Shell has announced that it is partnering with PayPal to become the first fuels retailer in the UK to offer mobile payment at pumps nationwide.

It told its annual dealer conference that mobile payment via apps on smartphones is scheduled to be available later this year and will enable customers to pay for their fuel at the pump.

Consumers will be able to use the service through either the Shell Motorist App or the PayPal App. After driving into the forecourt the customer simply selects the pump on the app. The app authenticates the transaction and the customer can fill up and go. When refuelling is complete a receipt is sent to the phone, letting the consumer drive away, safe in the knowledge the transaction was a success.

Following a trial in 2013, Shell will be piloting the service for invited Shell Drivers’ Club customers in April, with plans to roll it out nationwide later in 2015.

Retail marketing manager Michael Hominick said: "We’re committed to providing a fast, safe and secure service. We’ve listened to our customers and know they will benefit from this innovation. They will have the flexibility and convenience of paying without having to leave their car. Those who want to go in store and pay or purchase other items will still be able to, with the benefit of reduced queues."

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