CINCINNATI -- Jay Khansa said the continuing rise in gas prices just might put him out of business.

Considering the fact that he sells gas at his Springfield Township, Ohio station every day, that may come as a surprise.

Part of the problem is that he's an independent owner. Khansa said larger, corporate-owned stations often sell gas at a loss and make up the profits in snacks and soda.

"It takes, like, $35,000 nowadays just to buy one load of gas, and you're lucky if you make $200 profit. So it's hurting us just as much as it's hurting the public," he said.

Khansa said he has to work harder than many just to keep things going.

"I'm having to work seven days a week, open to close. Can't afford to hire any help, can't afford to take a day off. Just doing the best I can to keep the doors open for the customers," he said.

He said he's trying to sell the station, but it's an uphill battle.

"Once they come in and see how little business we're doing and how low the profits are, most of them just walk away," Khansa said.

Customers said they don't like losing options for their gas purchases.

"Big companies can't own everything. You've got individuals trying to make a living. It's just wrong that everybody is getting pushed out of business." Phil Armstrong said.

"It's a struggle. After a while you get tired of all this hard work, with no payoff," Khansa said. "The little guy has no chance at all."