Gas prices have been a major financial discussion and hot button issue ever since Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The BP oil spill then occurred in 2010, putting more emphasis on domestic and foreign oil. Basically, gas has gotten high, almost to a ridiculous level. Now that the economy is improving, I don't see gas going back to $2/gallon anytime soon, if ever.
However, QuickTrip (QT) has thrown a monkey wrench into the gas competition. They are not really based in the South. However, over the past two years, they have been opening everywhere. Their gas was so low that the government made them simmer down because it was causing danger since folks would line up and literally wreck turning into QT for the cheaper gas.
Gas giants such as BP and Exxon are not as relevant now. However, many gas stations have been lowering their prices whenever a QT opens up nearby. They must stay competitive.
Here are four notable gas companies and stations that are giving QuickTrip the best competition.
1. Pilot/Flying J's
These truck stop oriented stations and plazas have some of the lowest gas. Plus I've found when you use debit or credit, many of them will not charge you an extra fee. There is typically a restaurant within these plazas, so that gives them a slight edge. And even the ones that aren't "truck stops" cater heavily to truckers.
2. Wal-Mart/Murphy USA
Wal-Mart is a world empire, and a hallmark for low prices. They want to let QT and any other competitor know that they offer a plethora of services. One of the biggest is their gift cards. If you put at least $25 on one and use it at the pump, it knocks off up to 15¢ per gallon.
3. Kangaroo.
Kangaroo stations seem to be every where and are well established. They bought out Texaco not too long ago, and are usually at convenient locations. Many also have restaurants in their stores, most commonly Subways. Kangaroo is still in it to win it.
4. Marathon
Marathon also offers many of the conveniences listed previously, plus many stations accept Bi-Lo fuel perks. Their convenience and customer service also matches that of QT, and some of their stations are open 24 hours.
Who will win the so-called gas wars? One thing is for sure: it is hard to resist those 49¢ slushies at QT.
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