SHELL INTRODUCES EASYPAY
By Adnews Staff
Calgary-based Shell Canada introduced a new payment method called easyPay at 200 of its gas stations in Canada yesterday. The system uses a microchip and a short-range radio transmitter embedded in a tag that fits on a key ring. The microchip and transmitter communicate with a pump-mounted receiver that automatically bills a gas purchase to the customer's chosen credit card and disburses Air Miles. Shell is bringing easyPay to gas stations in Vancouver, Edmonton, Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal. The service, which will eventually roll out across the country, first launced in Calgary last fall. Customers can apply for a free easyPay tag online, at participating locations or through a 1-800 number. EasyPay is being promoted with an eight-week print, television and radio advertising campaign from J. Walter Thompson of Toronto.