Convenience Retailers Not Benefiting From Higher Gasoline Prices

Minnesota TV station highlights the tough times of petroleum retailers, who face higher risks as gas prices rise, along with oppressive credit card swipe fees.

March 01, 2011

MINNEAPOLIS - An article by Minnesota??s KARE11.com highlighted the plight of petroleum retailers who, despite rising gasoline prices, are not realizing any financial benefits.

"I wish I was rolling around in money," said Minnesota station owner Rick Bohnen, explaining that as consumers pay higher prices, so does he.

Bohnen estimated his profit per gallon at around 12 cents and said it remains the same, even when gas prices are a dollar or two lower. However, he said his risk rate is higher with increased gas prices.

"With higher gas prices also comes higher crime, more people try to steal gasoline," Bohnen said, adding that a drive off can cost him as much as $100.

"You are on the lookout because every theft is a little more money than it used to be," Bohnen said.

The article also highlighted the high cost of swipe fees for station owners: Bohnen said he pays more than a hundred dollars each day in card fees and that he paid more than $123,000 in fees in 2010.

For more on the ins and outs of the motor fuels marketplace, check out the 2011 NACS Fuels Report.

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