Shell plc (NYSE: SHEL) is a global integrated energy company that operates across the full oil and gas value chain as well as in developing lower-carbon energy solutions. The company traces its roots to the early 20th century merger of Royal Dutch Petroleum and Shell Transport and Trading, and today it is organized to explore for and produce hydrocarbons, process and refine them, manufacture petrochemicals, and market fuel, lubricants and related products under the Shell brand around the world.
Shell’s principal activities include upstream exploration and production of oil and natural gas, integrated gas operations including liquefied natural gas (LNG), and downstream refining, supply and marketing. The company also manufactures and sells petrochemicals used as feedstocks for industries and consumer products, operates global trading businesses for energy commodities, and provides fuels and convenience retailing at service stations. In recent years Shell has expanded offerings in power, hydrogen, biofuels, electric vehicle charging and other energy solutions as part of a broader strategic response to changing energy demand.
Shell has operations and commercial activities in many countries across Europe, the Americas, Asia and Africa, serving retail consumers, industrial customers and governments. Its global footprint includes upstream production assets, refining and chemical complexes, LNG facilities, trading hubs and branded retail networks. The company is subject to international and local regulatory regimes and coordinates large-scale projects and logistics to supply energy and chemical products worldwide.
Shell is led by an executive team responsible for implementing corporate strategy and reporting to a board of directors. In January 2023 Wael Sawan was appointed chief executive officer, reflecting the company’s focus on both traditional hydrocarbons and the development of new energy businesses. As a publicly listed company, Shell continues to balance operational performance with investments in lower-carbon technologies and the evolving needs of global energy markets.