Custom Product Development: How We Helped Convenience Stores Cut Fuel Theft
At Baillie Fabricating & Welding, our deep understanding of precision sheet metal fabrication and CNC machining gives us a helpful perspective in custom product development. We regularly collaborate with customers to design and develop products that solve their unique challenges.
One recent project with a major convenience store chain shows how our capabilities come together in innovative solutions. This client was facing a serious fuel theft issue and turned to our team for help. Learn about our pair of custom solutions that are deterring thieves and simplifying repairs.
The Challenge: Organized Fuel Theft
Several of our customers’ fuel pump dispensers were being targeted by large-scale and coordinated fuel theft. Thieves were breaking into internal wiring in fuel pumps and manipulating the system to dispense fuel without requiring payment. They were able to drain hundreds of gallons in a short time.
The stores had little visibility into what was happening until it was too late. At that point, they faced lost revenue and costly repairs.
Designing a Better Solution
The company needed a way to deter thieves from accessing the pump wiring. Other vendors had tried, but their solutions hadn’t proved effective enough.
That was when they decided to contact Baillie Fabricating & Welding. With our custom product development experience, CAD modeling services, and insight into fabrication, we were able to take a new approach. The customer provided a sample pump, and our team got to work. We fabricated several prototypes, tested them hands-on, and collaborated closely with the customer to iterate.
As the customer saw our progress, they even asked us to create a second solution: a repair bracket to reinforce damaged doors.
The Result: Two Effective Products and Significantly Reduced Theft
We ultimately developed both products. Our durable fuel shield effectively blocked access to wiring while allowing maintenance personnel to service the pumps as needed. It has helped the convenience stores significantly decrease theft. In fact, field technicians have told us how excited they are to install these simple components.
In addition, our door reinforcement bracket has not only drastically reduced their repair expenses, it’s allowed the fixes to progress far faster. Previously, many convenience stores faced long waits for replacement doors, leaving them at risk of further theft. Now, with our simple kitted product, they can quickly have an easy-to-install solution.
Together, these products offer protection and a repair system, designed for real-world effectiveness and simplicity.
Partner With Baillie Fabricating for Your Next Challenge
This project demonstrates how our fabricating services make our custom product development services more effective. Whatever problem you face in your business, we’re happy to discuss how we can help you create a unique solution.
If you’re interested in purchasing our fuel shield or our door reinforcement bracket, please contact the Baillie Fab team.
Whether you need product development or metal fabrication, Baillie Fabricating & Welding is ready to be your manufacturing partner. Request a quote today to begin your next project with us!
