash sales, and can see growth in your first year.
    • You will be expected to pay agreed royalties to Shell.
    • You will deliver the Customer Value Proposition as established by Shell.
    • You own the store inventory and set your own prices up to a maximum. Core product range within the convenience store is defined by Shell.
    • You grow the business and exceed estimated sales while controlling your costs, and your income will increase as a result.
    • You employ and manage your own staff.

    Your earnings potential will depend on several factors including size, characteristics and location of the Cluster.

  • Did you know...

    Shell in Canada Firsts

    2006 - First national fuel company to offer TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline across Canada

    2001 - First Canadian oil company to offer cashless and cardless payment at the pump, with the introduction of Shell easyPAY

    1989 - First Canadian oil company to completely stop selling leaded gasoline

    1987 - First toll-free telephone customer service line: the Shell Helps Centre

    1972 - First major Canadian oil company to open a convenience food store to serve customers better

    1970 - First Canadian oil company to sell unleaded gasoline: Shell Ultra Unleaded

    1968 - First self service gasoline stations in Canada

    1958 - First tunnel car washes in Canada, and still one of the largest car wash operators in the country

    1955 - First ignition-control ingredient in gasoline: TCP