It's interesting that the labor cost doesn't seem to make _that_ big of a difference, compared to other variables like taxes. New Jersey has one of the cheapest gas prices in the nation but is one of the few states that forbids motorists to pump their own gas. I don't think it's due to logistics either, since neighboring PA and NY have much higher prices. I'm guessing it's just the taxes? What else could it be?

We're at 4 double sided pumps, a roof, a sign and some CCTV. No people, no shop, no money.

Why would they do that? There's no money in selling gas. Gas stations make all their money now selling food in the convenience store. The gas pumps are just a way to get you into the store. And they're moving upmarket, making custom sandwiches and hot meals, selling fresh fruit bowls, etc.

I've seen those in the US but they're very uncommon. I assume the store pays for itself and it's considered a positive feature of the gas station by many motorists.