Coles Express is an Australian chain of fuel and convenience stores. The business venture and corresponding fuel discount offer was launched in July 2003 in response to the similar offer by rival Woolworths Limited some years earlier, proving attractive to shoppers. Coles Myer purchased the retail business of Shell Australia multi-site franchisees in 2003 for A$94 million. Shell is the exclusive supplier of fuel products, leases the service station property to Coles, and maintains the presence of the “pecten” and other Shell branding on the price board and other signage. Approximately 249 independently franchised Shell service stations, particularly in country areas, remain unassociated with Coles Express, however the company has an agreement with 19 outlets where the fuel discount offer is accepted.
