Gas Prices Down Thanks to Local Competition

As owner of one of the cities largest gas station companies Charles Bolton knows all about competition.

"Competition is the whole drive," Bolton said. "It's what drives everything."

He said it is the competition that determines the cost.

"Normally your largest competitor." Bolton said. "Whatever price he chooses to put on the street, then other people will normally follow him."

Bobby Tayse said the price is what has him buying has in Lubbock rather than his hometown.

"I live in Shallowwater and I noticed this morning gas prices went back up to $3.09 a gallon," Tayse said. "Still here in town they're like $2.94."

Bolton said it all comes down to what the consumers are willing to pay.

"People are interested in saving what they can because of the economy," Bolton said. "The more you save, the more something else you'll be able to do."

When it comes to choosing which station to get gas Bolton said it comes down to more than just money, but also convenience.

"Convenience is a big factor now more than it probably was 20 or 30 years ago," Bolton said. "Everyone is out for saving as much time as they can and we have the locations that we have to try and be convenient to the majority of the people."

Melody Dawes said that's why she comes to Bolton Oil to get gas.  

"I live really close to this particular station and they have a very competitive price," Dawes said. "So it's just easy for me to drop in here."

But Jonathan Beck said his reason does not have to do with time or money.  

"Well my pickup is diesel and not every station has diesel," Beck said. "So pretty much the closest station that has diesel."