Many consumers may feel loyal to national fuel brands like Chevron or Shell, leaving unbranded gas stations to face unique challenges. At H&S Energy, we welcome challenges and provide C-store owners and managers with many resources and opportunities to effectively compete while offering unbranded fuel options. If you’re looking for ways to make your unbranded gas station profitable and increase traffic to your locations, our experts at H&S Energy are here to help.
7 Ways Unbranded Gas Stations Can Stay Competitive
1. Competitive Pricing
One of the most significant advantages unbranded gas stations have over their branded counterparts is the ability to offer lower prices. Because these stations are not tied to a specific supplier or locked into long-term contracts, they have more flexibility to shop around for fuel at lower prices. As part of H&S Energy’s Unbranded Fuel Solutions Program, savvy station owners can significantly boost their profits by leveraging multiple fuel suppliers’ competitive pricing options.
Tip: Monitor local competitors’ prices and adjust yours accordingly. Also, make sure your station is listed in apps like Gas Buddy, allowing drivers to find the cheapest fuel nearby.
2. Focus on Customer Experience
While price is a major factor, it’s not the only one. A clean, welcoming environment paired with excellent customer service is one of the most effective ways for unbranded stations to stand out from the competition. Friendly staff, well-maintained restrooms, and a stocked convenience store can go a long way in ensuring customer loyalty.
Tip: Train employees to greet every customer with a smile, maintain the cleanliness of the station, and proactively offer assistance. Small gestures like providing free air for tires or having windshield cleaning supplies can also make a big impact.
3. Build a Strong Local Presence
Many unbranded stations are small, family-owned businesses that have the opportunity to foster personal relationships with their customers. Sponsoring community events, supporting local charities, or simply engaging with customers on social media can create loyalty that goes beyond fuel prices.
Tip: Get involved in local events or causes. Sponsor a youth sports team, offer discounts to local schools or businesses, or host community car washes to attract local traffic.
4. Offer Unique Products and Services
Differentiation is key to staying relevant in a market filled with major chains. While big-name stations tend to offer the same products across the board, unbranded stations have the freedom to tailor their offerings to meet the needs of their specific customer base. This could mean offering unique, region-specific items such as locally sourced snacks or specialty drinks or even adding an attached restaurant or coffee shop to turn your station into a destination rather than just a stop for gas.
Tip: Consider adding services like a car wash to help build a loyal customer base. Adding a new service line can seem daunting, but with H&S Energy’s car wash solution, we walk you through every step of the process.
5. Embrace Technology
Unbranded gas stations can benefit from technology just as much as larger stations. Offering payment methods like mobile apps for paying at the pump, contactless payment options, and digital purchase kiosks can streamline and enhance the customer experience.
Tip: Make sure your station is listed on popular navigation apps and fuel-finding services. Consider offering digital rewards or discounts to encourage repeat business.
6. Maintain Flexibility with Fuel Supply
One advantage of being an unbranded gas station is the ability to source fuel from various suppliers, providing the flexibility to find the best deals to pass along to your customers. With the Unbranded Fuel Solutions Program at H&S Energy, you can leverage our strong supplier relationships to find the best fuel deals and ensure consistent fuel availability. Being able to adapt to changes in the fuel market is key to keeping your station stocked and your customers happy.
Tip: Diversify your fuel sources and always have a backup supplier in case of shortages or sudden price increases.
7. Provide Eco-Friendly Options
As more drivers switch to electric vehicles or seek out eco-friendly fuel options, unbranded stations can stay competitive by offering alternatives. Installing EV charging stations or offering biofuels can attract a growing customer base interested in reducing their carbon footprint.
Tip: If installing EV chargers or switching to biofuels isn’t an option right away, consider offering environmentally friendly products in your convenience store, such as biodegradable car wipes or reusable water bottles.
H&S Energy Has Your Unbranded Fuel Solutions
While unbranded gas stations may not have the immediate recognition or marketing muscle of their big-name competitors, they can remain successful by focusing on their strengths: competitive pricing, personalized customer service, and the flexibility to adapt to the market’s changing needs. At H&S Energy, we can help you implement the right strategies to build a loyal customer base while optimizing your profit margins. Contact us today to see how our Unbranded Fuel Solutions Program fits your business goals.