Some gas station owners say they too are being gouged at the gas pump.

While a gallon of gas continues to rise toward $4 a gallon, LukOil owners say it is becoming more difficult for them to remain competitive in the market.

That’s because they claim their suppliers charge them 5 to 20 cents more per gallon of gas, forcing them to pass the higher prices along to their customers.

Starting today – LukOil station owners in New Jersey and around the country – are staging a protest.

They want to draw attention to the high prices they’re being forced to pay. But you may not believe their strategy.

For the next 24 hours, some LukOil gas stations will raise their prices to $8 a gallon, according to the New Jersey Gasoline, C-Store, Automotive Association (NJGCA).

The station owners are planning to protest what NJ.com reports is the company’s "unjustified" pricing policies, according to NJGCA executive director Sal Risalvato.

LukOil’s pricing policies have caused some dealers to lose more than 50 percent of their volume, while others have “turned in their keys," Risalvato said.

Tei LukOil at 2195 Rt. 4 East is expected to take part in the protest, according to NJCGA.

Franchise owners at gas stations in New Jersey and Pennsylvania are planning to hang huge banners explaining the pricing situation to customers. The banners will also urge customers to call LukOil's offices as a way of pressuring the company to change its policies.