Yes. Buying a gas station is a good investment especially when you take into account the fact that the demand for fuel in America is constant and not going down anytime soon.
Truth be told, the whole country more or less runs on gas. People always have to drive to get to work, and our trucks have to haul goods across the country.
Industry reports have it that gas stations are a $250 billion-a-year industry and there are more than 120,000 gas stations in the country.
Note that over 80% of gas stations also possess a convenience store attached to them and this makes them an attractive option for those looking to pick up things really quick.
If you want to purchase a gas station or you are on the verge of signing a gas station purchase or franchise agreement, keep in mind there are a wide range of legal factors that you need to take into consideration before you start.
Reasons a Gas Station is a Good Investment
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Steady Demand
Just as it was noted above, the whole country more or less runs on gas. This simply means that gasoline is a necessity for most Americans who have to depend on automobiles for their daily movement and activities.
Keep in mind that this demand for fuel guarantees a steady stream of customers for gas stations, and this translates to a solid income source.
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Resilience to Economic Downturns
Gasoline consumption according to industry reports has continued to remain relatively stable even when the economy is suffering from downturns.
Although it is possible for consumers to want to cut back on discretionary spending, reports have it that they will continue to use their vehicles for very important activities, and this helps to sustain the demand for fuel.
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Inelastic Pricing
Gasoline is categorized as an inelastic product, and this goes to explain or prove that changes in price tend to have little or no effect on demand.
One thing you need to understand is that customers will continue to purchase fuel even when prices go up, and this proves the resilience and viability of gas station businesses.
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Diversified Revenue Streams
Note that over 80% of gas stations in the United States also have a convenience store attached to them and this makes them an attractive option for those looking to pick up things really quick.
These convenience stores offer additional revenue streams aside from fuel sales. You will find that these convenience stores most often feature items such as snacks, beverages, as well as other essential items, and this works to improve the overall profitability of the business.
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Prime Locations and Accessibility
One thing that has remained constant in the success of this business is location. Stations strategically positioned along busy highways, close to residential areas, or where they are accessible from commercial centers are known to draw in more customers. Accessibility and visibility are very important especially when comes to driving foot traffic to a gas station.
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Franchise Opportunities
When it comes to buying a gas station, note there are numerous routes you can take. Note that you can choose to invest in a franchise or purchase an independent gas station.
You need to take great care when evaluating your options especially since they influence the future actions you will take like pricing, location, and general objectives.
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Technology Integration
Keep in mind that infusing modern technologies, such as mobile payment systems and loyalty programs, can in many ways boost customer experience as well as loyalty.
Gas stations that have learned or adopted technological advancements are known to be more prepared and better positioned to draw in and retain good-paying customers.
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Government Regulations and Stability
One of the primary things to note when looking to buy a gas station is the fact that the petroleum industry is subject to a wide range of regulations and they all work to guarantee safety, environmental compliance, and fair competition.
Although regulations can come with their own challenges, they as well contribute to a stable operating environment, while also doing away with the possibility of market volatility.
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Historical Profitability
Reports over the years have shown that well-managed gas stations have demonstrated profitability over time. Buying a gas station can be a very profitable investment as long as you have the passion to work hard and grow.
Gas stations are known to provide a basic necessity as well as the possibility of additional income through secondary services like a repair facility or a small store.