Why this New Brunswick gas station owner holds ‘gas sales’ to help the ‘little guy’

As gas prices across the Maritimes went up, N.B. gas station owner Johnny Khoury lowered his to cut some people a break. Laura Brown has more.

ISLAND VIEW, N.B. – A New Brunswick gas station owner says he’s trying to help the “little guy” by holding gas sales at his two retail locations.

On Friday, Johnny Khoury’s gas was going for $1.66 a litre, about eight cents cheaper than a station just up the road from one of his locations. He’s held random gas sales over the last several months since the price of fuel started seeing increases after the beginning of the Iran war.

Khoury claims it’s about wanting to help the little guy, while also admitting he’s not a fan of big business.

“Give them a break, because people can’t afford gas. That’s the biggest struggling thing in New Brunswick right now, and all of Canada,” he said.

The price of gas increased overnight Thursday for all three Maritime provinces. The Halifax-area saw the biggest increase at 10.5 cents, raising the new minimum of $1.77. It increased by four cents on Prince Edward Island, and 6.3 cents in New Brunswick, where the new maximum price is $1.78 cents per litre.

Khoury says that’s why some who were driving by his station ended up turning in.

“I was very impressed by the price. I was shocked, really,” said Brian Lavigne.

Some regular customers weren’t necessarily surprised. One called Khoury a “good guy” and “innovative,” saying he supports the community in other ways, too.

Khoury asserts he’s not making any money when he hosts a gas sale, but he does gain customers – which makes it worth it.

“Last Friday, I went down $0.19. Did I lose money? I lost major money, but I made money on other things and I benefit from it,” he said. “I enjoy doing it. I enjoy doing it for everybody. It puts on a smile on my face.”

The gas station owner also operates a water and ice business, and says he moves revenue from that operation to cover the losses at the pumps.

While appreciative, customers still lament – fuel prices are high.

“I’m retired. I’m on fixed income. And, I mean, you can feel it. You can really feel it,” said Lavigne.

There will be more gas sales, says Khoury – but it depends on the current price, the weather, and if he’s feeling up for it.