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The Benefits of Visiting a GA Station Near You

If you’re someone who owns or operates an airplane, you know how important it is to keep your aircraft in top condition. One of the easiest ways to do this is by regularly visiting a GA station near you. Not only will this help ensure that your plane is in peak performance, but it also offers a number of other benefits. Let’s take a closer look at some of the advantages of visiting a GA station near you:

Convenient Location

One of the biggest benefits of visiting a GA station near you is the convenience factor. Since these stations are typically located at or near airports, they’re easily accessible and can be quickly reached from wherever you’re flying from or to. This means that you won’t have to travel far out of your way just to get your aircraft serviced.

Professional Maintenance Services

Another advantage of visiting a GA station is that they offer professional maintenance services for your aircraft. Whether it’s routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations, or more complicated repairs like engine overhauls or avionics upgrades, these stations have experienced technicians who are trained to work on all types of aircraft.

Quality Fuel and Lubricants

In addition to maintenance services, most GA stations also offer high-quality fuel and lubricants for your aircraft. This means that when you fill up at one of these stations, you can trust that you’re getting top-notch products that will help keep your plane running smoothly.

Expert Advice and Support

Finally, visiting a GA station near you also gives you access to expert advice and support from knowledgeable professionals in the aviation industry. Whether it’s guidance on how best to maintain your aircraft or recommendations on upgrades or modifications that could improve its performance, these experts can provide valuable insights and assistance.

In conclusion, if you own or operate an airplane, there are many benefits to regularly visiting a GA station near you. From convenient location and professional maintenance services to quality fuel and lubricants and expert advice and support, these stations offer a range of advantages that can help keep your aircraft in top condition. So if you haven’t already, consider finding a GA station near you today.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

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Gas Station Business Plan Template

Gas station business plan.

You’ve come to the right place to create your Gas Station business plan.

We have helped over 10,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their gas stations.

Below is a sample business plan for a gas station to help you create each section of your gas station business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Accelerate Station is a startup gas station located in Dallas, Texas. The company was founded by Bill Johnson, an experienced gas station manager who has gained valuable knowledge on how to run a gas station during the past ten years while working at GAS&GO MART. Now that Bill has experienced managing a gas station, he is ready to start his own company, Accelerate Station. Bill is confident that his business management skills, combined with his understanding of the gas station industry, will enable him to run a profitable gas station of his own. Bill is recruiting a team of gas station personnel to help manage the day-to-day complexities of running a gas station business – sales and marketing, supplier relations, financial management, and customer support.

Accelerate Station will provide gasoline, diesel, electric vehicle charging, automotive parts and accessories, and a small snack assortment. Accelerate Station will be the go-to gas station in a busy intersection located in the heart of the Dallas metropolitan area. The company will be the ultimate choice for convenience and customer service while offering the lowest prices in the area.

Product Offering

The following are the products and services that Accelerate Station will offer:

• Electric Vehicle Charging
• Air (for tires)
• Automotive Parts Assortment (lights, batteries, etc.)
• Automotive Accessories (license plate holders, air fresheners, etc.)
• Snacks & Beverages (vending machine access)

Customer Focus

Accelerate Station will target private and commercial vehicle drivers in Dallas. The company will target individuals that need to refuel as part of their commute to work and commercial drivers fueling up for a long trip. No matter the customer, Accelerate Station will deliver fast and courteous service and the lowest prices in the area.

Management Team

Accelerate Station will be owned and operated by Bill Johnson. Bill is a recent graduate of Texas University with a degree in business administration. He also has over ten years of experience working as a gas station manager for another local company. Bill will be the chief executive officer for the gas station. He will oversee the staff’s activities and day-to-day operations.

Bill has recruited a fellow business school graduate, Stephen Smith, to be the company’s chief operating officer and help oversee the gas station’s business operations. Stephen will handle supplier relationships, logistics, and budgeting for the business.

Bill and Stephen have hired a marketing professional, Mary Miller, to become a member of the Accelerate Station management team. Mary is a graduate of the University of Maine with a bachelor’s degree in marketing. Bill and Stephen rely on Mary’s expertise to execute the company’s marketing plan and advertising strategies.

Success Factors

Accelerate Station will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• High-traffic location that is visible and accessible to passersby from multiple major streets and highways.
• Accelerate Station uses the latest technology to make it easy and convenient for customers to gas up quickly. Customers can pre-pay using the company’s app, at the pump, or in person at the central kiosk. Providing multiple payment options gives more customers an opportunity to use their preferred method of payment easily.
• The company’s leadership team has built a network of supplier relationships that will allow Accelerate Station to purchase gasoline for lower prices than their competitors. Accelerate will then be able to pass this cost-savings on to customers.

Financial Highlights

Accelerate Station is seeking $880,000 in debt financing to launch its gas station business. The funding will be dedicated towards securing the location and purchasing gas station equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated towards three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff and marketing expenses. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Gas station build-out: $480,000
• Gas station equipment, supplies, and materials: $220,000
• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, utilities): $160,000
• Marketing costs: $10,000
• Working capital: $10,000

The following graph below outlines the pro forma financial projections for Accelerate Station.

Company Overview

Who is accelerate station.

Accelerate Station is a newly established gas station company in Dallas, Texas. Accelerate will be the first choice for drivers in Dallas for its convenient location, top-notch customer service, and low prices on gasoline, diesel, and electric vehicle charging. The company will serve drivers of private and commercial vehicles of all types and sizes.

Accelerate Station will be able to guarantee the lowest prices in the area thanks to its leadership team members’ existing supplier network connections. The company offers customers the option to pay using a convenient app, at the pump, or through the central kiosk. Customers can also purchase automotive parts and accessories, and grab a quick snack for the road at the station’s convenient vending machines.

Accelerate Station History

Accelerate Station is owned and operated by Bill Johnson, an experienced gas station manager who has gained valuable knowledge during his ten year tenure working at another local gas station. In addition to his hands-on experience, Bill has recently graduated from Texas University with a degree in business administration. Now that Bill has gained the experience and know-how he needs to manage a gas station, he is ready to start one of his own. Bill has begun recruiting a team of gas station personnel to help manage the day-to-day complexities of running a gas station business – sales and marketing, supplier relations, financial management,  and customer support.

Since incorporation, Accelerate Station has achieved the following milestones:

• Registered Accelerate Station, LLC to transact business in the state of Texas
• Has begun negotiations to purchase the property and reached out to potential builders to construct the station
• Reached out to numerous contacts to include gasoline and diesel suppliers and electric vehicle charging station providers to begin obtaining supplier contracts
• Began recruiting a staff of gas station attendants to work at Accelerate Station

Accelerate Station Services

• Automotive Accessories (license plate holders, air freshener, etc.)

Industry Analysis

The gas station industry in the United States is valued at an estimated $138B with over 13,800 businesses in operation and more than 162,000 employees nationwide. Included in the gas station industry are businesses that sell automotive fuels such as gas and diesel, automotive parts and services (such as car washes), and other non-automotive goods and services. Many gas stations also co-locate with a convenience store to drive more traffic to their business. These gas stations are part of the larger industry of “gas stations with convenience stores”, which is valued at $649B in the U.S. with over 122,000 operating businesses and 1.0M employees across the country. In addition to gasoline and automotive services, these businesses also sell groceries and other convenience goods.

Gas station market demand is dependent on the volume of drivers on the road (both personal and commercial). Profitability typically depends on industry operators’ ability to secure high traffic locations and purchase their gas for the lowest prices possible.

A growing challenge for gas station industry operators is the rise in electric vehicles. To remain competitive, many industry operators have begun offering electric vehicle charging options in addition to traditional gasoline.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

Accelerate Station will target private and commercial vehicle drivers in Dallas. The company will target individuals that need to refuel as part of their commute to work and commercial drivers fueling up for a long trip. Accelerate will be able to accommodate vehicles of all types and sizes including diesel, hybrid, and electric vehicles. No matter the customer, Accelerate Station will deliver fast and courteous service and the lowest prices in the area.

The precise demographics for Dallas, Texas are:

Customer Segmentation

Accelerate will primarily target the following customer profiles:

• Drivers of private vehicles
• Drivers of commercial vehicles
• Drivers of gasoline vehicles
• Drivers of diesel vehicles
• Drivers of electric vehicles

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Accelerate Station will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below.

GAS&GO MART

GAS&GO MART is one of the largest and oldest commercial gas stations based in Dallas, Texas. Established in 1955, the company currently operates twenty stations throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area. GAS&GO MART sells gasoline and diesel, automotive parts, and snacks. GAS&GO MART aims to deliver quick service for customers on the go. The company uses a stringent inspection process to ensure all of its products are the best quality. GAS&GO MART’s team of experienced gas station attendants are available to assist customers as needed.

Speedy Gas Station

Speedy Gas Station is a small gas station catering to local drivers in Dallas, Texas. Speedy Gas Station operates one location in a busy retail district. The company provides gasoline, diesel, and a self-service car wash. Speedy Gas Station is family owned and operated by former race car drivers who know the importance of fast service. The gas station attendants are able to help customers check their oil, tires, and other small automotive issues. The company prides itself on providing the fastest service and quality products.

Express Gas Station

Express Gas Station is a trusted Dallas, Texas-based gas station that provides superior gasoline to drivers in Dallas. The company offers a spacious layout that can accommodate the largest of commercial vehicles and is equipped with an electric vehicle charging station. Express Gas Station operates a single location near the outskirts of Dallas and is in the process of opening two additional locations within the city.

Competitive Advantage

Accelerate Station will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Accelerate Station will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Customers can pre-pay using the company’s app, at the pump, or in person at the central kiosk. Providing multiple payment options gives more customers an opportunity to use their preferred method of payment easily.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Accelerate Station is as follows:

Social Media Marketing

The company’s marketing director will create accounts on social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube. She will ensure Accelerate maintains an active social media presence with regular updates and promotional content to incentivize customers to use the company’s services.

Professional Associations and Networking

Accelerate Station will become a member of professional associations such as the American Gas Station Association, Dallas Gas Station Managers Society, and the Texas Diesel Association. The leadership team will focus their networking efforts on expanding the company’s supplier network.

Print Advertising

Accelerate Station will invest in professionally designed print ads to display in programs or flyers at industry networking events. The company will also send direct mailers to local residents and businesses that are likely to frequent the gas station.

Website/SEO Marketing

Accelerate Station will utilize the in-house marketing director that designed the print ads to also design the company website. The website will be well organized, informative, and list the products and services Accelerate is able to provide. The website will also list information on discounts and promotional giveaways.

The marketing director will also manage the company’s website presence with SEO marketing tactics so that when someone types in a search engine “Dallas gas station ” or “gas station near me”, Accelerate Station will be listed at the top of the search results.

The pricing of Accelerate Station will be moderate and lower than its competitors so customers feel they receive value when purchasing the company’s products and services. Accelerate will also offer discounts to regular customers.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Accelerate Station.

Operation Functions:

• Bill Johnson will be the CEO of the company. He will oversee the gas station staff and day-to-day operations. Bill has spent the past year recruiting the following staff:
• Stephen Smith – Chief Operating Officer who will manage the budgeting, supplier relationships, and logistics.
• Jennifer Willams – Bookkeeper who will provide all accounting, tax payments, and monthly financial reporting.
• Mary Miller – Marketing Director who will oversee all marketing strategies for the company and manage the website, social media, and print advertising campaigns.
• Micheal Jones – Quality Control Manager who will oversee all inspections of products, equipment, and processes.

Milestones:

Accelerate Station will have the following milestones complete in the next six months.

12/1/2022 – Finalize contract to purchase property

12/15/2022 – Finalize employment contracts for the Accelerate Station management team

1/1/2023 – Begin build-out of the gas station and purchase equipment, materials, and supplies

1/15/2023 – Begin networking at industry events and implement the marketing plan

2/15/2023 – Finalize contracts with suppliers

3/15/2023 – Accelerate Station officially opens for business

Bill has recruited a fellow business school graduate, Stephen Smith, to be the company’s chief operating officer and help oversee gas station’s business operations. Stephen will handle supplier relationships, logistics, and budgeting for the business.

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Accelerate Station are the fees charged to customers in exchange for the company’s products and services. When it comes to pricing, the station will monitor supply costs, average prices charged by competitors, and product availability in the market to ensure its prices will generate a healthy profit margin.

The cost drivers will be the overhead costs required in order to staff a gas station. The expenses will be the product itself, payroll cost, utilities, equipment and supplies, and marketing materials.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Key assumptions.

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

• Average sales per month: 2,000
• Average fees per month: $15,000
• Overhead costs per year: $640,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, gas station business plan faqs, what is a gas station business plan.

A gas station business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your gas station business. Among other things, a fuel station business plan outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections. You can easily complete your Gas Station business plan using our Gas Station Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Gas Stations?

There are a number of different kinds of gas stations, some examples include: Franchise Gas Station, Full Service Gas Station, or Quick Service Gas Station.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Gas Station?

After you complete your filling station business plan, you can start to seek financing.

Gas Stations are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

What are the Steps To Start a Gas Station Business?

Starting a Gas Station business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop A Gas Station Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed fuel station business plan pdf or doc that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast.

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your Gas Station business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your Gas Station business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Gas Station Business -Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your Gas Station business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws.

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your Gas Station business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms.

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations.

6. Hire Employees -There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events.

7. Acquire Necessary Gas Station Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your Gas Station business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation.

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your Gas Station business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising.

Learn more about how to start a successful Gas Station business: How to Start a Gas Station

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Convenience Store Gas Station Business Plan

Start your own convenience store gas station business plan

Allensburg's Food and Gas

Executive summary executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan. it describes your business, the problem that it solves, your target market, and financial highlights.">.

Allensburg is a small town with a population 3,400. Located on rural Highway 310, the town is 30 miles south of the city of Kent and 34 miles north of the city of Willard. Highway 310 connects Kent and Willard that both have universities and a cumulative population of 200,000 residents. The highway is the main road through town and is used daily by thousands of commuters between the two cities. These commuters sustain a number of road side businesses on Highway 310 that sell flowers, produce and bakery products.

In order to get gas in the Allensburg area, commuters currently have to leave the highway and drive three miles into the edge of town. Robert Cole, the owner of Allensburg’s Food and Gas has the opportunity to rent a plot of land just off the Allensburg exit of Highway 310.

Allensburg’s Food and Gas will offer these commuters gas, organic produce, and a deli. On the way to work, a commuter could stop for gas and pick up a sandwich. On the way home, the same commuter could stop again to pick up something for dinner.

The aim of this plan is to be a guide for this start-up business. Researching and defining our markets, strategies, mission and financials will provide insight and prepare the owner to successfully run Allensburg’s Food and Gas.

1.1 Objectives

• To capture an increasing share of the commuter traffic passing through Allensburg.
• To offer our customers superior products, at an affordable price.
• To provide customer service that is second to none.

1.2 Mission

The mission of Allensburg’s Food and Gas is to offer commuters on Highway 310 competitive gas prices and great food. The company will make a healthy profit for its owners and provide a rewarding work environment for its employees.

1.3 Keys to Success

• Good quality products at competitive prices.
• Excellent customer service that will promote customer loyalty.
• A location that will assure that commuters will stop.

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Gas Station Business Plan Sample

MAR.26, 2018

Do you want to start gas station business?

Are you thinking of starting a gas station ? A gas station was also known as a petrol station is a business that retails diesel, gasoline and various types of motor vehicle lubricants. The increase in the number of automobiles has pushed up the demand for gasoline and diesel which makes the  gas station business plan a lucrative venture. The oil and gas industry has in recent times gone through various challenges, but it still remains one of the most lucrative business sectors. Investing in a gas station requires a significant amount of investment, but with a sound business strategy , you can be assured of recovering your entire investment.

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

The gas station will be registered under the name Savoy Gas and will be located in Princeton, New Jersey on Exit 2 off the New York Philadelphia interstate highway. This is an excellent location considering the high amount of vehicular traffic that uses the highway on a daily basis. Savoy gas station will be owned and managed by Mike Wall who is a Petroleum Engineer.

2.2 Management Team

Mike Wall is an expert Petroleum Engineer who has had a successful career spanning over twenty-five years. Mike has worked for large and reputable international organizations in the oil and gas industry. He has overseen numerous large-scale industry projects that have earned him respect and recognition in the industry.

2.3 Customer Focus

Savoy Gas Station aims to offer a fully equipped gas station facility for motorists using the busy Interstate highway. Identifying potential customers is a critical step of starting your own gas station business plan .

2.4 Business Target

To succeed in its mandate, the gas station intends to focus on harnessing the latest technologies in the oil and gas industry to offer quality and reliable services to motorists.

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Mike Wall is a Petroleum Engineer who has worked for several high profile oil and gas companies across the United States. He is credited for his professionalism and spearheading of numerous technical projects. Mike has worked in various senior capacities in different organizations, as well as participated in numerous local, regional and global petroleum conferences.

3.2 Aim of Starting the Business

Starting your own gas station requires a good understanding and knowledge of the oil and gas industry. Having been in the industry for almost three decades, Mike was deeply involved in policy making and technical implementation of gas station projects. Working closely with gas station stakeholders, Mike thought it would be a great idea to transfer his expertise to entrepreneurship.

3.3 How the Business will be Started

As a Petroleum Engineer, Mike Wall already has the technical knowhow of the infrastructure and technologies required to start a gas station. However, he has closely worked with financial experts to formulate a sound financial plan to support the business model. The following is key financial information for Savoy Gas station.

Services for Customers

Savoy Gas station is focused on offering a professional service in line with the growing demand for well-equipped gas station facilities in Princeton, New Jersey. Opening a gas station requires great innovation in service delivery. Savoy Gas station will offer the following diversified services.

• Provision of retail gasoline and diesel
• Selling automotive related products such as oil and lubricants
• Automotive repair services i.e. Wheel Balancing, Wheel Alignment and Vulcanizing
• Selling soft drinks, snacks, groceries and selected household items.

Marketing Analysis for Gas Station Business

For Savoy Gas station to be successful, a comprehensive market analysis was carried out to pinpoint areas of focus that will drive business development.

This gas station business plan sample explains the strategy the gas station intends to follow to meet its targets. Using this strategy, the business intends to get a good amount of revenue considering it lies on a main interstate highway that is used by thousands of commuters on a daily basis. Currently, commuters don’t have a well-equipped shop where they can get adequate food supplies while travelling since the nearest gas station is over 15 miles away.

5.1 Market Segmentation

After realizing there are few gas stations around Princeton area off the interstate highway, Savoy Gas has found a market it can effectively explore and provide a critical service for its customers. Based on market research and findings, the business is targeting the following customers for inclusion in its gas station marketing plan . Anyone looking for gasoline and diesel as well as a well-stocked food and drinks outlet is a potential customer for the business.

5.1.1 Automobile Owners

Automobile engines rely on gasoline and fuel in order to operate efficiently. Savoy Gas station will be located on the main New York to Philadelphia Interstate highway at Princeton, New Jersey. This is an extremely busy highway with thousands of vehicles using the highway on a daily basis. The nearest gas station is about fifteen miles away and Savoy gas station knows it’s located in a strategic location to offer key services to vehicle owners. In addition, the business intends to sell automotive products such as oil and different types of lubricants which are essential products to car owners. Given the scarcity of gas stations in the area, Savoy gas station intends to capitalize on the untapped market by setting up a fully equipped and professionally managed gas station. Motorists are the key customer target included in this gas station business plan template.

5.1.2 Commuters and Travellers

Because of the gas station’s strategic location on a main highway, services and products offered will help regular commuters, as well as long distance travellers using the interstate highway. With the wide range of services offered by the gas station, the business intends to rely on the high number of people using the highway to stop and buy food, snacks, drinks and other products at the facility.

5.1.3 Households

Princeton, New Jersey has nearby residential households that will benefit a great deal when the gas station is set up. The gas station business plan has focused on stocking a wide variety of foodstuffs, drinks and other products that primarily cater for household consumers. Starting a gas station business plan should include a strategy that incorporates the local community as customers. Local communities living around the gas station are excellent customers because the gas station business plan will get steady revenue from them. Savoy gas station is expected to be nearest shopping facility that stocks basic items.

5.1.4 Students

The vicinity of the gas station has many educational facilities including the famous Princeton University. Savoy gas station plans to market its products especially drinks and snacks to students from nearby high schools, colleges and universities.

5.2 Business Target

Savoy gas station intends to open in an area with a lot of business potential. There is no doubt one of the greatest strengths and advantages outlined in this gas station business plan is the strategic location. The plan is to implement a unique business model that focuses on an exemplary customer service approach and provision of topnotch products and services. Savoy gas station will recover its entire startup capital after three years in operation. There is a projection of annual sales growth of between 20-25%.

5.3 Product Pricing

A good gas station business plan & startup guide should always give guidance on how product pricing will be implemented. In the case of Savoy gas station, prices for various products and services have been determined using a competitive approach. After considering price ranges from nearby gas stations, the business has carefully priced its products.

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It was amazing to work with OGS Capital for our business plan. They promptly responded our enquires and delivered document on time.The document was well organized high quality and content.We succeded with Alex and his team support. We thank you guys again for professional approach and easy communication.

In order to understand how to open a gas station and be successful, there must be a well-defined sales strategy. Mike Wall has cooperated with business startup and strategy gurus to find a creative and smart way of boosting business revenue. The following is a detailed sales strategy for Savoy gas station.

6.1 Competitive Analysis

Savoy gas station is located in an excellent location off a busy interstate highway and near a large residential area. This is the only gas station within a fifteen mile radius, the demand for gas station business plan and products is expected to be high.

6.2 Sales Strategy

To ensure Savoy gas station captures the intended market, the gas station business model will rely on the following sales strategy to increase customer numbers and boost sales.

• Create awareness of the gas station by distributing introductory letters to local residents, merchants, transport companies and other interested parties.
• Conduct a grand opening party of the gas station to capture the attention of residents who are a priority customer segment for Savoy gas station.
• Advertise the gas station business plan on various media channels i.e. local TV stations, newspapers and popular radio stations.
• Invest in a search engine-friendly website and market using various social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
• Hire expert marketing firms to formulate innovative sales strategies that will be used on a continuous basis to attract customers.
• Always meet customer expectations and learn to listen to what customers are saying to better understand their needs.
• Erect billboards on the highway and within strategic locations in the neighborhood to let potential customers know about the gas station.
• Come up with an exciting loyalty program to reward regular clients.

6.3 Sales Forecast

Savoy gas station is keen to implement its sales strategies to achieve its targets. Below is a summary of sales forecasts for the gas station.

Personnel Plan

Savoy gas station has diversified its product range and service niche meaning the business requires staff of different expertise and backgrounds to run the gas station business plan . When determining how much does it cost to start a gas station business , the issue of staff and their salaries has to be considered.

7.1 Personnel Plan

Savoy gas station is owned by Mike Wall, a Petroleum Engineer who will also be the Chief Executive of the gas station. The gas station business plan will employ the following staff to work in various departments.

• Gas Station Manager
• Assistant Manager
• Convenience Store Manager
• Three Pump Attendants
• Two Marketing Executives
• One Cashiers
• Two Security guards
• Two Automobile Repair Technicians

Successful applicants will undergo an intensive training and induction session before the gas station opens to the public.

7.2 Average Staff Salaries

Savoy gas station intends to pay its staff the following salaries for the first three years after launching operations.

Financial Plan

Savoy gas station has an elaborate financial plan that will serve as the business roadmap towards attaining success. Opening a gas station cost must be known and other key financial variables that will steer the gas station business plan to prosperity identified. The gas station startup capital will come from Mike’s personal savings as well as a loan to supplement initial capital. Two investors will also contribute to the initial business startup capital. Aside from determining how much does a gas station cost to open , other important financial variables have been captured in the sections below.

8.1 Important Assumptions

Savoy gas station’s financial forecasts are based on the assumptions shown below.

8.2 Brake-even Analysis

Savoy gas station Brake-even Analysis is illustrated in the graph below.

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

Profit and Loss information for Savoy gas station calculated on a monthly and annual basis is shown below.

8.3.1 Monthly Profit

8.3.2 Yearly Profit

8.3.3 Monthly Gross Margin

8.3.4 Yearly Gross Margin

Below is Savoy gas station’s Profit and Loss Analysis.

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

The diagram below shows pro forma cash flow, subtotal cash received, subtotal cash from operations, subtotal cash spent on operations and subtotal cash spent.

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

Depicted below is Savoy gas station Projected Balance Sheet that shows capital, assets, liabilities, long term assets and current liabilities.

8.6 Business Ratios

Business Rations, Business Net Worth and Ratio Analysis for Savoy gas station have been show below.

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How to Open a Gas Station: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Have you ever wanted to open a gas station but kept delaying it because you didn’t even know where to start? While starting a business can be a complex process, and opening your own gas station does have a few unique challenges you should be aware of, this shouldn’t discourage you from feeding your entrepreneurial spirit.

After all, the oil and gas industry has soared to over $180 billion in 2018. With millions of licensed drivers but just over 100,000 gas stations in the United States, learning how to open a gas station could be a lucrative business move.

How to open a gas station

1. write your business plan.

If you’re looking into how to start a gas station, be aware that the initial costs are quite high⁠ — this financial entry barrier may necessitate a loan. Writing a comprehensive business plan will be key in convincing lenders to approve your loan application or getting investors interested in funding you. When writing a business plan for a gas station, here are some points to research:

List your products and services

Gas stations are rarely limited to motor fuel. You’ll often notice how many gas stations also operate as convenience stores. In addition to recording the number of gas pumps and fuel options will be available at your gas station, you should research additional products and services to boost your profit margins. Common products and services you’ll see at a gas station include:

Car washes.

Air stations.

Lottery tickets.

Market analysis

The gas industry has a competitive market. It’s critical that you research the competition when looking into starting a gas station so that you can adjust your own marketing strategy to maximize traffic and profit. In your market analysis, here are some questions you want to answer:

What are your competitors’ strengths?

What are your competitors’ weaknesses?

How can you eliminate those weaknesses in your own business?

How can you solve the same problems better or differently than your competitors?

Will your competitors be a significant threat if you opened your business?

How can you use location to drive traffic to your business?

Your gas station location will influence how much traffic you attract, so it should be a priority when you’re brainstorming how to open a gas station. Reference back to your market analysis and how your chosen location is advantageous to your business. Will you choose a location where there is a fierce competitor across the street from you? Or will you choose an isolated location along a populated highway and cater to truck drivers and traveling families?

One tip when choosing a business location is to research up-and-coming neighborhoods. These neighborhoods will likely be further out from major cities and they’ll be in need of gas stations to fuel their longer commutes. Another tip is to avoid locations where wholesale retailers like Sam’s Club or Costco offer deeply discounted gas prices.

2. Register your business

Register a business entity

Every business operates as some kind of business entity or business structure. Business owners may start out as sole proprietorships since there’s no paperwork required to register as one. However, when starting a gas station, we do not recommend operating as a sole proprietor. A gas station can be exposed to many risks, like burglaries and leaks, and you want to ensure that your personal assets will be protected.

The two most common business structures for gas stations to consider are limited liability companies and corporations. You may want to consider consulting a business attorney to determine which legal structure is best for your needs.

Business owners who operate as LLCs get to choose whether they’d like to be taxed as a sole proprietor or corporation. Also, they tend to pay lower annual fees. This business structure tends to be attractive to gas station owners who choose to stay small, especially if they own only one gas station. However, LLCs usually experience more difficulty raising money from investors.

Corporations tend to attract business owners who expect to raise capital from investors. If you expect to own a chain of gas stations or grow your gas station brand to compete with industry leaders, like Shell of Chevron, then a corporation may be the business structure for you.

To register as an LLC or corporation, you’ll need to consult your state’s Secretary of State office, either online or in person. Typically, you’ll have to fill out paperwork called either the articles of organization (if filing as an LLC) or articles of incorporation (if filing as a corporation) and pay a fee. In some states, you may also have to publish a notice in a local paper.

Choose a unique business name

When it comes to how to open a gas station, you want to ensure that your business name is unique so that it is not confused with another company. Conduct a quick search with your state’s Secretary of State business search and the United States Patent and Trademark Office to verify the availability of your desired name. Also, you’ll want to confirm that the domain name is available with sites like Name.com or GoDaddy.com.

Register for taxes

As a small business owner, you’ll also require an employer identification number to operate your business. An EIN is a nine-digit number used when filing your business taxes. You can apply for an employer identification number online with the IRS. You should receive your EIN within minutes after applying.

Depending on tax regulations in your state, you may also need to register for a state tax ID when starting a gas station.

Buy a franchise

If you’re looking into how to open a gas station, you may have considered buying into an existing gas station franchise, like Chevron or Mobil. Many drivers opt to buy gas from a familiar national brand, even if a competitor offers a lower price. There are several advantages to buying a franchise, like using an existing trademark and operating within a proven business model. However, you would need to pay royalties to the parent company.

If you decide to buy a franchise, make sure you have a business attorney review the legalities of any franchise agreement before signing.

3. Secure funding

Starting a gas station requires a significant amount of money when you factor in purchasing property, stocking up on supplies, paying employees, and keeping up with regulations. We’ll go over what specifically you’ll need to finance your gas station in this section. However, with all the costs involved in starting a gas station, we recommend opening a separate bank account to keep your business and personal finances separate.

How Much Do You Need?

How much does it cost to start a gas station?

As we mentioned before, starting a gas station has a high financial entry barrier. You should expect to secure at least $300,000 to cover the following startup costs:

Purchasing the location.

Business insurance.

Registering your business.

Licenses and permits.

Marketing materials.

Initial inventory (gas, consumables).

Setting up your gas station.

Setting up your convenience store.

Securing a gas supplier.

Paying employees.

Royalties per your franchise agreement.

Also, there will be ongoing costs following the startup costs. If your gas station will be operating 24 hours, you will need to pay for employee wages, utilities, and replenishing inventory. Also, the cost of replenishing your fuel reserves can rack up quickly. You can expect to pay at least $50 to $70 per 20-gallon barrel of fuel.

Financing your gas station

To cover these high initial costs, you should consider applying for a business loan through your bank. Unfortunately, slim profit margins tend to characterize gas station businesses. According to the National Association of Convenience Stores, “the average privately held gas station made only 0.02 cent of profit on each dollar of sales.”

You’ll need to rely on a stellar business track record and a comprehensive business plan to convince lenders that your business is a worthwhile investment. Even still, traditional lenders don’t usually lend money to new businesses. Some other financing options include:

SBA loans .

Equipment leasing.

Crowdfunding.

Angel investors.

4. Buy the property

When purchasing the location for your gas station, it's important to discuss ownership rights to any existing tanks and pumps that may already be there.

This is an important step when it comes to how to open a gas station: Before finalizing the purchase agreement, first confirm whether the sale transfers ownership rights of the pumps and tanks to your name. Also, you should research the equipment’s repair history to determine the remaining “shelf life.” This will verify whether you should reuse or replace the existing equipment.

When outlining your purchase agreement, remember to include an environmental contingency clause . This clause allows you to conduct more research on the property’s environmental history after the purchase agreement is signed. If an environmental site assessment yields unfavorable findings, you can withdraw from the sale and get your deposit refunded.

5. Secure a gas supplier contract

It’s important to understand how you will regularly replenish your gas tank reserves. You’ll have to research different local wholesale providers to supply fuel for your station. Gas suppliers often earn a percentage of your sales, so you should do a thorough rate comparison to ensure you are maximizing your own profit margins.

If you are operating a franchise, review your franchise agreement to determine if they already have a preferred vendor for gas supply.

Again, have an attorney review your franchise agreement and gas supplier contract to ensure you are maximizing profit and avoiding any hidden fees.

6. Obtain necessary permits and licenses

When it comes to how to open a gas station, the necessary permits and licenses will vary from state to state. Be sure to research your respective state’s business requirements. Generally, you would be required to obtain permits for the following:

Fire inspections.

Tank inspections.

Water discharge.

Sale of alcohol and tobacco.

Restaurant codes and regulations.

Motor fuel outlet license.

Certificate of occupancy.

7. Get business insurance

We highly recommend that you buy business insurance to protect your business. Operating a gas station can expose you to several risks on a daily basis: burglary, employee injury, equipment breakdown, property damage, and more. Insurance helps to keep you and your assets protected.

8. Market yourself

Use pole signs and highway exit signs

When seeking a gas station, many drivers just want to find the nearest one, fill up, and then leave. As a gas station owner, it’s often worth buying tall pole signs and highway exit signs to market your business. Capturing drivers’ attentions while they’re already driving can boost traffic to your gas station.

Get active on Yelp

Drivers often use Yelp to find the nearest gas station. If they have to choose between your gas station and your competitor across the street, they’ll likely choose the gas station with superior Yelp ratings. Boost your rating by offering stellar customer service, clean facilities, and responding to reviews.

Create a loyalty program

Did you know that it’s often more expensive to acquire new customers than it is to retain existing customers? Smart marketers know this and that’s why big-brand gas stations, like Chevron and Exxon, offer loyalty programs to their driving customers. Create a loyalty program when you’re starting a gas station and you can slowly build a loyal customer base.

Partner with food franchises

You might notice nowadays that 7/11 isn’t the only franchise you’ll find at a gas station. More gas stations are partnering with food franchises, like McDonald’s and Subway. This can be great for business because it transforms your business from a gas stop to a rest stop. This creates more opportunities for customers to also enter your convenience store and buy consumer goods.

Consider lowering your gas price

You might be surprised that many gas stations don’t make a significant profit from selling fuel. Many gas station owners increase their profit margins through their convenience stores. Lowering your prices, even by a cent, can attract more drivers to your location, increasing the likelihood that customers will leave the pump and enter your store to buy a drink or other goods.

Install more gas pumps

The reality is that refilling your gas tank isn’t fun. It’s an errand that people have to do to get them from Point A to Point B. This chore becomes more of an annoyance when people drive into a fully-packed gas station. Adding more gas pumps makes the gas-filling process as convenient as possible. Just the availability of gas pumps can attract drivers to your gas station.

9. Familiarize yourself with your day-to-day responsibilities

Establish hours of operation

Many gas stations are open 24 hours a day. If you want to keep up with the competition, your own gas station might have to operate 24 hours as well. Should you do this, you’ll need to hire more employees to cover the graveyard shift.

Punctuality

Punctuality is essential when operating a gas station. Often, drivers will stop by for gas in the early morning before work. If they have to wait for you, drivers will bring their business to a competitor and you’ll probably lose those customers for good.

Since your gas station will likely sell a variety of consumer goods, like snacks and drinks, you must keep your inventory organized. Running inventory every day will help you identify when your reserves are low and you need to restock. Make sure you also get estimated delivery dates on vendor delivers to better coordinate when you need to resupply.

Set up security measures

Gas stations, especially 24-hour operations, are particularly vulnerable to crime. It’s important that you and your employees are safe. Consider installing cameras and shatter-proof windows as an additional security measure. Also, daily bank deposits will help keep your cash assets safe from burglaries.

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How to write a gas station business plan: Step-by-step guide

posted on 6:23 am

If you want to start a new gas station business, the first thing you will need is a comprehensive gas station business plan. A business plan will give you clarity on what you will need for your business, and the operational requirements. A business plan is also an important tool for acquiring financing from lenders or investors. This post outlines the important sections with a brief summary of the key points to capture when writing a gas station business plan.

Overview of a Business Plan  

A well written business plan should include the following sections:

• An executive summary

Introduction

• Business industry and overview
• Marketing strategy and analysis
• Risks and significant opportunities

Location and assets

• Management and human resource

Financial plan and budget

Executive summary  .

Your executive summary should outline how your gas station will provide fuel for motorists and at the same time stand out from competitors. It should be short and precise and appealing enough to capture the attention of your audience. The executive summary motivates the reader to read the entire plan. Its therefore, important to highlight the key points for each so that the reader can grasp briefly what you intended to put across. Among the important points to articulate are your gas station business objectives, fuel business industry environment, the fuel products and services, location, target market, competitive advantage (unique selling point) and the specific gap you will be filling.

This section introduces your gas station business by briefly describing the company profile,  mission, vision, core values, organizational structure, and the strategic objectives. The profile gives a brief history of the business, the fuel products and services you will be offering, the location of the gas station and your projected growth. The vision should include your long-term and short-term goals and how you will achieve them. Also, include the organizational structure, your daily workflow, and other operational activities that will make your business achieve your desired goals.

Business industry and overview 

In this section, you talk about industry trends and the external factors that affect the gas station business, both positively and negatively. Also, state the major players in the gas station with convenience stores business both nationally and your direct local competitors that influence your business. The major players in Canada you may mention include Suncor (Petro-Canada), Imperial Oil Limited (Esso), Shell, 7-Eleven, Superstore (Mobil), Co-op etc. Locally you can mention businesses at most five to ten kilometers from your desired location. Additionally, describe the products and services your gas station will offer, including the grades of gas and types of oil for instance regular gasoline, midgrade gasoline, premium gasoline, diesel fuel, automotive services etc.

To increase customer base, you may want to include other complementary products and services such as a convenience store that sells snacks, chips, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, tobacco and lottery products, groceries, souvenirs, mechanical repair service, and automotive service such as car wash. Finally, mention the government and industry policies and regulations, permit requirements i.e. health, safety and environment. Other than regulations, you can talk about your initiative of innovation and investment in the environment to show your interest in protecting communities, people and the environment as a whole.

Market strategy and analysis  

A marketing strategy describes your overall game plan for reaching prospective. Talk about the marketing strategies you will use to introduce your gas station to the market and how you plan to attract and retain customers. One thing to note is that marketing in the gas station industry is highly dependent on your supplier’s brand name. Most customers are loyal to specific brands. You therefore have to choose your supplier diligently and brand your station to reflect your supplier’s brand image and standard of service. This way you will benefit from increased business due their larger marketing efforts and customer loyalty programs, such as rewards programs with grocery stores.

Also, discuss in detail your specific target market and list down your direct competitors and write down a summary of their product/service offering, pricing strategy, target market, strengths, and weaknesses. Mention how you plan to differentiate your gas station from your competitors i.e., by offering in demand convenience goods, automotive repairs, after sale services (e.g. wind screen cleaning), your supplier’s brand image, etc. Your unique selling point may focus on your choice of location which can be an area with high traffic with no other existing gas station.

SWOT analysis

In your SWOT analysis, explain how you will maximize on your strengths and take advantage of the business opportunities. Also, indicate how you will minimize your weaknesses and threats. These points can touch on your target market, the location of the gas station, the fuel options, and industry trends. Some of the strengths as a result of industry trends you can mention include low capital requirements, low imports, high revenue per employee and low product/ service concentration. Weaknesses on the other hand may include high competition and high customer class concentration. You may also want to mention the opportunities presented by the industry such as high revenue growth and high per capita disposable income. Threats majorly facing the industry that you will want to address on your mitigation strategies include the world oil price, which is expected to decrease, heavy regulation of the industry, low demand of fuel due to the pandemic, etc.

Mention where you plan to set up your gas station and indicate why you selected that area. If you have any future growth plans list down the locations, you plan to open other gas stations. State your equipment and fuel procurement plans indicating where you plan to buy or lease your gas station and convenience store and oil depot solution which are necessary for the operation of the business.

Management and human resources

This section identifies the personnel responsible for the running and management of the business. Here you talk about the founders, team leader or manager of your business, the entire employee workforce, their roles and employee benefits. Also discuss their profiles pointing out how suitable they are for the running of the business.

Insurance for a Gas Station Business

From leaky fuel tanks to burglaries, running a gas station can be a risky endeavor. Insurance will secure the business in the event of the unanticipated circumstances. You therefore should state the insurance packages you will be having.

This is the most important section of your business plan to your audience. The investor or lender will want to know how your business is going to perform financially. Prepare financial projections for the next five years to determine the start-up costs of leasing or buying a gas station and making the pumps operational. Your financial documents should show the cost of required licenses, insurance, payroll, interest expense for servicing the loan or return to the investor, utilities and environmental services. Calculate the revenues you anticipate from the sale of fuel, automotive products and concessions in your revenue projections

Conclusion  

In summary, a gas station business plan document is a requirement in the business planning process. It enables you to realize your vision and achieve your goals. A well crafted, comprehensive and appealing plan for your gas station will enable you to capture all aspects of your business in an enticing manner. You can get in touch with us at Vaisus Consulting to help you prepare an exhaustive, funding-ready gas station business plan that is customized to meet your needs. To speak with one of our consultants,  schedule an appointment  with us.

How to Start a Gas Station

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Steps to Open a Gas Station

How big is the gas stations industry, what are the key segments of the gas stations industry, what external factors affect the gas stations industry, who are the key competitors in the gas stations industry, what are the key customer segments in the gas station market, how much does it cost to open a gas station, is a gas station business profitable, what are the keys to launching a new gas station business, how to start a gas station faqs, helpful videos, additional resources, other helpful business plan articles & templates.

Starting a gas station is a lot like opening any other business: you’ll need a comprehensive business plan and the right resources.

In this article, we will discuss the things you’ll need to start a successful gas station.

Importantly, a critical step in starting a gas station is to complete your business plan. To help you out, you should download Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template here .

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here

1. Research gas station business opportunities.

Start by doing research to see how many gas stations already exist in your area and what kind of competition you’ll be facing. This will help you determine whether starting a station is commercially viable and where it can be located. To be successful, the nearest gas station to your property should be at least one mile away or on the opposite side of a high-traffic street or highway.

2. Decide if you are going to start a new gas station or buy an existing gas station.

Next, you need to decide whether you’re going to start a gas station from scratch or buy an existing gas station. If you want to invest less money and time, buying an already established gas station may be for you.

3. Write a gas station business plan .

Writing a gas station business plan will help you know how much money you’ll need to start the gas station and how much gas you should buy to meet gas demand. You should include your gas supplier in the plan.

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4. Open a business bank account.

Open a business bank account in which you deposit all of your gas station’s earnings. You can then use the money deposited into that account to buy what you need for the gas station’s operation. Always keep your gas station business separate from your personal assets.

5. Get financing.

When you start a gas station, you’ll need to get financing. Sources of funding for a gas station include personal savings, a business loan, and gas station franchising.

6. Find a place to open your gas station.

When choosing a gas station location, you’ll need at least 2,100 square feet for fuel pumps and about 1,350 square feet of office space attached to the gas station. Consider gas station laws and zoning requirements before choosing a location. These estimates are for a minimum service gas station, but if you plan to add on any other services or food options, you will need more space.

7. Register your business with the state and federal government.

Registering a gas station is mandatory before selling gas to the public. You must register as a corporation or an LLC with the Secretary of State to do business as a gas station.

8. Get the proper permits.

Before you can open your gas station, you’ll need to get gas station permits from the Department of Transportation (DOT). The DOT regulates gas stations that are registered with them to ensure safety measures are being followed. You will also need to meet equipment and design requirements.

9. Buy necessary equipment.

You’ll need to buy gas station equipment before opening for business. Gas stations require gas pumps, convenience store cash registers, gas station scales, garbage cans, debris containers, restroom supplies, and hot beverage machines. You must also buy gas-related safety items including gas-dispensing nozzles, gas pump hoses, gas can regulators, and fire extinguishers.

10. Order initial inventory.

Before you open your gas station, make a list of supplies and equipment you’ll need to complete your regular inventory. Order these items well in advance of opening a gas station since gas-related equipment like gas pumps can take several weeks to arrive. This may also include food, beverage, and travel inventory for a small gas station and convenience store.

11. Hire employees.

Gas stations require gas station attendants to work the gas pumps and cashiers to run the convenience store. You should also hire a gas station manager to handle daily operations like buying gas station supplies, hiring/firing employees, and maintenance.

12. Open for business.

Once you get all your gas station permits, order equipment, and hire employees, you can open for business. Keep your gas station well-stocked with gas at all times, and always remember to check gas pumps for leaks.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

The gas station industry is worth $109.8 billion in revenue and is expected to grow by 1.8% in the next five years.

Most stations operate in metropolitan areas where people drive cars to work or school. Gas stations provide essential products and services to their customers while collecting a large amount of revenue during peak driving times.

The industry can be segmented into three key categories:

• Franchise Gas Station : this type of gas station is operated by a company that owns the site. The franchise sales include all profits and expenses, but they also must pay royalties to the owner of their location’s brand name.
• Full Service Gas Station : this type of gas station is owned and operated by the same company that owns the property. It may also includes additional amenities such as a convenience store, auto repair shop, and/or coffee shop.
• Quick Service Gas Station : this type of gas station offers fast service, which can include a single-pump island that only serves a few customers at a time. Customers usually pay for fuel at a pump and then leave the area without going inside.

The price of gas, the economy, and the availability of gas are just a few of the factors that can affect a gas station’s business. To be successful, it’s important to understand how these factors can impact your business.

• Gas Price – The price of gas has a direct impact on the amount people are willing to pay for it. If gas prices increase, more people will try to conserve their usage and look for ways to cut back.
• Economy – When the economy is thriving, people are more likely to spend money on gas-related activities. However, when the economy is struggling people are less willing to purchase unnecessary items, like gas.
• Availability of Gas – If gas stations are not located near populated areas, it will be difficult to sell gas and make a profit. The key to success in the industry is being located in a densely populated area that has a high demand for fuel.

The gas station and convenience store industry is highly competitive. Some of the most notable competitors in the market include:

While these three companies are some of the largest competitors, there are hundreds of smaller competitors in the space.

The gas station industry is a highly competitive market with several key customer segments. The most important customer segments are individual consumers, commercial businesses, and government organizations.

Individual consumers are the most important customer segment for gas stations. This is because gas stations are in the business of selling gasoline, and it is individuals who buy gas regularly. They account for the majority of gas station sales, and they are the most price-sensitive customers.

Commercial businesses are the second most important customer segment for gas stations. This is because commercial companies operate fleets of trucks and other vehicles that require fuel to run. Commercial businesses account for a majority of gas station sales during peak business hours.

Government Agencies

Government agencies are the third most important customer segment for gas stations. Even though they are not the largest customer segment, government agencies are important because they represent stable revenue for many gas station owners. This is especially true during natural disasters when gas prices can triple.

On average, initial costs to open a gas station range from $300,000 to $500,000. The price ranges are determined by location and the type of gas station you plan to operate. However, you should expect to pay the following startup costs when opening a gas station:

Cost of Property – The price of land is typically the highest expense associated with the startup of a gas station. For example, if you choose to lease property you will be required to sign a long-term agreement that could span more than 10 years. At that point, you can expect your monthly payment to range from $2,000 to $5,000 depending on the location of the property.

Cost of Construction – Building out a gas station can be costly, especially if there are permits and other construction requirements that need to be met.

Cost of Equipment – Gas station equipment is used to store and dispense gas and other fuels. This equipment must meet certain safety and environmental regulations. To ensure you’re fully compliant with all regulations, it’s advised that you work with a design consultant who knows the industry inside and out. The cost of this equipment can range from $25,000 to $100,000.

Cost of Inventory – To sell gas and other fuels you will need to purchase enough inventory for your total projected sales during the next year. The cost of this inventory can range from $3 million to $4 million depending on demand and local competition in an area.

Cost of Marketing : Advertising and marketing a gas station can be expensive, but is essential for attracting customers to the gas station. This may include billboards along the local section of the highway and other signage.

Legal Fees – Before you can begin selling gas at a new location, you need to establish that your business is up-to-date on all necessary licenses and permits. Your attorney will usually charge around $1,000 to help you acquire these documents.

Business Insurance : Insurance for a gas station can be expensive but is necessary to provide personal asset protection and general liability insurance to cover any onsite injuries that may arise.

Utilities : Gas stations typically require a lot of power, water, and gas supplies which can cost a significant amount depending on how much gas will be sold at the gas station.

Other Startup Costs – Other startup costs associated with opening a gas station include bank fees, building improvements or renovations, and utility connections. Bank fees and building improvements typically range from $100,000 to $200,000. Utility connection costs range from $2,500 to $10,000 depending on which ones you plan to use.

The profitability of gas station businesses depends on which type you purchase. For example, if you buy a small neighborhood gas station with only one pump and few employees, chances are it’s not going to be profitable. On the other hand, if you have a large gas station that sells high quantities of gasoline per day, then your business is likely to generate a large profit.

If you buy a gas station that’s already established, then there’s a good chance that it will generate money. You can also increase your chances of success by purchasing an area with high traffic and sales volume.  

A gas station is a great investment opportunity, but it’s important to know what you need to do to make your gas station successful. Here are the keys to launching a new gas station:

1. Have a Well-Written Business Plan

Your gas station business plan should be well-written and well-researched. It should include information about your business model, your target market, your marketing strategy, your financial projections, and more.

2. Choose the Right Location

Location is key when starting gas station businesses. You need to find a business location that is in high traffic areas and that has ample parking.

3. Offer Competitive Prices

You need to offer competitive prices if you want to attract customers away from the gas stations already in business.

4. Hire High-Quality Employees

You can’t be successful if you don’t have high-quality employees working for you. Make sure that your gas station has well-trained, professional employees on staff.

5. Include Variety in Your Product Offerings

People visit most gas stations for more than just gas; they also buy snacks, cigarettes, lottery tickets, and other products at stations while they fill up their tanks or cars with gas. Make sure to include a variety of products when starting so that your customers will keep coming back for more.

How to Finish Your Ultimate Business Plan in 1 Day!

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your gas station business plan?

With Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

What services should a gas station offer if it wants to attract customers?

If a business owner wants to attract more customers, they can add any of the following services:

• Car wash - Car washes help attract more customers and increase the chances of having a high volume of people visit your station.
• Convenience store - Convenience stores are another way to bring in more business. Offering snacks, cigarettes, lottery tickets, and other products can help drive traffic to your gas station.
• Coffee shop - If the gas station is open for a long time such as 24 hours, having a coffee shop will help attract more customers during the day and night.
• Service station - Some auto repair services such as oil changes may need some training so it’s practical to offer them in-house.
• Fast food restaurant - If the gas station has a restaurant within it, customers will likely stay longer in line waiting for their gas. This can help increase gas station profits.

How do gas station owners price their products?

Most gas station owners opt to price their products to remain competitive and to maximize profitability. When it comes to determining prices, there are many options available including the following:

• Cost-Plus Pricing - Gas stations that use this pricing model base their product price on cost plus an additional amount for profit. This method is based on the assumption that all competitors are using it, and it takes into account the industry's average markup.
• Target Costing - Gas stations that use this pricing model base their product price on the cost of producing or acquiring the product plus a target gross profit margin that takes into account both fixed and variable expenses.
• Promotional Pricing - Small business owners often use promotional pricing to attract customers at different times of the day, week, or year. Promotional pricing can be effective because it tends to lower the customer's per-unit cost and incentivizes them to purchase more than one unit at a time.
• Psychological Pricing - Gas stations use psychological pricing to convey status and quality via prices that end in $0.99, $9.99, and $199.99. This strategy works by leveraging the power of relative comparison to influence customer purchase decisions.

The Association for Convenience & Fuel Retailing

Preventing Leaks and Spills at Service Stations

How to Write a Business Plan for a Gas Station

• Small Business
• Business Planning & Strategy
• Write a Business Plan
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Frozen Food Business Plan

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A business plan gives you a daily guide on how to run your gas station. It also comes in handy when you’re seeking financing to lease or buy a station and stock it with fuel and products. Once you complete the business plan you’re ready to write an executive summary that outlines how your gas station will provide a much-needed fueling resource while standing out from competitors and making a profit.

Describe the products and services your gas station will provide, including different grades of gas and types of oil. If you want customers to come inside, explain what products you plan to sell, such as snacks, chips, beverages, souvenirs, groceries or automotive products. To increase profits, you might also want to offer mechanical repairs or a car wash.

Discuss the market for opening a gas station in the area, and provide details about your competitors, including their pricing strategy, target market, strengths and weaknesses. Explain how there is a need for another gas station and how you will differentiate your station from the others, such as by offering convenience goods, automotive repairs or the lowest prices. Your competitive advantage might focus on selling gas on a busy street where no other gas stations exist. Or you might want to explain the benefits of adding another station to the mix since so many cars travel through the area because of a busy highway, an airport or a business complex.

Develop a sales and marketing strategy that draws customers and keeps them coming back each time they need to fill their tank. Your strategy might include offering a rewards program and erecting signs to let drivers know your gas prices. Mention advertising food and beverages at the pump if you plan to sell products inside the station. If your station is part of a franchise, provide details on the marketing and advertising the parent company provides.

Explain your background as an owner so investors know you’ve got the skills and experience to build a profitable station. If you lack experience, explain how the other businesses you’ve worked for or owned will help you make this venture successful. If you lack personal experience managing a gas station, find and detail the background of a manager to bring on board who knows the industry.

Prepare financial projections to determine the startup costs of leasing or buying a gas station and making the pumps operational. Your financial documents also need to show the cost of required licenses, payroll, utilities and environmental services. Calculate the revenues you anticipate from the sale of fuel, automotive products and concessions in your revenue projections.

• Brooklyn College: How to Create an Effective Business Plan
• Bplans: Convenience Store Gas Station Business Plan
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• Write the one- to three-page executive summary after you finish the rest of the business plan.
• Don’t leave out any weaknesses in your plan, such as the fact that there’s too much competition or not enough traffic in the area to sustain business, as investors usually discover these things. Then, they’ll wonder why you didn’t figure this out for yourself.

Nancy Wagner is a marketing strategist and speaker who started writing in 1998. She writes business plans for startups and established companies and teaches marketing and promotional tactics at local workshops. Wagner's business and marketing articles have appeared in "Home Business Journal," "Nation’s Business," "Emerging Business" and "The Mortgage Press," among others. She holds a B.S. from Eastern Illinois University.

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Gas Station Business Plan Template [Updated 2023]

Gas Station Business Plan

If you want to start a new gas station business or expand your current gas station, you need a business plan.

The following gas station business plan template gives you the key elements to include in a winning business plan for all types of gas stations including a petrol station, automotive services, filling stations and other gas stations.

You can download our Business Plan Template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here.

Gas Station Business Plan Example

Below are links to each of the key sections of a sample business plan. Once you create your plan, download it to PDF to show banks and investors.

I. Executive Summary II. Company Summary III. Industry Analysis IV. Customer Analysis V. Competitive Analysis VI. Marketing Plan VII. Operations Plan VIII. Management Team IX. Financial Plan

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Gas Station Business Plan Home I. Executive Summary II. Company Overview III. Industry Analysis IV. Customer Analysis V. Competitive Analysis VI. Marketing Plan VII. Operations Plan VIII. Management Team IX. Financial Plan