54 days and counting…
That’s how long it’s been since the oil began leaking into the Golf of Mexico from BP pipes. In response to the damage the disaster has caused on the environment and coastal communities, a boycott officially started today. Created through a Facebook group, “Worldwide BP Protest Day” claims over 350,000 supporters online and in the streets.
Since the oil leak, BP stock has gone down 40 percent and they’ve lost millions of dollars in an effort to stop the spill. With increased pressure from the government, many are hoping this whole mess will end soon. Some of the biggest hopefuls are the independent gas retailers that have lost financial support from patrons.
CNN Reports:
BP protesters say they understand that they might be hurting independently owned gas stations, but they say it’s a signal that operators should disassociate themselves with the gas giant or get out of the gas retailing industry altogether.
Michael Monahan, who was protesting at the BP gas station in Atlanta, said: “I feel kind of sorry for them; they’re stuck in the middle. But there’s not a headquarters for me to stand under today; there’s just that sign.”
Gas stations cannot simply drop the BP logo, though. Most franchise owners have contractual obligations to fulfill. Scaramella has a 20-year agreement with BP to carry its brand name and its gas.
“I understand people are angry and upset, and they have a right to be. But they’re taking their anger at the wrong people,” Scaramella said.
