BP pumps financial fuel into local stations

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Since the oil started leaking more than 70 days ago many drivers have decided to boycott their local BP gas stations. Now the oil giant is trying to help.

Some local franchise owners say their sales are down 40% since the April 20 oil rig explosion in the Gulf of Mexico. But there are more than 11,000 BP stations across the US. Most of them are owned by local businessmen who simply have a contract to buy BP gasoline and use their logo.

“They have all their life savings in their little franchises and so you can’t blame them nor boycott the local gas station,” said Carol Parker a local BP supporter.

To help, BP will give local BP brand stations cash, reduce credit card fees, and help with national advertising. The total investment is expected to be between $50 and $70 million.