Costco, Walmart pump record fuel sales as prices surge amid Iran tensions
High gasoline prices driven by U.S. military conflict with Iran are reshaping how Americans fuel up. Costco has set record fuel sales, with drivers visiting more frequently but buying fewer gallons per visit. At Walmart's pumps, customers are filling up with less than ten gallons at a time for the first time since 2022. Executives cite visible consumer stress, particularly among lower-income shoppers. Gas spending in April surged 21 percent year-over-year. Importantly, higher fuel costs are expected to eventually push up prices on store shelves because transportation and product costs rise together. The Strait of Hormuz blockade near Iran remains the critical factor, with energy officials warning prices could spike further. Retailers are adapting by drawing first-time discount shoppers, while consumers change purchasing patterns to stretch budgets.
Key facts
- Costco sold record amounts of fuel between April and mid-May 2026, requiring multiple daily deliveries
- Walmart customers filling under 10 gallons per visit for first time since 2022
- Gas station spending surged 21 percent in April 2026 compared to April 2025
- U.S. war in Iran continues to drive up gas prices according to Costco CEO Ron Vachris
- Lower-income consumers show signs of financial distress while high-income customers maintain spending confidence
Limits of this briefing
All major sources in this search came from NPR syndication across public radio outlets, limiting political perspective diversity. No distinct conservative or progressive framing was found in available coverage of this specific story.
Sources
- NPR: Here's how we're coping with high gas prices, according to Costco and Walmart Centre
- OPB (Oregon Public Broadcasting): Here's how we're coping with high gas prices, according to Costco and Walmart - OPB Centre
- TheStreet: Costco's gas strategy gains as prices rise - TheStreet Centre
- KPBS (San Diego Public Broadcasting): Here's how we're coping with high gas prices, according to Costco and Walmart | KPBS Public Media Centre
- Houston Public Media: Here's how we're coping with high gas prices, according to Costco and Walmart | NPR & Houston Public Media Centre