Gas inflation forces change at AAFES pumps Published Dec. 20, 2007 By Army and Air Force Exchange Service Public Affairs EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Gas is on the rise and has many travelers worried that filling the car up might mean spending a good portion of their income. The Army and Air Force Exchange Service are aware of this growing burden and in tradition of their hallmark to provide customers with quality products for a fair price, they strive to provide competitive fuel prices. With the growing inflation of gas prices affecting the military and civilian population alike, local community motor fuel sell price surveys are conducted to establish a basis from which exchange motor fuels prices are set. Proactive, local surveying helps balance AAFES' dual mission to provide goods and services while generating support for military quality of life initiatives. The resulting motor fuel prices are competitive with the local community. Prices that reflect those found in the community ensure that exchange activities provide an acceptable rate of return for Morale, Welfare and Recreation and a competitive price to the customer while not engaging in predatory pricing tactics. AAFES surveys local fuel prices at Eglin and Hurlburt and as a result, drivers may see different "sell prices" at Eglin and Hurlburt as prices may change frequently during the day. For both bases, five locations have been selected as competition as deemed by the local general manager and therefore surveyed, according to Christi Cook, Eglin and Hurlburt Exchange general manager administrative assistant. From this survey the AAFES price is established. At a minimum, pump prices are equal to the market average for each grade of fuel sold and may be discounted by the general manger. This discretion is based upon market conditions, the cost of product and the financial requirement to sell fuel above settled cost as well as other variables. (Information provided by Army and Air Force Exchange Service Headquarters)