In a notable development for how drivers pay at the pump, Alfa-Bank has teamed up with the Gazpromneft gas station network and the Podeli buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) service to bring installment online payments to gas stations. The update was shared by the bank through its official channels, signaling a broader push toward flexible payment options in everyday purchases.
For the first time in Russia, customers can choose to pay for fuel in installments directly at gas stations. The method works through Gazprom Neft’s mobile app, integrated with the Podeli service. This arrangement lets motorists split the cost of refueling, paying a portion upfront and deferring the remaining amount to be settled later in a structured plan.
The option appears at checkout as a payment method. When refueling, the customer is asked to pay only 25% of the total cost immediately, with the remaining balance divided into three equal installments every two weeks. This setup provides a convenient way to manage larger fuel purchases without tying up cash flow all at once.
Eligibility is broad: the service is available to users who hold any bank card issued by a Russian financial institution. After initiating a refueling transaction, the user receives a preliminary notification indicating the forthcoming debit for the completed purchase, helping to keep budgeting predictable and transparent.
It is worth noting that Alfa-Bank’s partner program also includes the Share service, which stands as the first BNPL solution in Russia to offer installments for both online and offline purchases. The core advantage of BNPL and similar bank installment plans lies in avoiding traditional interest charges and additional fees, along with rapid processing that typically requires no extensive documentation or formal loan agreements. The absence of a separate loan contract makes the payment flow smoother for both merchants and customers.
As of today, the Share network connects with more than 40,000 partners, and the number continues to grow. This expanding ecosystem reflects an ongoing shift in how consumers approach everyday spend, with more merchants embracing flexible payment options to attract and retain customers who value convenience and cash flow management. In the Canadian and American contexts, similar BNPL and instalment programs at fuel stations or other convenience retail points have gained traction, pushing retailers to adapt digital wallets and payment apps to support seamless, on-the-spot financing. Customers should stay informed about any regional variations in terms, fees, and eligibility, and consider how such services fit into broader financial planning and budgeting strategies. The evolving landscape suggests that more banks and merchants are likely to collaborate on installment offerings, making it easier for drivers to purchase essential goods without compromising immediate finances. This momentum signals a future where flexible payment options become a standard feature at many points of sale, especially for large-ticket items or combined purchases at service stations and other retail environments. (Source: Alfa-Bank)