The fuel card industry is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by advancements in technology, shifting market trends, and regulatory changes. This certainly makes it challenging. However, a sure-footed guide through this dynamic yet demanding landscape is for fuel card issuers to take advantage of strategic partnerships with payments technology providers that can point the way forward.
That means navigating a sector that’s not only going through the digital transformation but also a material one, as for example fleets of vehicles switch to hybrid, electric, hydrogen or other power sources. And payment technologies enable more flexibility to add revenue-driving initiatives and improve customer experience and loyalty. As well as future-proofing their business in the process.
This calls for a technology provider who can offer qualities like adaptability, innovation, industry knowledge, regulatory expertise, and scalability – along with understanding the nature of a true collaborative partnership. This might sound like a lot to aspire to, but let’s look at those all-important elements in more detail.
The ability to adapt to new technologies and trends
A forward-thinking partner will not only stay up to date with the latest developments in the payments industry but also be agile enough to adapt their solutions to new technologies and market trends. Look for a partner that is proactive in adopting new payment methods, standards, and technologies, ensuring that your business remains competitive and relevant.
Over the 4 years I have been with Enfuce and over the 7 years since Enfuce began, the number of new solutions that we have launched and brought to market is proof that we keep up with whatever comes our way. That’s more important than having someone who has all the solutions for today – it’s having someone you can trust to keep up to date and develop the solutions whatever the requirements are in the future.
Linda Buss, Senior Product Manager at Enfuce
With more than two decades in payments, we talk with Linda about how the industry has evolved, and what Enfuce brings to the table for businesses looking to keep up with change. Read more.
A track record of innovation and continuous improvement
Innovation is crucial in the fast-paced world of payments technology. Seek a partner with a history of developing ground-breaking solutions – Enfuce were the first to build a payment solution approved by regulators to meet strict financial rules and compliance in the cloud, for example. Plus, continuously improving their offerings. This demonstrates a commitment to working at the cutting edge and providing the best possible products and services for their clients. A partner with a strong innovation culture will be more likely to collaborate effectively with your business to develop tailored solutions that meet your unique needs and help you stay ahead of the competition.
Check out our webinar with Monika Liikamaa (Enfuce) and Filippa Jennersjö (OKQ8) and learn from their discussion how OKQ8 modernised its fuel card programme in the transformation towards sustainable mobility with Enfuce as its trusted partner.
A culture of partnership and collaboration
A strong partner understands that collaboration is the key to success in today’s dynamic market. Look for a provider that views your relationship as a true partnership and is committed to working closely with you to understand your business’s specific needs, challenges, and goals. This collaborative approach will help you develop tailored solutions that drive growth and competitiveness in the industry.
A collaborative partner will be eager to brainstorm, workshop ideas, and co-create solutions with your team. This open-minded approach allows both parties to combine their expertise and experience to develop innovative, future-proof solutions that address your business’s unique challenges.
Enfuce has now established a track record with the customer case examples provided above: OKQ8 and ST1. They are a trusted partner for Fleet & Fuel. With Enfuce, you find a good partner who has already established a leadership reputation in the sector.
By working with Enfuce we’ve broadened our portfolio, launched new services in several countries and were among the first in the Nordics to launch Apple Pay
Minna Lehikoinen, CEO, St1 Finance
Deep knowledge of both the fuel and payments industries
Other payment providers offer features such as access to line-item data and the ability to restrict card spending at the product level, which are norms in the fuel card industry and must be met. Your technology partner should have a thorough understanding of the fuel card industry, including its nuances, trends, and opportunities. This knowledge will enable them to develop tailored solutions that address your business’s unique requirements.
Alongside this fact, it’s important to note that for fuel retailers, payments are not your core business. A partner that can draw on experience across different facets of the payments industry will be ideally positioned to apply best practices and lessons learned from industries that are further ahead in their modernisation process. For instance, large retailers and supermarkets have been expanding their offerings to include core products like credit payments, buy now pay later (BNPL) options, and insurance products to enhance their share of the wallet and expand customer lifecycle engagement.
An understanding of the regulatory landscape and compliance requirements
Regulations, such as the updated Payment Service Directive (PSD2), are a time-consuming and potentially expensive hurdle for businesses looking to update their payment systems or increase the scope of their services. A knowledgeable partner will be well-versed in the relevant regulatory frameworks and will help you navigate these complexities in such a way that doesn’t impact your core business.
Being prepared for the new PSD3 rules, which could be finalised by 2025 and in effect by 2026, will require a partner who is ready to support the move from a Directive to a Regulation, as the European Commission looks to standardise payments across the EU.
Infrastructure that can ease transformation and grow with your business
Adaptable infrastructure with the flexibility to accommodate your evolving business needs is crucial in a changing industry landscape. Your technology partner should also have the infrastructure and resources to scale their solutions as your business expands. This includes the ability to handle increased transaction volumes, support new markets, and add new features or functionality as needed. Adaptable and scalable infrastructure will enable your business to both adjust to a changing industry as well as grow into new opportunities, without the need for costly and time-consuming system overhauls.
Solutions to meet your specific needs
A partner with proven solutions and features for the fuel card market will enable you to get to market with your requirements swiftly and with confidence. Also look for a partner that is willing to work closely with you to develop customised solutions tailored to your business’s specific requirements. This may include developing new features, integrating with your existing systems, or tapping into new revenue opportunities. A flexible and solutions-oriented partner will ensure that your payments technology infrastructure evolves with your business, helping you stay competitive and efficient in an ever-changing industry.
Learn more about Enfuce Fleet & Fuel solution.
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