Gas stations are a common part of the landscape in the United States, but not all of them occupy the same place in drivers' minds. For decades, brands like Shell or Chevron set the pace in the sector, ensuring a stable presence on every corner and on thousands of highways. However, consumer habits are starting to tip the balance toward new players.
Nowadays, refueling is no longer just about filling the tank, but about making the most of every stop. That's why retail chains like Walmart and Costco have turned their pumps into part of a loyalty strategy. What began as an extension of their hypermarkets has now become a real challenge for the traditional giants.
Shell keeps its size, but Costco and Walmart move the lines
Shell remains the leader by number of stations, with about 13,496 operating in the U.S. (13,496) by mid-2025. Chevron holds second place with around 7,102 outlets (7,102), which still ensures it a massive presence compared to retail chains. But in the lines to refuel, the reality is different.
Costco has about 559 stations (559) and Walmart has more than 415 (415), a figure that will grow to about 450 (450) before the end of the year. Although the numbers are modest in comparison, their power lies in the prices. A savings of 25 cents per gallon makes many drivers willing to wait longer in line at a membership club.
The difference is also evident in the model. Costco is testing standalone stations, far from its warehouses, while Walmart is adding more than 45 projects (45) between new openings and remodels for 2025. The bet is clear: the pump is no longer an accessory, it's a magnet to attract traffic.
The local effect and real competition
The key lies in what happens in each neighborhood. When a Costco station opens, nearby businesses feel the pressure and respond with points programs or discounts with Shell and Chevron cards. The result is a constant tug-of-war, where customer loyalty depends as much on price as on added services.
On a national scale, the market remains highly fragmented. More than 152,000 convenience stores (152,000) operate in the country, and more than 121,000 (121,000) sell fuel. That means that, even if Walmart and Costco grow, direct competition is fierce and absolute dominance is far from being consolidated.
The consumer is the biggest winner in this scenario. With more options available, prices tend to drop in areas where a big-box pump appears. The final decision depends on how each driver prefers to manage their expenses: Costco memberships, Walmart+ discounts, or promotions with Shell and Chevron cards.
The truth is that retailers haven't dethroned traditional brands in terms of presence, but they have changed the map of priorities. Refueling is no longer measured only in miles traveled, but in cents saved and in the experience surrounding the stop. For now, that formula keeps Walmart and Costco as the choices for drivers who want to pay less without giving up convenience.