BRANDED VS. UNBRANDED C-STORES

Deciding whether or not to go branded or unbranded is a big decision for many convenience store owners who are new to the game of fuel distribution and fuel suppliers. And with every decision one has to make in life or in business, there are always pros and cons. 

IS BRANDED AND UNBRANDED FUEL ALL THE SAME? 
The answer is not as simple as a yes or a no. Both branded or unbranded fuel must adhere to and meet government standards before leaving the refinery. And while branded fuel may begin at that brand’s refinery, by the time it gets to the end of the process, there is no way in knowing what fuel came from which branded supplier.

The one real difference between branded and unbranded fuel is the process of adding detergents or additives right before the gasoline is taken to a branded c-store. For example, Exxon and Mobil gas stations offer their Synergy gasoline which is composed of “7 key ingredients and developed to clean up intake valves, which help improve gas mileage and performance.” And just like any other commodity, if you get more, then you can expect to possibly pay more. Because many unbranded c-stores do not offer a special or branded additive in their fuel, they often can charge customers less. 

THE PROS AND CONS OF BEING BRANDED VS. UNBRANDED
If you choose to go with a branded c-store, there are several benefits. One of the most appealing is the brand recognition. Even though your fuel prices may be a little higher due to marketing and additives in the fuel, many customers often lean towards a brand that they recognize and trust. In addition to brand recognition, national brands offer marketing resources to their branded c-stores, loyalty programs to customers, and other promotions to push customers to your store. Many even offer incentive rebates to store owners.

Going with an unbranded store can mean your customers will get the same quality fuel at a lower cost. However, many customers don’t often understand where their gasoline is coming from or the process it goes through before arriving at a gas station. Unbranded stores owners also don’t have to worry about maintenance and branding requirements. The one big worry is when the lower price is not enough to drive customers to their particular store. 

MAGNESS OIL WORKS WITH BOTH BRANDED AND UNBRANDED C-STORES
Magness Oil works with some of the top brands in the country such as Exxon, Mobil, Conoco, Phillips 66, Valero, Citgo, Spirit, and VP Racing. We also work with many unbranded c-store owners each day to make sure that they are well-taken care. Regardless, of your branding status, Magness Oil offers quality products, excellent customer service, and helpful technology to make sure stores are operating to their full potential when it comes to the fuel side of things.

If you are looking to open up your own c-store, Magness Oil has properties for lease and for sale. We also offer financing and both short term and long term contracts. Give Magness Oil Company a call today at (870) 425-4353 to get your convenience store up and running.