A HOST of major retailers are expanding their their gas station operations – despite the fact EVs are gaining popularity.
Costco, Walmart and other stores are becoming significant brands in the gas business – thanks to extended hours, more capacity and an increase in infrastructure.
Indeed, Walmart is set to open over 45 new gas stations across the US this year, as reported by QZ, with Amanda Cantu, a Walmart spokesperson, adding: “With these openings, we’ll have more than 450 locations across 34 states.
“Walmart fuel and convenience stations operate at stores without Murphy USA stations.
“Our one-stop shops offer low prices at the pump, and Walmart+ members can save up to 10 cents per gallon.”
This strategy was backed by Joe Camberato, CEO of NationalBusinessCapital.com, who said: “The world still runs on gas, not EVs.
“People talk as if the switch to EVs is happening overnight, but big industry changes like this take decades.
“In the meantime, there’s still plenty of money to be made in the fuel business. Change is coming, but it’s not happening as fast as people think.”
Furthermore, Costco announced plans to extend the hours of its members-only fuel centers – with most now open until 10 pm – compared to the previous 9 pm closing time.
“Generally, our stations are now staying open an hour later than they did before, with some even opening earlier,” said Costco CEO Rob Vachris.
While Dollar General’s entry into the fuel business has been slower, the brand started with a pilot program in Alabama – now expanding to over 40 stores.
Placer.ai’s foot traffic data shows that competition among retailers has increased in that regard.
“Retailers are looking for ways to encourage customers to choose them over competitors, and adding gas services is one way to achieve that,” said Elizabeth Lafontaine, director of research at Placer.ai.
“Our data shows that visits between convenience stores and other essential retailers have increased since the pandemic, which may be why retail chains are trying to reclaim some of that market share.”
International business strategy expert and professor at Wichita State University,Usha Haley, said: “Walmart’s move into fuel is an effort to compete with Costco’s highly successful gas business, which accounts for about 12% of its total sales.
“However, Walmart’s gas stations are open to all customers, unlike Costco and Sam’s Club, which require memberships.
“This could expand Walmart’s reach and increase revenue.”
Costco, though, has followed Walmart’s approach to US tariffs by asking Chinese suppliers to absorb costs – although many suppliers have resisted, citing slim profit margins.
Walmart has hinted it may need to pass tariff costs on to consumers – which could hurt sales – but gas revenue could help offset those losses.
“As gas prices are expected to initially drop under current policies, Walmart aims to use fuel revenue to cushion tariff-related losses – before prices likely rise again,” Haley said.
How To Pump Gas
There are several steps you can take to safely pump gas.
Find Your Pump
Drive up to a pump, aligning your car’s fuel tank with the nozzle. Look for the fuel indicator arrow on your dashboard or the manual to know which side your gas tank is on.
Pay for Your Gas
You can either pay at the pump with a credit/debit card or pay inside. If paying inside, give the attendant your pump number and the amount you want to spend.
Open Your Fuel Lid
Use the lever or button inside your car to open the gas tank lid, or open it manually if your car doesn’t have a lever. Unscrew the gas cap.
Pick the Right Nozzle
Grab the correct nozzle from the pump (regular, premium, or diesel). Insert it securely into your gas tank.
Select Fuel Grade
Choose the fuel grade (usually regular, mid-grade, or premium). Check your car’s manual for the recommended fuel type.
Start Pumping
Pull the trigger to begin pumping. Most nozzles have a lever that locks in place so you don’t have to hold it.
Wait for Automatic Shutoff
Keep an eye on the pump. It will automatically stop when your tank is full. You’ll hear a click when this happens.
Remove the Nozzle and Close the Tank
Carefully remove the nozzle, return it to the pump, and make sure the gas cap is tightly secured.
Get Your Receipt
If you paid at the pump, decide if you want a receipt. If you do, print it; if not, finish the transaction.
Reset Your Odometer
Inside your car, reset the fuel odometer to track your mileage. Usually, turning your car back on will reset it.
Source: AAA
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