The precise number of gallons of gas a gas station sells a day will depend on a good number of factors. However, on average, a well-managed gas station in the United States will sell around 2,000 to 4,000 gallons of gas per day.
Howbeit, it is important to point out that gas stations situated in places that have high traffic, for instance, close to highways or in busy urban areas, will have the opportunity to sell much more, and could go past 10,000 gallons a day. Meanwhile, smaller gas stations situated in rural locations will sell less, even as little as 1,000 gallons per day.
Factors That Determine the Volume of Gas Sold Daily in a Gas Station
-
Location
One of the first things to note is the fact that a gas station situated along busy highways or major roads will benefit massively from high visibility and accessibility, and will draw in more motorists. In the same way, gas stations located in rural areas or places with less traffic might have issues seeing consistent customers.
Aside from that, being close to complementary businesses like auto repair shops, fast-food restaurants, or grocery stores will work to boost traffic for the gas station. Being located close to infrastructure like airports, bus terminals, or tourist attractions can also drive up business sales.
-
Competition
The level of competition around the gas station will most definitely impact the amount of gas a gas station can sell in a day. Note that a gas station that is amidst multiple other stations will have to contend for customers with these other businesses, and this will often give rise to price wars that will eat up profit margins.
In those hostile environments, consumers are known to be much more price-sensitive, preferring to patronize stations that have better prices or the most value via loyalty programs.
Similarly, a gas station located in a place with less competition, perhaps in a rural area or an underserved urban region, might benefit from higher sales volumes as a result of being one of few alternatives.
-
Pricing Strategy
Same as with any other service business, the pricing strategy of the gas station will go a long way to determine its sales volume especially when you consider the fact that pricing strategy impacts customer behavior.
Keep in mind that gas stations that provide customers with competitive pricing will most definitely sell more gas. However, those businesses must ensure a good balance between the right pricing and maintaining profitability.
Gas stations should do well to leverage dynamic pricing strategies, making adjustments to their pricing based on factors like time of day, day of the week, and fluctuating wholesale fuel costs.
Aside from that, some stations tend to provide customers with discounts or rewards programs that further encourage them to come back.
-
Brand and Reputation
Note that popular, well-established brands like Shell, ExxonMobil, or BP, which customers believe only carry top-grade fuel will sell more due to brand loyalty, even if the station’s prices are a little higher than competitors.
Keep in mind numerous other things can boost the reputation of a gas station. This includes things like cleanliness, customer service, and overall experience.
Keep in mind that a station renowned for its friendly service, properly maintained pumps, and clean restrooms will enjoy having repeat customers, and this will lead to higher sales volume.
-
Amenities and Services
A gas station that has a convenience store that provides customers with the opportunity to buy snacks, drinks, or even groceries while they refuel, can draw in more customers.
In the same way, stations that provide car washes, air pumps, vacuum stations, or oil change services will as well attract customers who want one-stop solutions for their automotive needs.
-
Seasonal and Economic Factors
It is important to note that within summer months, for instance, travel and tourism tend to heighten, and this means more gas consumption.
Keep in mind that gas stations situated close to vacation spots, national parks, or along major travel routes will indeed witness massive increases in sales within those periods.
Another thing to consider is economic conditions especially since consumers might have the will to travel more, and this will mean better demand for gas.
Similarly, during recessions or periods of high fuel prices, consumers might be discouraged from traveling but rather choose to move with public transportation or switch to more fuel-efficient vehicles.
-
Operational Hours
Note that the period the gas station stays open will also determine the amount of gas the station will be able to sell. As such, gas stations that stay operational 24/7 will be able to sell more, especially if it is located in areas close to airports, industrial zones, or major highways.
In the same way, stations that operate limited hours will not be able to sell as much as businesses that stay open all day. For a good number of stations, especially those that are situated in locations with high traffic, the cost of staying open around the clock can be covered by the additional sales generated during off-hours.
-
Fuel Supply and Availability
Also, keep in mind that the supply and availability of products will impact the amount of gas a station can sell at any given time. This proves that things like supply chain disruptions, natural disasters, or geopolitical issues, will mean less gas sold.
Also, note that establishments that run out of fuel or have to deal with exorbitant price hikes will also lose customers to competitors who are better prepared in terms of consistent supply and pricing.
Aside from that, the sort of fuel being sold (e.g., regular, premium, diesel, or alternative fuels) will also in many ways determine sales. Ideally, a station that provides a vast array of fuel options for different vehicles will draw in a wide range of customer base.
-
Marketing and Promotions
Putting in place the right marketing and promotional strategies will indeed work to enhance a gas station’s sales. As such, gas station owners or operators are advised to put in place well-tailored strategies like discounted fuel days, rewards programs, or tie-ins with local businesses to draw in new customers as well as retain existing ones.
A gas station can collaborate with a local coffee shop to make available a discount on fuel with a coffee purchase. Also consider leveraging digital marketing, such as social media promotions and email newsletters, to ensure that the station can draw in younger, tech-savvy customers.