“Business As Usual” at Binghamton-Area Hess Stores

Those Hess signs at several stores across Broome County aren't about to vanish.

Hess Corporation has been making changes in its business operations and a company announcement resulted in many news reports suggesting the company brand soon would be gone at retail outlets it operates across eighteen states.

But Hess Corporation spokesman Dennis Moynihan today told WNBF News the company has "absolutely no plans" to close its stores.

Moynihan said the Hess divestiture of its retail stores is "in the early stage and will take some time." For now, it's "business as usual" at all Hess locations.

Hess Corporation on Monday announced it plans to get out of its so-called "downstream businesses" -- including retail, energy marketing and energy trading.

Moynihan said it's "too soon to know" exactly what will happen with Hess store locations as the company finalizes divestiture plans. Stores could be sold and ultimately operated by another owner but might continue to feature the "Hess" brand.

Moynihan said the brand is "strong and valuable" and will live "long into the future."

Hess closed some underperforming locations in Broome County, including retail sites in Vestal and Endwell, a few years ago.

The company closed its refinery in Port Reading, New Jersey, last week and it's selling off its terminals.

Moynihan said the Hess toy truck program, which has been an annual tradition for almost a half-century, will continue.