Systems approach for evaluating the transitioning oil and gas commercial market

Abstract

The United States retail industry will continue to create value for Supermajors with branded retail networks. Regulation requiring efficiency improvements and the distribution of lower emission fuel substitutes will require Supermajors to evolve to maintain their competitive positions in the market. Supermajors ability to reliably produce energy at scale and their growing capabilities in optimizing their business through digital applications uniquely positions them to succeed in the future. Supermajors should look at regulation as an opportunity to grow profitability. Supermajors ability to understand lower emission energy systems in the context of their legacy assets will be critical to delivery financial results in the future. Technological advancements among lower emission transportation energy substitutes, like electricity and hydrogen, present an opportunity for Supermajors to diversify their fuel offerings to meet future transportation energy needs. Supermajors should be cautious of early investment in these alternatives considering the financial risk but should recognize the potentially greater risk of failing to act in time. Supermajors' retail networks provide the optimal platform to improve their corporate image. Supermajors consistently highlight the actions they are taking to develop lower emission alternatives and the contributions they make to the communities in which they operate. However, Supermajors should also consider targeting the customer experience offered by their brand considering the success Independents have experienced by employing that strategy. This appears to be a more effective approach compared to placing emphasis on fuel quality advantages.