How Petroleum Retailers Evolve: Global Partner's Take on the Next Fueling Era скачать в хорошем качестве

How Petroleum Retailers Evolve: Global Partner's Take on the Next Fueling Era

In this episode of Field Frequency, we sit down with James Cater, Senior Director of Sustainability at Global Partners, to explore what happens when petroleum retail meets electrification. James shares his “molecules to electrons” origin story, from launching one of the largest EV make-ready programs in the country at Eversource Energy to helping Global thoughtfully integrate EV charging into its retail footprint. This conversation dives into the operational, financial, and cultural realities of bringing EV charging to traditional fueling locations. From dwell time economics to demand charges, from brand control to customer loyalty, James explains why EV infrastructure is not a threat to fuel retail, but an evolution of it. The takeaway? The future forecourt is not about choosing gasoline or electrons. It is about designing an experience that makes customers want to stay. Guest Overview Conversation with James Cater, Senior Director of Sustainability at Global Partners Focus on petroleum retail and EV charging convergence From Utility to Retail Background at Eversource launching major EV make-ready programs Transition to building EV charging strategy within fuel retail Who Global Partners Is Integrated midstream/downstream fuel company Retail brands include Alltown Fresh and Honey Farms EVs as Evolution, Not Competition Charging positioned as another fuel type Selective, strategic deployment rather than “chargers everywhere” Customer Experience & Dwell Time EV drivers stay longer, increasing in-store conversion Premium retail offerings align with EV demographics Safety, lighting, and amenities are critical Ownership vs. Hosting Chargers Leasing to CPOs as an entry strategy Shift toward owning chargers to control brand and operations Economics & Incentives Utilization drives long-term value NEVI, state, and utility incentives help de-risk projects Demand charges are a major profitability factor Scaling & Site Strategy Larger port counts and faster charging becoming standard New-to-industry builds offer cost and infrastructure advantages Industry Sentiment Many retailers remain cautious Innovation depends on leadership willing to look ahead