It's the end of the road for plummeting pump prices. After a record price decline that lasted 123 days nationwide, gas costs are climbing once again, and fast.
According to AAA, the last two days have marked the swiftest spike since March 2011.
In the Reading area, drivers are paying an average of $2.33, more than 10 cents above the price one week ago.
"I don't like it at all," said Berthy Smith. "It should be coming down!"
At the Lukoil in West Reading, gas is $2.39, nearly 20 cents higher than it was four days ago, said franchise owner Hamid Chaudhry.
"It's kind of mind-boggling as a dealer because we didn't expect that," Chaudhry said.
It's a hike that hits customers, as well as purveyors. According to Chaudhry, less money saved outside means less money spent inside at the station's convenience store.
"When the prices go up, they spend a lot less money in the store, and that's where gas stations make their money. We don't make any money on the gas. We make our money by selling food," he said. "As it is, Berks County is one of the more expensive gas in the area, so this is a double whammy."
As for what's causing the increase, AAA cites two factors: refinery issues and more stable crude oil prices.
While the price is expected to continue rising through February, drivers are still expected to pay a dollar less than they were paying last winter.
"I mean, I can remember when it was $4 a gallon, so this isn't too bad," said Ron Weiler of Reading.
Some drivers told 69 News they're simply happy for the days we had with declining costs.
"It was a nice break," said Pat Dolan, "but I don't think we expected it to stay there."
You can always find current gas prices around the region in the "pump picks" section of WFMZ.com.
from 69News:Home http://ift.tt/1zE1Rfk
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