Driven to Find the Lowest Price in Town

Saving a few pennies at the pump has become a national pastime.

June 13, 2011

CINCINNATI - Americans have become obsessed with shaving off a few cents from the price of gasoline, USA Today reports. While last week the cost of a gallon of regular gasoline dipped to $3.72, drivers are still seeking ways to save at the pump.

GasBuddy assists motorists in finding the lowest price of gasoline in 185 localities. "We estimate we're helping consumers save about $84 million a month, or about $1 billion a year," said Jason Toews, co-founded of the website and mobile phone app.

ExxonMobil??s Speedpass card is running a two-month promo that includes a 15-cent savings per gallon up to 100 gallons. Grocery stores are upping the ante, too, with rewards programs linked to cents-off at the pump. Bi-Lo, Giant Food, Kroger, SaveMart, Stop & Save and Winn-Dixie have joined Shell Oil to offer a dime-per-gallon discount for every $100 spent in the store.

"Chains are coming up with new ways of getting people to shop. When you can get discounted gas at today's prices, people go nuts," said NACS spokesman Jeff Lenard.

Shell dealers have been happy about the cross-promotion. "It's not only good for consumers, but it's bringing in new customers that might not have experienced the brand," said Dan Little, marketing manager for Shell fuels. "Everyone's looking for a deal now."

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