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Why We Often Buy More Than Just Gas | Sunoco

 

 

Gas stations have become more than places to fill your tank. For many drivers, they’re a convenient stop for everyday needs—coffee, snacks, bottled water, or a quick stretch. The next time you're searching for a gas station near you, you may be thinking about more than just fuel.

At Sunoco, we recognize that drivers often expect more from their stop. Our locations are designed to deliver both what you need and what you didn’t realize you wanted—fast, clean, and all in one place.

 

A Stop That Solves More Than One Problem

Fueling is just the beginning. Gas stations now function as one-stop shops, meeting a variety of on-the-go needs. From restrooms and refreshments to car care and quick errands, drivers are increasingly relying on these locations to cross off more than one task at a time.

According to the National Association of Convenience Stores, nearly 60 percent of customers who purchase fuel also go inside the store, and many of them buy something. Whether it's a cup of coffee, a pack of gum, or a lottery ticket, it's clear the convenience store portion of the visit is just as important.

Sunoco stations support this shift. Sunoco locations strive to make quick stops as easy and efficient as possible, especially when you’re searching for the nearest gas station during a busy day. With a clear store layout and key essentials stocked up front, you're in and out fast, without needing a second stop elsewhere.

 

Natural Choices on the Go

Drivers don’t always plan to buy more than gas, but the reality is, real life happens behind the wheel. You get thirsty. You forget something. You realize you’re hungry. And if you're commuting, traveling, or stuck in traffic, a small purchase can make a big difference.

What looks like an impulse buy is often a smart, timely decision. Academic research confirms that people are more likely to grab extras—especially food or drinks—when they’re stressed, tired, or in motion. These aren’t mistakes. They're part of making the trip more comfortable or convenient.

At Sunoco, we aim to meet those needs without overloading your options. You’ll find cold beverages near the entrance, snacks by the register, and useful extras like tissues, pain relievers, and windshield wipes when you need them most.

 

Designed Around How People Shop

Everything in a Sunoco location is arranged with purpose. While industry experts talk about product “placement tactics,” we look at it as a thoughtful organization. Our goal is to help customers quickly find what they’re most likely to need.

That means:

• Drinks and snacks at eye level for easy reach.
• Grab-and-go items close to checkout for convenience.
• Travel essentials placed where you’re likely to notice them without needing to search.

You’ll also find clear, simple signage—inside and out—that helps you navigate both the store and the pump area. This saves you time and creates a better experience without pressure or clutter.

 

The Appeal of Immediate Satisfaction

There’s something rewarding about grabbing a snack you like or sipping coffee just the way you want it. These aren’t “guilty pleasures.” They're quick, satisfying choices that make the road more manageable.

Research shows that these small moments of reward can boost mood, focus, and overall satisfaction. Whether you’re heading to work, road-tripping, or in between errands, a treat can be a practical reset. Drivers often choose Sunoco for this exact reason.

And if you care about what goes in your car as much as what goes in your cup, Sunoco also offers the highest octane fuel available at the pump*, Sunoco 94 Octane. Designed for performance vehicles, it’s a smart choice for drivers who want precision and engine stability with every fill-up.

 

Tools That Reward Good Habits

Modern convenience is more than products. It’s how you pay, how fast you can go, and whether you save along the way. Sunoco’s Go Rewards® and Sunoco Pay help drivers do just that.

These tools are:

• Easy to use with contactless payment at the pump.
• Integrated with reward tracking so you save while you fuel.
• Helpful for earning points that can be used toward future purchases.

Wondering what 94 octane is and whether it matters for your car? The Sunoco app and website offer clear explanations and recommendations, helping you make confident choices without needing to guess.

We believe in making things easier for people who are busy, distracted, or just trying to get home. That’s what smart loyalty is about—it should help, not overwhelm.

 

Familiar Stops, Trusted Choices

People tend to return to what works. Over time, small routines form: same gas station, same snack, same time of day. For some drivers, it’s a morning ritual. For others, it’s a reliable stop on a weekly route. These habits aren't accidental—they’re built on consistency, trust, and a smooth experience.

Sunoco stations are designed to be that kind of reliable stop. Clean restrooms, dependable fuel, clear signage, and helpful layouts mean customers know what to expect. And familiarity builds loyalty. When your stop feels easy, safe, and stocked with what you need, it becomes a natural part of your routine.
 

It’s More Than a Pit Stop, It’s Part of the Journey

Drivers don’t go to gas stations just to buy gas anymore. Whether it’s a coffee on your commute, a bottle of water after a workout, or a quick snack before school pickup, these stops are woven into daily life.

At Sunoco, we understand that. That’s why we design our stations with drivers in mind, not just their cars. With convenient layouts, thoughtful product selections, and helpful tools like Go Rewards, we make sure your stop works for your schedule, not the other way around.

So the next time you find yourself pulling into a Sunoco, know that you’re not just fueling up. You’re resetting, recharging, and grabbing what you need to keep going. Because real-life stops involve real-life needs, and we’re ready for all of them.

 

 

* Sunoco’s 94 Octane delivers the highest-octane rating sold at gas stations for purchase at the pump in the U.S.