Shell intends to sell its French petrol stations, Les Echos reports - Finance news and analysis from Global Banking & Finance Review
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Shell intends to sell its French petrol stations, Les Echos reports

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on May 12, 2026

1 min read

· Last updated: May 12, 2026

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Shell to Sell 60+ French Petrol Stations, Seeks Buyer by Q3 2025

Shell’s Plans to Exit French Petrol Station Market

Overview of the Sale

PARIS, May 12 (Reuters) - London-listed oil major Shell intends to sell its French petrol stations, Les Echos newspaper reported on Tuesday, citing documents the company shared with employees and suppliers.

Scope of Operations in France

The company has 60-odd petrol stations on French highways, operated by other companies, to which the oil company supplies fuel and provides other services for a fee, according to the report.

Financial Performance

The business booked an operating profit of 108.5 million euros ($127.53 million) in 2025, the report added.

Timeline and Transaction Details

Expected Buyer Search and Deal Finalization

The company told workers' representatives it expects to find a buyer in the third quarter and finalize a transaction in early 2027, Les Echos reported.

Shell’s Response

Shell spokespeople in Paris and London did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment.

Currency Exchange Rate

($1 = 0.8508 euros)

Reporting Credits

(Reporting by Inti Landauro; Editing by Rashmi Aich)

Key Takeaways

  • Shell is preparing to exit its French motorway retail fuel operations involving about 60 stations on major routes.
  • The division generated €108.5 million in operating profit in 2025, underlining its financial significance.
  • A buyer is expected to be found in the third quarter of 2026, with transaction closure anticipated by early 2027.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many petrol stations is Shell selling in France?
Shell is planning to sell over 60 petrol stations located on French highways.
When does Shell expect to find a buyer for its French petrol stations?
Shell expects to find a buyer in the third quarter, with the transaction finalizing in early 2027.
How profitable is Shell's French petrol station business?
According to reports, Shell's French petrol station business booked an operating profit of 108.5 million euros in 2025.
Who operates Shell's petrol stations on French highways?
The petrol stations are operated by other companies, with Shell supplying fuel and providing other services for a fee.
Did Shell respond to media requests regarding the sale?
Shell spokespeople in Paris and London did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment.

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