Map shows where gas is currently cheapest (green), priciest (red). (Image: Gas Buddy)
This time last year we were paying less than $1.80 per gallon on average for gasoline. Now we are paying about $2.30.
Ouch! Have you noticed the 50 cent increase? The price of fuel not only affects travelers at the pump– it puts pressure on airlines to raise fares as the peak summer season approaches. It also makes ride-sharing drivers earn less.
The average price per gallon now $2.30, up from $1.80 last year. (Gas Buddy)
With travelers looking for relief, InterContinental Hotels Group’s customer loyalty program has started offering its members a new benefit: savings at the pump. It’s a program aimed squarely at biz travelers who drive more than they fly – which is the great majority of them.
The company said its new Fuel Rewards program link provides discounts on gas purchases at Shell stations nationwide, with the amount varying by elite status.
The savings include a 5 cents-a-gallon discount for Club and Gold Elite members of IHG Rewards Club (10 nights or 10,000 points a year); 6 cents for Platinum Elites (40 nights/40,000 points); and 7 cents for Spite Elites (75 nights/75,000 points).
How to get your discount at Shell
It’s a nice innovation for a hotel loyalty program as the price of gas keep creeping up, but 5 to 7 cents a gallon? That’s a savings of a buck or less for a fill-up. We’ve seen supermarket discount cards that offer savings of up to 30 cents a gallon.
But individuals could accumulate greater savings. IHG said the Fuel Rewards program is operated by a company called Excentus, which has similar arrangements with other national brands and retailers, and the benefits can be combined. “As members of the Fuel Rewards program, IHG Rewards Club members can stack additional fuel savings from purchases made at a variety of participating retailers, restaurants and merchants,” the company noted.
Members who want the perk must link their IHG Rewards Club account with Fuel Rewards. Here’s a link to Fuel Rewards, with details and more information.
IHG is not alone in offering fuel savings. Best Western Rewards members can redeem 13,000 points for at $50 Shell gift card that can be used at the pump or store.
How much is gasoline per gallon in your home town? Have you noticed how much it’s increased in recent months?
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