Season 15 Episode 7

Nokwanda Khumalo on why petrol stations are becoming convenience hubs

05 October 2026 · 21:46 min

Petrol stations are evolving into convenience hubs as changing consumer habits reshape what South Africans expect when they stop on the road.

Nokwanda Khumalo, GM: Mobility & Convenience at bp Southern Africa, explains how the traditional forecourt is expanding beyond petrol and diesel to offer… food, retail, banking, grooming, and other everyday services.

She discusses why convenience retail has become strategically important, including bp’s focus on fresher food and partnerships such as Capsicum Culinary Studio and Legends Barber. Khumalo also explains how loyalty programmes, digital payments, customer data, AI, and personalised offers are changing the way bp engages with consumers.

The conversation explores bp’s investment in new and upgraded South African service stations, opportunities for local small businesses, and how the company is preparing for electric vehicles, hybrids, alternative fuels, and new energy solutions.

Looking ahead, Khumalo expects fuel to become only one part of a much broader mobility and convenience destination.

0:00 Intro
1:22 How South African consumers are changing
2:47 Redefining forecourt convenience
3:57 Why food matters more
5:56 Technology, data and loyalty
10:01 The power of partnerships
13:46 Investing in South Africa
16:18 Preparing for new mobility

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