The modern gas station has ceased to be a place where people come exclusively to fill their tanks with gasoline. Today, it is a complex multifunctional organism where you can not only refuel your car but also drink coffee, have a hearty meal, charge an electric vehicle, or simply rest on the way. It is precisely this vision that guided the OKKO network in opening two first complexes of a new format near Kyiv, combining advanced technologies, energy efficiency, and a well-thought-out customer experience.

Journalists from RBC-Ukraine tested the customer journey at the OKKO gas station in Hatne on their own experience and asked Vice President for Marketing and Network Development, Vasyl Dmytrev, how the company is transforming conventional gas stations into modern service spaces.

Two scenarios: speed or comfort

Developing the new format, the OKKO team asked themselves a simple question: what should a modern stop on the road be like? As Vasyl Dmytrev notes, the most valuable resource for a person today is time. Some want to refuel in a few minutes and continue on their way, while others want to take a break, eat, drink coffee, work, or spend time with family.

Therefore, the new format is based on two scenarios: maximum speed and maximum comfort.

The first scenario is designed for those who value every minute. To this end, the gas station operates a whole complex of services that allow saving time:

  • Fuel can be paid for via OKKO PAY directly at the fuel dispenser.
  • Separate self-service terminals for paying for fuel and purchases without waiting in line are installed inside.
  • For those who do not want to leave their car, the OKKO Drive service is available — ordering coffee or food through the window without searching for a parking spot or waiting inside.

For those planning to stay longer, the gas station offers a different scenario of stay. OKKO-working spaces — separate rooms where you can hold an online meeting, reply to emails, or work quietly on a laptop — are equipped for work. Open all-season terraces are provided for relaxation. For families with children, a play zone and a separate room for parents and children where you can change or feed a baby have been created.

Special attention is paid to barrier-free access. The gas station is designed so that it is convenient for all visitors to use, and it is also equipped with an inclusive restroom.

Revolution in food service

An important component of the new concept became the food service. If previously cafes at gas stations were perceived primarily as places for a quick snack, then in the new format OKKO is developing a full-fledged gastronomic direction — with the possibility of having breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

An open kitchen has become an important part of the new approach. Guests can see the entire preparation process — from ordering to serving the finished dish. The organization of processes is handled by the company's own digital system Smart Kitchen, which the company developed for over a year. In real-time, it distributes orders between the cash register, kitchen, and serving area, synchronizes internal processes, and also controls the filling of display cases and product shelf life.

After placing an order, the customer receives a number and sees its status on a large screen in the hall. When the dish is ready, it can be picked up in the digital serving zone, where the corresponding number is also displayed. Such an algorithm helps avoid confusion and speeds up service even during peak hours.

The range of dishes has significantly expanded and includes more than 150 items. The menu features Ukrainian, European, and Asian cuisines, first courses, salads, side dishes, meat dishes, WOK, pasta. The coffee card in Hatne includes about 150 items — from classics to author drinks. Coffee can be chosen either from a self-service coffee machine or prepared manually in dishes. There is also alternative milk — banana, coconut, almond, or lactose-free. For those who like something special — novelties like Pink Latte with beetroot or trendy Ube Latte with purple yam.

Energy autonomy

Solar panels integrated directly into the structure of the canopies at the gas station immediately catch the eye. They not only generate electricity but also replace traditional roofing material, becoming part of the architectural solution.

In Irpin, a solar power plant with a capacity of 69 kW is installed, in Hatne — 48 kW with the prospect of increasing to almost 100 kW. The company expects that during periods of maximum solar generation, such gas stations will be able to cover up to 50% of their own electricity consumption. Energy autonomy is considered one of the key directions for the development of the network.