Puma Energy Namibia says it maintains its confidence in its market position despite Chevron Brands International LLC’s recent partnership with Bachmus Oil to expand its presence in the country.
Chevron Brands International LLC signed a long-term retail trademark licensing agreement with Bachmus Oil and Fuel Supplies to launch Caltex fuel retail outlets in Namibia.
Puma Energy Namibia Country Retail Manager, Charlene Oosthuizen, said the company is not concerned about increased competition, highlighting its well-established network and customer-focused innovations.
“To be honest, no, we’re not concerned. I think we have a very well-established network, and we continuously innovate, even though it’s a long process,” said Oosthuizen.
She emphasised that Puma Energy Namibia is focused on making necessary upgrades and investments in key areas to enhance its service offerings.
Oosthuizen pointed out that the traditional fuel station model is evolving, with a growing emphasis on convenience and additional services.
“In terms of just having a fuel station like in the older days, now you need to be innovative in terms of convenience. What else can you offer to create a one-stop shop for your consumers?”
She explained that the company’s strategic goals include offering a wide range of services at their stations, from ATMs and car washes to partnerships with quick-service restaurant brands.
“You need to make [the station] as nice as possible for all your consumers out there,” she said.
Oosthuizen also referenced Puma Energy’s broader regional initiatives, such as the “Go Africa” campaign, which underscores their commitment to the Namibian market.
“We are here to stay, and some people come and go, but Puma is here to stay,” she remarked, adding that the company remains confident in its long-term strategy and plans.
According to Oosthuizen, Puma Energy Namibia’s approach “is to stay ahead of the curve by focusing on innovation and partnerships that enhance customer experience. We are confident in what our plans are, and we have a strategy that we are working towards.”
This comes as Puma Energy Namibia plans to establish five service stations in rural areas within the country as a form of bringing services closer to the people and expanding its business.
Puma’s General Manager Adell Samuelson had earlier said the company is also targeting rural areas as part of the existing moratorium on issuing licences for new service stations in urban areas.
Puma is constructing Lube Bays at Kuisebmond, Walvis Bay and Soweto Market, Windhoek, where it aims to offer free engine oil, coolant and battery water level check-ups as part of further efforts to diversify service delivery.
These will be completed and operationalised before the end of this first quarter.
In addition, the company has partnered with Woermann Brock and Hungry Lion at its various retail sites across the country.
Before, Puma Energy Namibia had a partnership with OK Franchise, of which the existing retail stores will continue to operate as the new deal won’t have an effect, said Samuelson.
Puma further plans to install a free WiFi network at 10 sites in the first phase, with all 60 sites targeted by year-end.
“This will serve as a pilot project to test this free offering to customers. The plan is to extend the service to all 60 Puma Energy Namibia sites by the end of 2024,” she said.
Puma Energy operates in 15 countries and has a retail network of 687 outlets. In terms of fuel supply for vehicles, it has 1,946 sites and 108 aviation fuel at airports.
In Namibia, Puma supplies aviation fuel at Ondangwa, Eros and Hosea Kutako International Airport.
