Gasoline sales drove BJ’s 6.3% comparable club sales growth in Q1 2026, offsetting weaker retail demand amid rising fuel prices.
BJ’s Wholesale reported a 6.3% year-over-year increase in first-quarter comparable club sales for 2026, primarily fueled by higher gasoline sales. Excluding gas, sales rose just 1.5%, reflecting uneven retail demand amid economic pressure.
Gas station visits surged 21.7% year-over-year in early April, per Placer.ai data, as nationwide fuel prices climbed to $4.52 per gallon from $4.03 a month earlier. The company attributed traffic growth to discounted fuel offerings, reinforcing membership value during inflationary periods.
The retailer plans significant in-store changes to adapt to shifting consumer behavior, though details remain undisclosed. Gas prices spiked following geopolitical tensions in late February, further pressuring household budgets.