JX Nippon Oil creates new consumer-focused business model

JX Nippon Oil & Energy Corp.. which operates the ENEOS gas station chain in Japan, is creating a new business model which is more focused on meeting the needs of individual customers. One option the company is considering under the new consumer-focused business model is providing an electricity delivery service for owners of electric vehicles where gas station employees would take chargers directly to the drivers. The company has already launched a web site with information for smartphone users on the locations of nearby service stations. Twitter and Facebook functions will also be added. As part of the new approach, JX Energy’s retail division will change to a more customer-centered strategy, such as creating inside spaces in retail stations for mothers and their children and other customers so they can relax while their cars are being serviced. “We will roll out more integrated service stations by leveraging our predecessors’ strengths,” said Isao Matsushita, executive vice president. (August 9, 2011)