When you have a bunch of stores you do sign distribution deals with a nationwide distributor. If you buy enough fuel you might even be able to sign with an oil company that has refining capacity or their own distribution arm.
So Costco is definitely not paying the same price as your local convenience store. But they aren't getting a 35% discount either.
As many others have noted: Costco does not do loss-leaders. They're likely selling at cost or a very small profit above cost.
When we bought a house in 2021 I had 9.6kW of solar installed (and 20kWh of battery) and bought our first electric car. Since replaced it and have two electric cars now. At times like this I'm thankful for that. I make my own driving energy on my roof, covering over 80% of all driving and home electric usage.
So Costco is definitely not paying the same price as your local convenience store. But they aren't getting a 35% discount either.
As many others have noted: Costco does not do loss-leaders. They're likely selling at cost or a very small profit above cost.
When we bought a house in 2021 I had 9.6kW of solar installed (and 20kWh of battery) and bought our first electric car. Since replaced it and have two electric cars now. At times like this I'm thankful for that. I make my own driving energy on my roof, covering over 80% of all driving and home electric usage.