Gasoline is necessary for anyone who drives a gas-powered car, so you may think you don’t need to put that much effort into marketing. But with almost 150,000 gas stations across the U.S., competition can be stiff. You need to give potential customers a reason to pick you over the other guy down the highway.

We offer eight gas station marketing ideas to help you bring in more business and boost your profits.

1. Invest in Digital Signage

Digital signs are a dynamic and engaging way to attract customer attention and increase sales. They allow you to share real-time data such as fuel prices, weather updates, current deals, etc. Displayed promotions can lead to impulse purchases, helpful info like the weather can increase customer satisfaction, and the dynamic nature of digital signs makes updating content more efficient than traditional signage.

A few ways you can incorporate digital signage include:

  • At the Pump: Screens placed at the pump can catch customers’ attention while they are filling up, displaying ads or valuable information.
  • Storefront: Digital displays in windows or near the entrance can draw customers with attractive visuals of products or services.
  • In-Store: Screens near high-traffic areas or product displays can be used to promote specific store items or upcoming deals.

2. Offer a Rewards Program

In today’s tight economy, customers want to save cash wherever possible. Encourage and reward customer loyalty with a rewards program. This gas station marketing strategy can look different depending on your goals, but the primary aim is to provide value to frequent customers, encouraging them to return.

You don’t even have to invest a ton of resources for a mobile app or phone number tracking system to implement a rewards program. You can do something as simple as a paper punch card for drinks. As an example, for every 7 hot coffees or fountain drinks a customer purchases, they can get a free one in return.

3. Maintain an Online Presence

We live in a digital-first world, which means having an online presence is crucial for all businesses — including gas stations. However, this doesn’t mean you have to create a huge fancy website. You can create and manage a few social media accounts where you share current deals and updates.

You should also have a Google Business Profile where you keep your gas station’s information up to date, such as address, phone number, and hours. You don’t want a customer driving to your store because Google says you’re open when you’re closed.

4. Sponsor Community Events or Teams

If you’re looking for creative gas station promotion ideas, turn to your local community! Community events or local sports teams can be a powerful tool for gas stations to build brand awareness, foster goodwill, and integrate into the local community. Sponsorship can enhance your business’s public image and create lasting customer relationships.

5. Offer Deals on Paired Products

What products sell the most? And which ones are frequently bought together? Boost sales and increase customer satisfaction by offering deals on partnered products. Maybe customers receive a $1 donut if they buy a cup of coffee or a discounted fountain drink and hotdog combo. These deals can encourage customers to make a bigger purchase while also earning the loyalty of customers who already purchase these pairings.

6. Prioritize Visual Appeal

Visual appeal is the cornerstone of gas station advertising. The appearance of your gas station, both inside and out, plays a pivotal role in attracting and retaining customers.

A clean, well-lit, and inviting exterior can make a great first impression and influence drivers to stop by for a refuel and snacks. Regular maintenance and cleaning also convey a sense of safety and reliability. Customers are more likely to trust and return to a gas station that appears well-cared for and secure.

You also want to ensure the interior is clean, well-lit, and organized. Customers should feel comfortable browsing your c-store products and easily find what they’re looking for. Don’t forget about the bathrooms! Clean, well-stocked restrooms are essential for customer satisfaction, especially if you’re on a major highway or in a tourist area.

7. Ask for Customer Reviews (And Respond to Them!)

Many customers check online reviews before deciding which gas station to visit, especially in unfamiliar areas. These reviews can make or break a customer’s decision to stop by your gas station.

Ask your loyal customers to leave positive reviews on Google, Yelp, and other websites. But don’t just set them and forget them. Actively engage with online reviews — including the negative ones. Addressing concerns and showing appreciation for positive feedback can enhance customer loyalty and encourage repeat business.

8. Provide Exceptional Service

Wondering how to advertise a gas station? Let your customers do it for you! Training your staff to provide unbreakable customer service can lead to high customer satisfaction and positive word of mouth.

If a customer stops by and has a great experience with a clean store, fast checkout, and positive employee interaction, they’re more likely to recommend your gas station to their friends and family. Running a successful gas station means creating a seamless, positive experience that encourages repeat business and builds a loyal customer base.

You Handle the Marketing, Venture Fuels Handles the Gas

Attracting customers to your gas station is just half the battle. You need to keep them happy once they’re at your store. The last thing you want is for them to choose your gas station over the competition and leave because you’re out of fuel. Ensure you’re always stocked and ready for business with Venture Fuels. We offer reliable wholesale fuel delivery with competitive pricing. Get in touch today.