
As you may know, I’ve written a few recent articles about the economy. Today I heard a new marketing technique that sneaky gas stations are doing.
Apparently, a few gas stations attract the public by promoting a lesser price per gas. However, with the price of gas increase this year, gas stations are aware that most consumers are paying with their credit cards, considering it takes a lot more money to fill up. Did you know that some gas stations are charging extra when using a credit card? Doesn’t surprise me one bit! For example, if you use a Visa you might have an increase of 2%. So as an example, if you thought you were paying $4.11 you would actually be charged $4.19. Hey, that .08 cent difference starts adding up, also consider the monthly fee your credit card is charging on top of that. Pretty expensive gas, I must say.
How to prevent this well, make sure that one, you check that the price match up on the screen when you swipe your card, and secondly check your receipt. This sounds tricky but it certainly real. Many gas stations lure the consumer that are paying with cash to come inside, instead of the little window. Many gas stations have a mini mart with yummy treats. Yes, I know each time I walk in I don’t only pay for gas but I grab a few goodies on the way as well, I’m sure I’m not the only one. But its a marketing technique.
How does this reflect a lead exchange? It’s related in an awkward way. We already know that a large number of consumers are in some serious credit card debt, well with the gas stations new marketing techniques this will increase consumers debt. Meaning, more consumers will be seeking help online to clear their unsecured debt. In addition, it reflects how marketing is not only done online, but everywhere you go. Driving a consumer in, will get them to spend. With our lead exchange we don’t mislead our prospects. The consumers are driven to our websites through extensive PPC campaigns and they are knowingly submitting a request to be contacted for a specific service.
I must admit, this was news to me when I first learned that some gas stations charge higher prices for gas when paying with a credit card.