Q8 is teaming up with Danish foodtech company Noahs to revamp its service stations in Belgium and Luxembourg. This partnership kicks off in the fall with five pilot locations and aims to expand to 75 sites.
This move shows Q8’s commitment to transforming from a traditional fuel retailer to a more versatile destination. As fuel demand shifts and customers increasingly expect convenient, digital services, companies across Europe are trying out new retail formats.
At the new stations, compact, modular kitchens will offer a variety of Noahs’ food brands. Customers can order meals, snacks, groceries, and essentials through self-service kiosks or apps, blending the service station experience with home convenience.
Noahs’ model is flexible. It allows for quick menu changes and optimization for speed and quality, all without needing extra space or staff. In Denmark, locations using Noahs have reported an impressive 370% increase in food sales within six months, primarily from new, tech-savvy customers.
Sarah Pillen, Q8’s Shop & Dealer Performance Manager, explained that this partnership aims to enhance their food offerings and attract the growing number of electric vehicle drivers, who often spend more time at charging stations. Digitalizing their food services will help create new revenue streams and adapt to changing customer needs.
Initially, the Noahs kitchens will operate independently from Q8’s existing digital platform, allowing for a quick launch. The goal is to combine the platforms later, enhancing the customer experience within Q8’s loyalty ecosystem.
Daniel Baven, CEO of Noahs, likened their vision to what Spotify did for music. He emphasized the importance of service stations in this evolving landscape, aiming to compete with restaurants and supermarkets in a fully digital space.
Ultimately, the goal is to transform service stations into digital marketplaces that connect food and grocery needs seamlessly. The pilot in Belgium and Luxembourg will help fine-tune the concept for the local market before wider implementation.
This shift highlights a broader trend in the convenience sector, where retailers are increasingly looking to enhance customer experience through digital solutions. According to a recent survey by McKinsey, 70% of customers now prefer shopping online due to convenience, a trend that continues to shape the future of retail.
For more insights on this evolving industry, check out reports from McKinsey.