Rep. Aguilar Visits Redlands Convenience Store Impacted by Rising Gas Prices

June 01, 2026 Press Releases Rep. Aguilar Visits Redlands Convenience Store Impacted by Rising Gas Prices The Rocket convenience store in Redlands serves hundreds of customers a day, driving the local economy and providing jobs to people in the Inland Empire REDLANDS, CA – Rep. Pete Aguilar (CA-33) visited the Rocket store on Lugonia Avenue to learn about the ins and outs of running a convenience store and how rising costs are impacting business. Rising gas prices are putting added financial pressure on drivers and shoppers and hurting convenience stores like Rocket, where food purchases make up a large portion of their profits. The visit is part of the National Association of Convenience Stores’ (NACS) In Store program, which gives members of Congress a firsthand look at how convenience stores operate and benefit local communities. You can find photos from the visit above and here . “It was great to stop by the Rocket convenience store and see firsthand the different ways this store benefits Redlands residents and our entire community,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar . “Whether you’re grabbing a quick snack, getting a car wash, filling up your gas tank, or using the ATM, convenience stores are an important part of daily life for people in the Inland Empire and help boost our local economy. Yet as gas prices soar thanks to Trump’s war with Iran, people have less money to spend on food and drinks, hurting convenience stores and their customers. I’ll keep fighting back to end this reckless overseas conflict and bring down costs so families and businesses like Rocket can thrive.” “Convenience stores are essential to everyday life and local economies, and challenges around affordability continue to place increasing strain on our customers, operations, and the communities that depend on us,” said Joe Juliano, President & CEO, United Pacific . “We hope the visit provided Congressman Aguilar with a deeper understanding of convenience store operations and the challenges we face, and that it will help drive stronger support for our industry in Washington, DC.” “Thank you Congressman Aguilar for visiting with the employees and customers at United Pacific’s Rocket convenience store in Redlands,” said Doug Kantor,  General Counsel and Vice President of Government Relations, National Association of Convenience Stores . “Convenience stores form the backbone of local communities around the nation – giving Americans a place to meet and fuel themselves and their vehicles every day. Congressman Aguilar’s care for the people and businesses in his district was apparent in his visit today and we appreciate his dedication to take the time out of his schedule to be here.” Back To News