An ongoing issue regarding the supply of gas has been unfolding across the United States, as diesel gas shipments have been harder to make with the recent shortage of drivers to deliver the gas. Along with issues regarding the hacking of the pipeline and the increasing price of gas, workers in the gas station business have been faced with a struggle to meet demands, with some unable to even supply their product as a result of these multiple occurrences.

In an interview with Deirdre “Dee” Cox, owner of the Weavers’ Gas and Oil gas station chain in West Portsmouth, an inside view was given on how the structure of the gas business, particularly Weavers, has been affected by the shortage of gas being delivered to their buildings. “Biannual maintenance and a major unforeseen breakdown at the refinery has brought available supply to a halt,” says Cox. As of now, only a few of the pumps at Weavers are functional, as the others have run dry through the shortage.

“The cost per gallon has increased considerably during the past three weeks and continues to increase nightly on the price list we are provided by our suppliers.” As demand increases, the price of gas has only been rising in cost more and more. Cox says that “cost has been a major aspect upset, and not being able to provide customers with product is a close second.” Cox has also stated that the absence of gas leads to an absence of customers and business. Though the station has other things to sell, its gas is the primary product that consumers shoot for.

Continuing with the decrease in product shipment, Cox has stated that the COVID-19 pandemic “has impacted suppliers all across the area,” which may lead to a decrease in sales for other gas stations that are affected by the decrease in both fuel and supplies. “Fast inflation is also another factor that coincides with the shortage of supplies. As things become scarcer, the price jumps up too,” says Cox.

Though the hard times persist, Cox is still attempting to give those who need gasoline the product that is essential for keeping businesses and workers in order. “I have enjoyed being able to help small businesses, farmers, loggers and other larger businesses such as hospitals, local fire departments and other industries obtain products at cheaper prices,” says Cox. “The most enjoyable part of owning a business is meeting and forming relationships with people from different backgrounds and coming together to build a lasting, personal and professional relationship.”

“The reports I am reading in regard to gas and diesel shortages indicate that this issue may continue indefinitely,” says Cox. The ongoing gas crisis may be here to stay, so those who commute frequently should keep an eye on their fuel tanks and manage their gas to avoid running on empty while traveling.