I’m just curious about the basics of gas station operations. I get my gas at what seems to be a local, privately-owned gas station, but I asked the guy working there tonight and he said they have the same gas as 76, and are affiliated with them, but I see no sign of 76 anywhere. If anyone has any information on how gas stations operate, any general advice would be interesting. Thanks.
the answer is false
Gas stations can be franchised, company-owned or independent. Company-owned and franchised stations will have a prominent brand name (76, Exxon, etc.). Independent (privately-owned) stations can buy their gas from anyone, including from the big names. But since they are independent, they can’t use the brand names to label their gas stations, just like you can’t go out and buy Baskin Robbins ice cream and open a “Baskin Robbins store”. You can’t use their name without paying for it.
There aren’t all that many companies which refine gasoline so most independent stations are getting brand-name gas – but they can’t label it that way.