Payment Methods Accepted at ARCO Gas Stations
ARCO gas stations offer several convenient payment options for customers. While they do not accept credit cards at all locations, they do accept debit cards, cash, and their own branded payment cards. Let’s take a closer look at the different payment methods available at ARCO.
One of the most popular ways to pay at ARCO is with a debit card. However, it’s important to note that there is a small processing fee of 35 cents per transaction when using a debit card. This fee helps cover the costs associated with processing the payment.
Debit Cards Accepted with Processing Fee
As mentioned, ARCO does accept debit cards at all of their gas stations. This provides a convenient cashless payment option for customers who prefer not to carry cash or use a credit card. The only downside is the small 35 cent processing fee that is charged per transaction.
This fee is clearly displayed at the pump and is added to the total cost of your purchase. While it may seem like a small amount, it can add up over time if you frequently fill up at ARCO using your debit card. However, for many customers, the convenience of using a debit card outweighs the minor additional cost.
ARCO Branded Payment Cards
In addition to debit cards, ARCO also offers their own branded payment cards. These include the ARCO PumpPASS prepaid cards, ARCO fleet card, and ARCO Business Solutions Mastercard.
The ARCO PumpPASS prepaid card allows you to load funds onto the card in advance, which you can then use to pay for gas at any ARCO station. This is a great option for budgeting your fuel expenses or for giving to family members who may need to borrow a car.
For businesses with vehicle fleets, the ARCO fleet card provides a convenient way to manage and track fuel expenses. It offers detailed reporting and can help simplify accounting and bookkeeping related to fuel costs.
Finally, the ARCO Business Solutions Mastercard is a credit card that is specifically designed for businesses. It offers savings on fuel purchases at ARCO stations and can be used anywhere that Mastercard is accepted.
Cash and Credit Card Payments
Cash is always accepted at ARCO gas stations. For customers who prefer to pay with cash, this is a straightforward option. Simply inform the cashier of the amount you wish to prepay, and then pump your gas as usual.
While ARCO does not accept credit cards at all locations, they have started to accept them at select stations. This is a relatively new development, and the number of ARCO stations that take credit cards is still limited. If you prefer to pay with a credit card, it’s best to check with your local ARCO station to see if they accept them before attempting to use one at the pump.
Does ARCO Accept Mobile Wallets Like Apple Pay?
In recent years, mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay have become increasingly popular payment methods. These digital wallets allow you to store your payment information securely on your smartphone and use it to make contactless payments at supported retailers. But does ARCO accept these mobile wallet payments?
ARCO Currently Does Not Accept Apple Pay
Unfortunately, as of 2021, ARCO does not accept Apple Pay at any of their gas station locations. While many major retailers and gas station chains have started to accept mobile wallet payments, ARCO has yet to adopt this technology.
For customers who prefer the convenience and security of using Apple Pay, this may be disappointing news. However, it’s important to remember that ARCO does offer several other cashless payment options, such as debit cards and their own branded payment cards.
Other Mobile Wallets Not Accepted at ARCO
In addition to not accepting Apple Pay, ARCO also does not currently accept other mobile wallets like Samsung Pay or Google Pay. This means that regardless of which type of smartphone you have or which mobile wallet you use, you will not be able to use it to pay at ARCO gas stations.
Again, while this may be inconvenient for some customers, it’s important to keep in mind the other payment options that ARCO does offer. Until they decide to start accepting mobile wallet payments, customers will need to use one of the other accepted methods, such as cash, debit cards, or ARCO’s own payment cards.
ARCO’s Ownership and Franchise History
ARCO, which stands for Atlantic Richfield Company, has a long and interesting history dating back over a century. In recent years, the company has gone through some ownership changes and franchise restructuring. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key events in ARCO’s more recent history.
Tesoro’s Acquisition of ARCO in 2013
One of the most significant changes to ARCO in recent years was its acquisition by Tesoro Refining & Marketing Company LLC. This acquisition took place on June 1, 2013, and resulted in Tesoro gaining ownership of the ARCO brand and its related assets.
As part of this acquisition, Tesoro gained the rights to use the ARCO brand name and to franchise ARCO gas stations. This means that while Tesoro owns the ARCO brand, individual ARCO stations may be owned and operated by independent franchisees.
Treasure Franchise Company Becomes ampm Subfranchisor
Another important change that occurred as part of Tesoro’s acquisition of ARCO was the restructuring of ARCO’s franchise operations. Specifically, Treasure Franchise Company LLC, a subsidiary of Tesoro, became the subfranchisor for ampm convenience stores in Arizona, Nevada, and California.
This means that Treasure Franchise Company is responsible for managing and supporting ampm franchisees in these specific states. ampm is a popular convenience store chain that is often paired with ARCO gas stations, providing customers with a one-stop-shop for fuel, snacks, and other essentials.
The transition of ampm franchising to Treasure Franchise Company was an important step in streamlining ARCO’s operations and ensuring that franchisees receive the support they need to succeed.
Overall, while ARCO has gone through some ownership and franchise changes in recent years, the brand remains a popular and trusted choice for gas stations and convenience stores across the United States.
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