Over 30 Years of Black Ownership
The BP gas station and convenience store located at 807 W. Atkinson Ave. remains the only Black and Brown-owned gas station in Milwaukee. Originally owned by Diane Stowers for 31 years, the establishment has changed hands multiple times but has remained Black-owned, fulfilling Stowers’ vision.
On November 1, 2024, wife and husband Sonia and Marvin Nash became the gas station’s new owners. With this change in ownership, the gas station is now Black and Brown-owned. The Nashes are currently leasing the building but own the business.
Sonia said they were approached three times before agreeing to take on ownership. As first-time entrepreneurs, they are honored to be a part of the historic gas station’s legacy.
Since taking ownership, the Nashes have prioritized cleanliness. Sonia noted that visitors often remark they’ve never seen such a clean gas station, including the bathroom.
“It’s important that we’re successful in this business…we want to succeed like any entrepreneur,” said Sonia.
Sonia describes their gas station as “a friendly, welcoming atmosphere for everyone that comes into the gas station.”
The owners are focused on stocking the gas station with items that meet community needs and sell well.
Sonia envisions the gas station as a community hub. The Nash’s plan to host events like a coat and backpack drive and a free gas giveaway in the spring.
“We can do stuff that involves the community,” she said.
In Need of Support
With multiple owners and years of changes, community support for the gas station in Milwaukee has declined. The BP gas station is in a historically Black neighborhood, across from another station. Sonia and her husband are working hard to rebuild community trust, addressing doubts about its Black and Brown ownership.
“That’s why we’re pleading to our community and people to support us,” said Sonia.
On January 17, 2025, the owner’s daughter made a Facebook status pleading with the community to support her parents’ business. With over 2,000 shares, many community members are committed to supporting the gas station and its new owners.
“We want people to give us a chance…come and patronize us,” said Sonia.
According to a 2022 Urban Milwaukee article, there were only 29 Black-owned gas stations in the United States. To increase those numbers, the community has to intentionally support businesses like the Nashes.
