For many retailers in the industry, word-of-mouth referrals and a solid local reputation have long been the foundation of their success. But today’s propane customers are finding information – and making decisions regarding their fuel use – primarily online. Whether it involves comparing suppliers, reading reviews, or learning about safety and delivery options, the digital… Continue reading Digital Marketing: A Business Essential
Propane is one of the most versatile energy sources in the world. It powers homes, fuels farms, runs businesses, and supports industries of all kinds. But even though propane is used everywhere, not every customer uses it the same way. A family heating their home has very different needs than a farmer fueling equipment or… Continue reading Serving Every Type of Customer
In the propane business, managing both customer expectations and company finances can be challenging – especially in a market where energy prices shift from season to season. Customers want stable, predictable bills while propane retailers need strategies that safeguard profit margins and ensure consistent cash flow. Achieving both goals requires thoughtful planning and programs that… Continue reading Helping Customers While Protecting Margins
For decades, propane marketers relied on price and supply as their main competitive advantages. Whoever had the lowest rate or the fastest delivery time usually secured the sale. But as customer expectations evolve and operational costs rise, the industry is entering a new phase — one where exceptional service defines success more than gallons delivered.… Continue reading Competing Through Service, Not Just Supply
For decades, propane marketers relied on price and supply as their main competitive advantages. Whoever had the lowest rate or the fastest delivery time usually secured the sale. But as customer expectations evolve and operational costs rise, the industry is entering a new phase — one where exceptional service defines success more than gallons delivered.… Continue reading Competing Through Service, Not Just Supply
Propane companies across the nation face the same question from every community they serve: why does one provider charge more than another? For many business owners, setting a higher price feels risky, especially when competitors advertise lower rates. Yet, premium pricing isn’t always a disadvantage. When it’s supported by value, quality, and reliability, it can… Continue reading How Can You Justify Premium Pricing for Propane?
Every propane company has something that makes it stand out – something that customers notice, employees feel, and competitors respect. Sometimes, though, it can be difficult to explain exactly what that is. That’s where a “one word” value exercise can help. It’s a simple but powerful way to uncover the true core of your business. By identifying one word that captures what your company stands for, you give your team and your customers a clear sense of who you are and what you believe in. The propane industry is built on trust, reliability, and service. But beyond those common traits, every business has its own character. Some are known for…
Every propane business serves many kinds of customers, from homeowners who rely on propane for heating to commercial accounts that use it to power their operations. However, not all customers have the same needs, habits, or expectations. Some are loyal and consistent, while others shop for the lowest price and switch suppliers frequently. Knowing the… Continue reading Who Is Your Ideal Propane Customer?
Every propane business depends on one simple truth: customers make choices every day that affect how much propane they use, when they refill, and whether they will remain loyal to their fuel supplier. These choices are shaped by habits, convenience, price sensitivity, and trust. When you understand what factors influence these decisions, you can better… Continue reading Customer Habits Shape Business Success
Running a propane business comes with its own set of financial challenges. Prices rise and fall, demand shifts with the seasons, and smaller retailers often face tighter margins compared to larger competitors. The unpredictability of weather, global energy markets, and operating costs can make long-term financial planning difficult. In order to remain stable and profitable,… Continue reading Strengthening Financial Stability for Small Businesses
In today’s propane industry, great products and fair pricing are no longer enough to stay ahead. What truly sets successful propane companies apart is the way they treat their customers. A customer-centric corporate culture means putting people first, listening carefully to their needs, solving their problems quickly, and striving to make every interaction a positive… Continue reading Putting Customers at the Heart of Propane Service
As propane businesses prepare for the upcoming winter demand, managing pricing and cash flow becomes a top priority. One effective strategy that greatly benefits both companies and customers is offering early-buy and pre-buy programs. These plans create financial stability ahead of the heating season while strengthening client relationships built on trust and predictability. Building Stability… Continue reading The Financial Advantage of Early-Buy and Pre-Buy Programs
Every propane company sells fuel, but not every company connects with customers in the same way. Some are known for fast delivery, others for creative marketing, and others for personalized service. What sets one company apart from the rest is called its Unique Selling Proposition (USP), the clear reason customers should choose your business over… Continue reading Defining What Sets Your Propane Business Apart
As the heating season begins, clear communication with customers becomes just as important as delivering fuel. When customers know what to expect, they feel more confident in their propane provider and are better prepared for cold weather. For propane businesses, proactive communication not only builds trust but also reduces last-minute calls and service disruptions. Setting… Continue reading Keeping Your Customers Informed and Prepared
Propane companies often focus on fuel delivery as their main service, but relying on a single stream of income can leave you vulnerable to seasonal swings or changes in demand. Customers expect more than just a refill; they want convenience, reliability, and solutions that fit their daily lives. By offering additional propane-related services, you not… Continue reading Propane Service Diversification Strengthens Profits
Every business has a story, but often the most powerful ones come from within. Employees carry the experiences, values, and daily dedication that shape how a company operates. Sharing those stories publicly not only builds trust with customers but also creates an authentic voice that no advertisement can fully capture. When employees talk about their… Continue reading Employee Stories Enhance Marketing Efforts
For many propane retailers, increasing gallon sales is a top priority. But in today’s competitive market, success requires more than simply offering the lowest price. Building stronger customer relationships, providing reliable service, and looking for new opportunities can all make a measurable difference in growth. Go Beyond Price Competition While price will always matter to… Continue reading Growing Gallon Sales in the Propane Business
The propane and wider fuel delivery industry has always been essential, but running a business in this space is far from simple. Between rising costs, growing customer expectations, and stiff competition, many fuel companies find themselves struggling to balance efficiency with service. While demand for reliable delivery is steady, the systems and processes many businesses… Continue reading Transforming Fuel Delivery and Solving Industry Challenges
Running a propane business isn’t just about keeping tanks filled and customers satisfied. Behind every delivery truck and service call is the constant challenge of managing cash flow. When revenue is steady and predictable, a business can handle expenses, invest in growth, and weather seasonal changes. But when income slows down, even strong operations can… Continue reading Propane Revenue Stream Hacks Strengthen Cash Flow
Price changes are an unavoidable part of doing business, especially in industries that depend on global markets and seasonal demand. While customers may accept that prices can rise and fall, the way you manage these shifts can determine whether they remain loyal or start looking for other options. When handled poorly, even a small increase… Continue reading Keeping Customers When Prices Change
Propane cylinder refill stations are an essential part of many communities. From backyard grilling and camping to small business use, people depend on propane cylinders every day. Opening a refill station can be a smart move for entrepreneurs or propane companies looking to expand their services. It provides a steady stream of customers, builds long-term… Continue reading Propane Refill Stations: Steps for Safety and Success
On January 14, 2024, a devastating propane tank explosion rocked Wilderness Road in Copiah County, Mississippi, killing four people and injuring two others. The victims included 43-year-old Calvin “Benjy” Jordan, his son Houston “Bubba” Jordan, 18, his nephew Toler Jordan, 14, and family friend Jeremy Mitchell, 52. Survivors, Mitzi Jordan and Samantha Britt, suffered severe… Continue reading Copiah County Explosion – A Propane Industry Warning on Safety Failures (Part One)
Every decision you make as a propane business owner, from how you set your prices to how you handle safety concerns, shapes your reputation. In this industry, your name is tied to trust, and trust is built on ethics. Ethical business practices go beyond simply following the law. They are about acting in a way… Continue reading Ethical Practices Build Stronger Propane Businesses
Propane companies are always looking for ways to increase revenue while building stronger connections with their customers. Selling fuel is at the core of these businesses, but there are other opportunities that often go untapped. One of these is equipment rentals. From heaters and grills to generators and construction tools, propane-powered equipment is in high… Continue reading Equipment Rentals Create Steady Growth for Propane Businesses
A propane business is built on more than fuel, tanks, and trucks. It’s also built on trust, reputation, and the relationships you create within your community. People often choose propane providers not only for price and convenience but also for the company’s presence in their local area. Sponsoring community events and programs is one of… Continue reading The Value of Community Sponsorships for Propane Companies
Negative online reviews can feel like a punch in the gut, especially when you’ve worked hard to provide excellent service. In the propane industry, where trust, safety, and reliability are essential, a single poor review can feel like it overshadows dozens of positive ones. But the truth is, a negative review doesn’t have to harm… Continue reading Handling Negative Online Reviews With Professionalism
Missed calls can mean missed opportunities. Every time a customer’s call goes unanswered, there’s a chance they will turn to a competitor instead. Whether it’s because the office was busy, it was after hours, or the line was tied up, those calls still represent people who had a need and possibly a purchase waiting to… Continue reading How a Call-Back System Can Save Missed Sales
Energy markets always move up and down, and the propane industry is no exception. When prices trend higher, both businesses and households feel the impact on their budgets. But when propane prices move into a downtrend, the picture changes. Buyers often envision more room to plan, purchase, and invest with confidence. These time periods of… Continue reading Propane Buyers Gain More in a Market Downtrend
Delivery fees can be a sensitive topic for customers. While most people understand that delivering products and services costs money, the way you set and explain those fees can greatly affect how they feel about your business. If customers believe they’re paying too much or that the charges are unclear, trust can erode quickly. On… Continue reading Setting Delivery Fees That Keep Customers Happy
Trust isn’t something you can buy. It’s earned slowly, through every delivery, phone call, and handshake. If you’re running a propane business, you know how important trust is to your long-term success. It’s what brings customers back year after year, and it’s what turns a local business into a household name. But how do you… Continue reading The Secret to Becoming the #1 Name in Propane
