$1.99 for a Gallon of Gas? A Sheetz Offer for Thanksgiving | Eastern NC Now

    Publisher's Note: This post appears here courtesy of the John Locke Foundation. The author of this post is Brittany Raymer.

    Certain Sheetz gas stations are planning on offering $1.99 per gallon of gas this Thanksgiving holiday for its unleaded 88 blend, which contains 15% ethanol. This lower price will help families, which are struggling to afford gas, rent and food this Thanksgiving season.

    After two years of pandemic restrictions on the holiday season, it seems like this year is almost back to normal. AAA is reporting that traveling for Thanksgiving has reached 98% of pre-pandemic levels, with 54.6 million people planning on traveling over 50 miles away from their homes.

    When it comes to North Carolina, it seems that about 1.5 million are planning on traveling at least 50 miles to enjoy their holiday feasts.

    "Travel is still roaring back from the pandemic," said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA - The Auto Club Group. "While gas prices and other inflationary pressures weigh on budgets, travel remains a top priority for Americans, particularly during the holidays. Travel spending is at the highest level since the pandemic began, which is a driving force behind our projections this year. AAA expects busy roads and long lines at the airport, so leave early and be flexible with your travel plans."

    But gas prices remain a problem for families.

    The September 29th Civitas Poll reported that 56.5% of families were still finding it difficult to afford gas, which probably hasn't changed much. Though gas prices have come down to $3.332 from $3.466, it's still higher than the $3.209 from a year ago.

    For some families, the Sheetz offer may come as a lifeline.

    Until November 28, the company's gas stations throughout the state with 88 unleaded will offer a promotional price of $1.99 per gallon. It's a blend that contains 15% ethanol and can be safely used in most cars that have been built 2001 (of course, best to double check with the manufacturer). The current average is $2.69.

    This would save families on average $10.50.

    "Sheetz is a family owned and operated company and we are always looking for ways to help the communities we serve," said Travis Sheetz, President and CEO of Sheetz. "We are excited to extend this offer to our customers as many of them start hitting the road for the Thanksgiving holiday."

    Thanksgiving is a time to be with family and friends, and gas prices shouldn't be a hinderance.