Lukoil Gas Topped $8 a Gallon in Central NJ on Wednesday

Some gas station owners say they, too, are being gouged at the gas pump.

While a gallon of gas continues to rise toward $4 a gallon, Lukoil owners say it is becoming more difficult for them to remain competitive in the market. That’s because they claim their suppliers charge them 5 to 20 cents more per gallon of gas, forcing them to pass the higher prices along to their customers.

On Wednesday Lukoil station owners in New Jersey, including two locations nearby on Route 1, and around the country staged a protest. They wanted to draw attention to the high prices they’re being forced to pay. But you may not believe their strategy.

NJ.com reported that, for 24 hours, some Lukoil gas stations raised their prices to $8 a gallon.

The station owners protested what NJ.com reported is the company’s “unjustified" pricing policies, according to Sal Risalvato, executive director of the New Jersey Gasoline Convenience-Automotive Association.

Lukoil’s pricing policies have caused some dealers to lose more than 50 percent of their volume, while others have “turned in their keys," Risalvato said.

Franchise owners at gas stations in New Jersey and Pennsylvania are hanging huge banners explaining the pricing situation to customers. The banners also urge customers to call Lukoil's offices as a way of pressuring the company to change its policies.