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Fuel spills are high-stakes incidents. Whether at a gas station, logistics hub, or industrial facility, a spill can quickly escalate into a fire hazard, environmental crisis, or workplace accident if not handled immediately and correctly. Here’s what your team should do first during a fuel spill emergency:

Ensure Safety First

The very first step in any fuel spill emergency is to ensure the safety of everyone on site. All fueling operations should be stopped right away, and any potential ignition sources—such as running engines or nearby electrical equipment—must be shut off. If necessary, the affected area should be evacuated, especially in cases where fuel vapors are strong or the volume of the spill is significant.

Contain the Spill Quickly

Once safety is secured, the next step is containment. Fuel spreads quickly, and without the right tools on hand, it can reach storm drains or nearby soil in minutes. Your team must act fast to stop the spread by using containment berms, absorbent materials, or portable dikes. Drain covers should also be applied to protect nearby waterways from contamination. 

Notify the Right People

After the spill is under control, it’s important to notify the appropriate personnel. This includes your facility manager or safety officer, as well as local environmental authorities if the spill volume is high or has reached public areas. 

Begin Clean-Up

Cleanup should then begin using approved spill kits specifically designed for fuel. These kits typically include absorbent pads, gloves, disposal bags, and other tools to safely handle hazardous materials. If a tank or line is leaking, temporary repair kits can help reduce further damage while waiting for maintenance.

Review, Report, and Restock

Finally, after the situation is resolved, your company should conduct an internal review. Identify what caused the spill, restock used supplies, and retrain staff if any weaknesses were discovered during the response. 

Prevention is Better than Cure

Now let’s talk about the best solution. One of the smartest ways to minimize the risk of fuel spills is by preventing them in the first place. An Automatic Tank Gauge (ATG) is an essential tool for any fuel-handling facility. It continuously monitors tank levels and can detect changes that may indicate a leak, system failure, or even fuel theft. With this real-time data, operators can respond immediately to any irregularities—preventing small issues from turning into major incidents. 

Conclusion

Fuel spills require quick and effective action, and preparation makes all the difference. With trained staff, clear procedures, and the right equipment, your team can handle emergencies safely and efficiently. Prevention also plays a key role. TOIC Solutions helps improve fuel management by supporting businesses with tools like Automatic Tank Gauges, providing real-time visibility to detect issues early. With the right systems in place, you can avoid disruptions, protect your equipment, and keep your operations running smoothly.

Why Choose TOIC Solutions?

Trans-Overseas Industrial Corporation (TOIC) Solutions, established in 1976, has been the trusted partner for fuel dispensers, fuel pumps, service station equipment, and the gas station industry in the Philippines. As a leading distributor of advanced fueling technology, we provide reliable, efficient, and durable solutions that enhance the performance of your fueling operations.

With years of expertise and strong partnerships with multinational corporations, TOIC delivers top-quality products, including automatic tank gauging, tank calibration, wetstock management, POS service station systems, and tank testing. If you’re looking to upgrade your fueling system, reduce operational costs, and ensure precision in every transaction, TOIC Solutions is the name to trust. Talk to us!

In the hustle of a busy fuel station, employees are the backbone of smooth operations. From handling fuel dispensers and pumps to managing customer service and ensuring safety, staff play a crucial role in every aspect of a station’s success. However, without proper training, the risks of mistakes, accidents, and inefficiency can grow quickly.

So, why does training matter so much in a fuel station environment? The answer lies in safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Well-trained staff reduce risks, enhance efficiency, and improve service quality—key factors in keeping customers satisfied and returning consistently. Here’s how effective training makes all the difference.

Preventing Hazards and Ensuring Safety

Handling fuel is risky, which is why proper training is essential. Trained staff who spot early signs like leaks or odd noises can respond quickly, preventing bigger issues and ensuring safety. They know how to handle emergencies calmly, from shutting down equipment to guiding people to safety. This kind of readiness keeps the station safe for everyone.

Streamlining Daily Operations

Fuel station staff handle a lot—from using POS systems to monitoring tanks—and proper training makes it all more efficient. When employees are confident with the tools and tech, mistakes are minimized and tasks get done faster. Accurate wetstock management also means better planning and fewer surprises, keeping the station running smoothly every day.

Enhancing Customer Experience

Great service starts with a capable team. When staff are well-trained, they handle everything from fuel dispensing to payment processing with ease, creating a faster and more pleasant experience for customers. Their efficiency keeps lines moving and resolves issues quickly. A clean, organized station builds customer trust and encourages repeat visits.

Complying with Regulations

Fuel stations operate under strict regulations to ensure safety and environmental protection. Tasks like tank calibration and testing must be done regularly, and trained staff play a key role in carrying them out or supporting inspections. When employees understand compliance, they help avoid fines and prevent costly shutdowns. This also supports environmental protection and smooth operations.

Protecting Your Equipment and Investments

Fuel station equipment is a major investment, and keeping it in good shape starts with proper training. When staff know how to use, maintain, and spot early issues with tools like dispensers and gauges, they help prevent breakdowns. Regular care and preventative maintenance not only reduce repair costs but also keep operations running without interruption.

Conclusion

Training your fuel station staff is more than just an operational necessity—it’s an investment in the long-term success of your business. Well-trained staff improve safety, efficiency, customer service, and compliance, while also safeguarding your equipment and your reputation.

At TOIC, we offer specialized training that covers everything from fuel pumps and automatic tank gauging systems to emergency protocols and customer service. Our programs are designed to keep your fuel station running safely, smoothly, and profitably.

Why Choose TOIC Solutions?

Trans-Overseas Industrial Corporation (TOIC) Solutions, established in 1976, has been the trusted partner for fuel dispensers, fuel pumps, service station equipment, and the gas station industry in the Philippines. As a leading distributor of advanced fueling technology, we provide reliable, efficient, and durable solutions that enhance the performance of your fueling operations.

With years of expertise and strong partnerships with multinational corporations, TOIC delivers top-quality products, including automatic tank gauging, tank calibration, wetstock management, POS service station systems, and tank testing. If you’re looking to upgrade your fueling system, reduce operational costs, and ensure precision in every transaction, TOIC Solutions is the name to trust. Talk to us!

Summer is the most demanding time for fuel stations. Long queues, high fuel turnover, and rising customer expectations push operations to their limits. A short delay or a single tank error can result in major setbacks. This is where the TLS4B automatic tank gauges steps in, serving not only as a monitoring tool but as an essential system that keeps everything running smoothly even during peak demand.

Real-Time Monitoring That Keeps You Moving

The TLS4B offers continuous visibility into your tank levels, alarms, deliveries, and system health. Instead of waiting for something to go wrong, you get alerts before an issue impacts service. This means no guessing, no surprises, just uninterrupted operations. Especially during peak hours, that kind of proactive management can save thousands in downtime and lost sales.

Remote Access from Anywhere

Whether you’re on-site or remote, you’re always in command. The TLS4B offers a secure web interface and mobile-friendly access, allowing you to monitor fuel levels, adjust settings, review reports, and handle alarms in real time. No more emergency visits to the site or late-night calls. Stay connected, updated, and prepared, no matter your location.

Smarter Permissions, Safer Operations

The Automatic Tank Gauge (ATG) includes a role-based access control feature that lets you assign specific user permissions within the system. This means you can control who can view reports, change settings, or respond to alarms—based on their role and responsibility. It keeps your team efficient and helps prevent unauthorized changes or accidental errors. During busy summer shifts, when things can get chaotic, this simple setup brings much-needed structure and protection to your site operations.

Built-In Protection That’s Always On

TLS4B isn’t just smart, it’s secure. It features encrypted access and regular system updates to guard against cyber threats. With multiple ethernet ports, it also allows network traffic separation, protecting sensitive information and improving speed. It’s built with the future in mind, ready for the challenges of a connected fueling environment.

Automated Reports That Save Time

Say goodbye to manual tracking. TLS4B automates daily inventory, delivery, and compliance reports. These ready-to-access reports free up your staff to focus on customers instead of paperwork, especially useful during peak summer hours when speed and service matter most.

Less Downtime. More Control.

Downtime during the summer rush isn’t just inconvenient, it can seriously disrupt your operations. TLS4B helps prevent problems before they start. From low fuel warnings to delivery inconsistencies and alarm management, you’re covered. You get peace of mind knowing your system works with you and not against you.

By upgrading to a smarter tank gauge system, you gain the tools to operate confidently even in the busiest conditions. With better visibility, faster response, tighter security, and less manual work, TLS4B helps your station perform at its best when demand is at its highest.

Why Choose TOIC Solutions?

Trans-Overseas Industrial Corporation (TOIC) Solutions, established in 1976, has been the trusted partner for fuel dispensers, fuel pumps, service station equipment, and the gas station industry in the Philippines. As a leading distributor of advanced fueling technology, we provide reliable, efficient, and durable solutions that enhance the performance of your fueling operations.

With years of expertise and strong partnerships with multinational corporations, TOIC delivers top-quality products, including automatic tank gauging, tank calibration, wetstock management, POS service station systems, and tank testing. If you’re looking to upgrade your fueling system, reduce operational costs, and ensure precision in every transaction, TOIC Solutions is the name to trust. Talk to us!

Given the growing demand for fuel in the Philippines, starting a gasoline station can be a lucrative business. However, running a successful operation requires careful planning and the right equipment. Moreover, whether you’re just starting out or expanding your business, clearly understanding the essential equipment needed is crucial for long-term success. Here’s a guide to the key equipment required for operating a gasoline station in the Philippine market.

Fuel Storage Tanks

Fuel storage tanks are essential for gasoline stations, designed to store fuels like gasoline, diesel, LPG, and other petroleum products. Manufacturers must design them with safety and environmental considerations to ensure leak-proof construction and meet regulatory compliance. Proper installation and maintenance are key to preventing fuel contamination and environmental hazards.

Pump Systems

Fuel dispensers are essential for delivering fuel to customers. Modern stations use self-service pumps for convenience and indoor pumps operated by staff. Investing in high-quality dispensers ensures accurate measurements, reduces wastage, and enhances customer satisfaction.

Payment Terminals

Modern gasoline stations require advanced payment terminals that accept various methods, including credit/debit cards, mobile payments, and contactless transactions. Secure and efficient payment processing reduces wait times and enhances customer convenience.

Storage Tank Monitoring and Control Systems

Fuel management is crucial for preventing losses and ensuring compliance. Storage tank monitoring systems track fuel levels, detect leaks, and monitor temperature fluctuations. Many modern systems feature automatic alarms, allowing operators to address issues promptly and minimize risks.

Fuel Distribution Systems

An efficient fuel distribution system ensures a safe and uninterrupted fuel supply from storage tanks to dispensers. Pipelines, valves, and pressure control mechanisms must be properly installed and regularly maintained to prevent leaks, reduce fuel wastage, and maintain smooth operations.

Environmental Protection Equipment

Gasoline stations must minimize their environmental impact by using protection equipment like leak detectors, underground coatings, spill containment systems, and vapor recovery systems. These measures help prevent soil and groundwater contamination while ensuring regulatory compliance.

Security Cameras and Lighting

A well-lit and secure gasoline station is essential for customers and employees. High-resolution security cameras deter theft, monitor activities, and provide evidence if needed. Adequate lighting improves visibility and enhances safety, especially during nighttime operations.

Fire Suppression Equipment

Due to the flammable nature of fuel, fire safety is a top priority. Gasoline stations should be equipped with fire suppression systems, including extinguishers, hoses, and automated alarms. Staff should be properly trained to handle fire emergencies effectively.

Emergency Equipment

Every gasoline station should have emergency response equipment, including first aid kits, spill containment materials, and emergency shut-off switches. Being well-prepared helps protect customers and employees while ensuring regulatory compliance.

Final Thoughts

Starting a gasoline station in the Philippines requires more than just securing a location and fuel supply. Investing in the right equipment, such as modern fuel dispensers, a reliable Point of Sale (POS) system, and essential safety features, ensures operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and regulatory compliance, helping you establish a successful business in the competitive fuel industry.

Why Choose TOIC Solutions?

Trans-Overseas Industrial Corporation (TOIC) Solutions, established in 1976, has been the trusted partner for fuel dispensers, fuel pumps, and service station equipment, and the gas station business in the Philippines. As a leading distributor of advanced fueling technology, we provide reliable, efficient, and durable solutions that enhance the performance of your fueling operations.

With years of expertise and strong partnerships with multinational corporations, TOIC delivers top-quality products, including automatic tank gauging, tank calibration, wetstock management, and POS service station systems, and tank testing. If you’re looking to upgrade your fueling system, reduce operational costs, and ensure precision in every transaction, TOIC Solutions is the name to trust. Talk to us!

In industries that rely on fuel storage and distribution, accurate tank gauging is essential for operational efficiency, safety, and compliance. Traditionally, businesses have used manual tank gauging. However, with advancements in technology, Automatic tank gauging (ATG) systems are becoming the preferred choice. If your company still depends on manual methods, here’s why it’s time to consider an upgrade.  

Understanding Manual and Automatic Tank Gauging

Manual tank gauging involves physically measuring fuel levels using a dipstick or sounding tape. While it may seem simple, it’s prone to human error, time-consuming, and requires manual record-keeping.  

On the other hand, automatic tank gauging systems utilize sensors and digital monitoring to provide real-time data on fuel levels, temperature, and potential leaks. They work with software to automate reporting and instantly alert operators to any discrepancies. 

Manual vs. Automatic Tank Gauging

Accuracy and Reliability

Manual readings are often affected by human error, such as misreading measurements or inconsistent recording practices. Meanwhile, ATG systems eliminate these inaccuracies by providing precise, automated readings that ensure fuel levels are monitored with high reliability.  

Time and Labor Efficiency

Manual gauging requires employees to physically check each tank, which can be labor-intensive and time-consuming. ATG systems, alternatively,  automate the process, freeing up manpower for more critical tasks and reducing the risk of operational delays.  

Safety and Compliance

Handling fuel manually increases exposure to hazardous materials, which poses health and safety risks. On the contrary,  automatic tank gauging minimizes the need for direct contact, enhancing workplace safety. Additionally, regulatory bodies require accurate fuel monitoring, and automatic systems help businesses stay compliant by providing real-time data logs and automated reports.  

Leak Detection and Environmental Protection

Undetected fuel leaks can lead to environmental hazards and financial losses. Manual gauging makes it difficult to identify small leaks promptly. Automatic tank gauging systems, in contrast, include leak detection features, ensuring early warnings that help prevent contamination and costly cleanups.  

Cost Savings in the Long Run

While manual gauging may appear cost-effective initially, the expenses associated with human errors, labor costs, and potential fuel losses add up over time. Automatic tank gauging systems offer long-term savings by reducing discrepancies, preventing fuel theft, and optimizing inventory management.  

Why Now Is the Right Time to Upgrade

As businesses strive for greater efficiency and accuracy, switching to an automatic tank gauging system is a smart investment. With automated tracking, real-time alerts, and enhanced security, companies can improve operational efficiency, reduce risks, and stay ahead of regulatory requirements.

Why Choose TOIC Solutions?

Trans-Overseas Industrial Corporation (TOIC) Solutions, established in 1976, has been the trusted partner for fuel dispensers, fuel pumps, and service station equipment, and the gas station business in the Philippines. As a leading distributor of advanced fueling technology, we provide reliable, efficient, and durable solutions that enhance the performance of your fueling operations.

With years of expertise and strong partnerships with multinational corporations, TOIC delivers top-quality products, including automatic tank gauging, tank calibration, wetstock management, and POS service station systems, and tank testing. If you’re looking to upgrade your fueling system, reduce operational costs, and ensure precision in every transaction, TOIC Solutions is the name to trust. Talk to us!

It is critically important for businesses to be able to connect remotely to their tank gauges and retrieve data about the status of their fueling sites. For companies with only a few sites, who need an immediate connection to data, the remote access features of the TLS4 Series Automatic Tank Gauges(ATGs) are convenient options. These free features allow you to check the status of your sites, viewing data for one tank gauge at a time.

The remote access tools available for the TLS-450PLUS, TLS4 and TLS4B ATGs include features such as:

Direct connection through the Web-Enabled Interface

The Web-Enabled Interface for the TLS4 Series provides browser-based access to the ATG with almost all functionality that is available on the TLS graphical user interface. More information on the features and benefits of Web-Enabled can be found here.

The web interface allows for the secure transport of data from almost any connected device, which makes it easier to access the console data remotely. It is key to ensure the network provides the security your organization needs to protect its consoles while still allowing the access needed.

Multiple networking options are supported, including basic IP setup, Routing Tables, and Port Configuration. The TLS4 Series ATGs support the last three versions of the major browsers including Chrome, Edge, Fire Fox and Internet Explorer.

Connecting to The REMOTE VIEW or The PLUS VIEW mobile applications

The REMOTE VIEW application is available on Android and iOS mobile devices for accessing inventory, delivery and alarm data real-time, as it is continuously connected to the automatic tank gauge. While The PLUS VIEW application is similar to THE REMOTE VIEW, it is intended for more mobile applications. It automatically pulls data every 15 minutes for checking status without pulling a constant stream of data. Both The REMOTE VIEW and The PLUS VIEW support a maximum of five simultaneous users.

While The PLUS VIEW gives you access to a Station Overview, Report Tab, and Map View, The REMOTE VIEW gives you these functions, and: Real-Time Updates, One Touch Alarms, Notifications, all of which are formatted for in-store viewing.

The information needed for remote access

Whether you are connecting to the TLS4 Series ATGs through the Web-Enabled Interface, THE REMOTE VIEW or THE PLUS VIEW apps, there is certain information required for setting up remote access to your site data. There is also additional information that is optional but recommended for an optimal user experience.

For more information about our products, please visit our page at https://www.toicsolutions.com/products/.

Relying on manual gauge stick or dipstick measurements for wet stock inventory data introduces inaccuracy into your record-keeping and are potentially hazardous to employees.

Faulty Measurement Processes

With daily deliveries and frequent dispensing activity, the fuel level within the tank is constantly changing. Ripples in the tank from deliveries and tank tilt significantly limit the reliability of stick measurements. With so much going on it can be easy to rush measurements, misread the dipstick, or transpose data incorrectly, introducing errors because of the manual process for measurement.

Tank Chart Errors

A stick reading is only useful if it is being compared to an accurate tank chart. With no way to calibrate the measurements and systematically compare them to previous data, there are few options for ensuring accuracy. While tank charts do not cause a loss of fuel, an inaccurate tank chart will affect inventory and delivery data collected and could contribute to masking actual fuel losses. In fact, many discrepancies in fuel recording and variance reporting are the result of poor data capture because tank charts do not accurately represent how fuel is situated in the tank.

Manual Data Handling

Manual dipstick measurements also lead to manual data handling which introduces transposing errors and makes it difficult to compare or compile data across multiple fuel sites. In many cases, owners with multiple sites end up working in large spreadsheets and calling around to all their sites for point in time measurements that are then subject to faulty manual measurements. The process compounds the opportunity for errors and masks more serious fuel variance issues.

Employee Safety Concerns

When employees open the sump to take measurements, they are repeatedly exposed to harmful fuel vapors that can impact their health over time. The quiet, less busy, times on the site that are best for measuring tank volumes are frequently at night or early in the morning when visibility is low. This adds to the likelihood of a mis-read measurement, but also presents a safety concern that employees may not be visible to drivers on the forecourt. Depending on the size and depth of the sump there is also a safety concern with leaning directly over the open sump to take the measurement from an open port, increasing the likelihood that an employee could fall into the sump space.

Kick-off your gasoline station operations this 2021. Visit our website at www.toicsolutions.com to learn more!

The TLS Express Inventory Solution retrofits into existing sites and automates your wet stock inventory management process, eliminating paperwork, emails, and text messages. It gives you real-time visibility to fuel inventory from anywhere.

When thinking about adding an automatic tank gauge or ATG to your fuel site, you should take into account the following considerations.

Are you looking to avoid fuel stock-outs?

Fuel stock-outs stop operations at the site and cost you customers and in-store traffic, causing a loss of revenue that cannot be recovered. Adding an ATG to your fueling site can maximize your productivity by allowing you to better predict your fuel usage and stay ahead of costly fuel stock-outs.

Do you want details about your wet stock inventory variance?

A fuel variance is the difference between the amount of fuel available in a tank at any given time, according to recorded deliveries and sales, and the actual amount of fuel available in the tank. Fuel variances can be positive or negative. Whether through delivery discrepancy, inaccurate manual dipstick measurements, theft, or storage tank leaks, fuel variances could be costing your business and inaccurate inventory tracking could be masking a more serious issue.

Do you want peace of mind about your tank integrity?

Veeder-Root ATG systems include compliance and testing features that monitor for, and detect, leaks within your fueling system. For most fuel sites, the gas in the tank is the most expensive asset on site. Storage tank leaks are not just bad for the environment and community, they are costly for owners.

Are you looking to prevent overfills?

Tank overfills are detrimental to site safety, but the potential for an overfill event can be easily mitigated with an ATG. The TLS4B will display the ullage space (aka unfilled space) inside the tank so you can be sure the delivery will fit.

Would you like to accurately check site inventory levels remotely?

For many busy site owners, it can be hard to check in on the status of their business while they are off-site. Veeder-Root TLS4 Series automatic tank gauges are equipped to help owners access critical data while they are off-site using our free mobile phone and web-enabled applications. Easily access console data from anywhere at any time.

Add one of three of our Veeder-Root TLS Express Bundles to your fuel site and quickly and affordably automate your fuel management process.

We’ve entered a new year with new opportunities. This is a year for reinvention! And speaking of reinventing, gasoline stations are one of the fastest-growing businesses in terms of sales and fast pace opportunities for customers. And at the end of the day, refining the customer experience has become critical attention across all businesses especially in service-related industries.

For the longest time, the fuel and convenience store industry has become essential in how it wants to engage, interact, and transact with its customers or else fall to the wayside with the competition. A gasoline station provides a valuable opportunity that offers solutions to improve the overall customer experience and integrate innovative customer journeys. In this blog, we offer you four ways to reinvent your gasoline station through an elevated consumer experience.

Provide Overall Gasoline Pump Satisfaction

When entering a gasoline station, are your gasoline pump areas clean, free of litter and trash? Keeping your gasoline station trash-free gives your consumers the first impression that this is a gasoline station that is well maintained and well operated. 

Just as well, providing gasoline pump satisfaction is one of the first steps in the business-meets-customer relationship at your gasoline station. Top gasoline stations find themselves at the forefront of the list because they train their service station attendants in maintaining gasoline pump satisfaction. While there are days that it needs to be fixed by changing the filters, the nozzle, or other equipment, this also means that you have to upgrade your gasoline pumps and fuel dispensers every now and then. 

To know where to upgrade your fuel pumps and dispensers, TOIC Solutions offers the best equipment for gasoline pumps and fuel dispensers that will satisfy your operations and at the same time that applies a faster approach that appeals to your customer.

Convenience Store is your Destination

Having a gasoline station brings revenues but setting a convenience store next to your service station is an investment. When it comes to customer satisfaction, having a c-store would give your customers an excellent service experience. In the long run, aside from your gasoline station, your c-store should also be a destination and not a “pit stop”. It is a big game-changer when you streamline your in-store process and focus on your stock because it encourages your customers to come back for more and at the same time attract new customers who may just be passing by. 

Unified and Personalized Shopping Experience

Adapting technology across the customer journey will empower you to offer a more convincing and frictionless experience.  This can work better in your point of sale (POS) system, kiosks, self-checkout stations, and mobile commerce.

At your gasoline pumps and dispensers, you provide better ease and security of payments by offering cashless transactions and this will create a better shopping experience for your customers. This innovation has allowed more and more industries to create faster yet secured transactions. Expect digital technologies to improve retail experiences in the years to come. Make sure your operations don’t get left behind with the latest technology that helps consumers spend conveniently. 

Choices and Additional Services

To increase foot traffic to your gasoline station, provide needs that go beyond fueling. Offering services such as car wash, air, water, food courts, and more will get people to stop and spend more besides just filling up. Always be on the lookout for anything customers might need which may result in bigger revenue for your gasoline station. 

Reinventing your gasoline station would take a big risk but with proper research and customer satisfaction information, all can be done in the most possible way to increase revenue and attract more customers. Aside from knowing your customer’s needs, your needs should be taken into consideration also. And by needs, we meant your service station equipment such as gasoline pumps, fuel dispensers, underground tank maintenance, and many more.

Look no further than TOIC Solutions. As a reliable partner and supplier in the Petroleum industry, TOIC provides turn-key solutions for our clients from logistics, warehousing, delivery, installation, commissioning, and service of its equipment. We have products for gasoline pumps and fuel dispensers, Automatic Tank Gauge, convenience retailing, and more. And with services such as tank calibration and tank testing, your gasoline station needs are in one website. Contact us to learn more!

A lot of motor vehicle owners make use of gas, especially with logistics and transportation means. Because demand for fuel does not go away, gasoline stations are always a good business franchise or investment. 

Due to the high market barrier to entry as well as the high costs of capital, a franchise for gas stations is more appealing compared to starting one yourself. The best advantage that comes with franchised stations is because there is already name recognition, trademarks, franchise agreements,s and more. All future business ventures and investments always require due research and diligence before jumping right into it, making it important to check for the advantages and disadvantages. 

Being a franchisee entails different sets of rules and responsibilities. Similar to any franchise, there are some set factors to consider: 

• Terms of the franchise agreement 
• Any quotas or requirements for fuel sales 
• Ownership and maintenance of fuel tanks and pumps 

We have rounded up factors for you to consider before you become a franchisee of a gas station. 

How is the environmental history of the gasoline station? 

Environmental concerns are critical as any concerns such as environmental contamination discovered after the station is bought will require an expensive remedy that can shut down and potentially hurt future operations. Contamination is an issue that businesses must protect themselves from. 

Factors to be evaluated should include: 

• Laws about gas stations 
• The mandatory requirements for the tanks and other gas station equipment 
• Results of an environmental site assessment evaluating the history of the property 

Will you have a convenience store? 

The main product of course is the fuel but not so known to a vast majority of people, the margins on selling gas are low which means gas stations make money via other means. One of these is via the convenience store. This is the reason why convenience stores and gas stations often come in pairs together. Products from convenience stores such as soda, chips, candy, and cigarettes can bring in big revenue. 

Does the seller own gasoline pumps and tanks? 

These serve as the most important assets used in gasoline stations and are directly related to your operation. These are important investments for any gas station but it is not always the case that sellers of the gas station own the pumps and tanks. In some cases, it is owned by the national franchisor for the stations that are franchised or the owner of the property. The things you can consider could be: who owns the “pumps and tanks”, whether the sale includes the transfer of the ownership, and the repair history of pumps and tanks. Another similar thing you can look into is the terms of the property where the station is located when it is leased and what are the agreements to come out about this. 

Risks of a gasoline station investment 

All business ventures have their own share of risk. It is crucial to know this to know what you are getting yourself into as a way to properly mitigate the risks. For gas stations, they have their own distinct risks. Part of this is that the success of the business depends on the traffic. Knowing the long-term plans for the area where you want to open your station is one thing. Are their plans for commercial development? Is there going to be construction nearby? Long construction projects can hamper the traffic going to your station while commercial development of the area can prove to make your location more viable given its proximity to upcoming key areas. 

Quite possibly the most important part is having a business plan to come with your gas station purchase. This not only gives you a focus but also the right direction and makes the transition much easier. 

As a reliable partner and supplier in the Petroleum industry, TOIC provides turn-key solutions for our clients from logistics, warehousing, delivery, installation, commissioning, and service of its equipment. We have products for gasoline pumps and fuel dispensers, Automatic Tank Gauge, convenience retailing, and more. And with services such as tank calibration and tank testing, your gasoline station needs are in one website. Learn more about how gas stations work by checking out more of our blogs. TOIC Solutions is an expert when it comes to gas station solutions. Contact us now to learn more.