My multiple sources confirm Shells plan is to completely exit the northeast market by the 4th quarter or 2017, and concentrate on the more profitable other areas of the country.
Once the Motiva split is complete, the most under-performing terminals will be put up for sale first with the others to follow.
The Saudis didn't want these terminals, nor did Shell, but shell took them with the intent to unload them, and raise some cash.
In terms of marketing, what profitable areas of the country are you talking about? The entire SE, save LA and FL, were integrated markets from Port Arthur and LA refineries but will be 100% under Motiva control. There are 2 west coast refineries and it is widely known that Shell is actively trying to sell Martinez. The Anacortes refinery has a major competitive disadvantage because it is the only refinery in PNW with no rail yard and can't use the much cheaper feed stock from the interior of the continent. Shell has been working hard to get the permit but to date has been unsuccessful. The SW US has always been a supply disaster and been very difficult markets for Shell. So, it begs the question, why in the hell would they want to be in US marketing anywhere?