E15 sales in Iowa are proving to be strong right out of the pump. This may be a poor metaphor, but the good news is that Linn Co-op Oil Company, the first retailer to officially sell E15 in Iowa, has seen sales soar to more than 30 percent of the day’s sales after an open house event on Friday, September 21, 2012. The ethanol fuel blend is the most tested fuel blend in the history of the U.S. and is approved for drivers of owning a 2001 or new vehicle, SUV or light-duty truck.

“Friday’s open house event at Linn Co-op proved to be a great success,” said Lucy Norton, Iowa Renewable Fuels Association Managing Director. “Attendees showed a deep interest in E15, specifically asking for the fuel and provided a large uptick in E15 sales. Iowa motorists are excited to have another high-octane, low-cost ethanol option that supports local jobs and contributes to the state’s economy.”

As part of the introduction of E15, Linn Co-op held an open house on Friday, September 21, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with lunch served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. E15 customers received a 15 cent discount on each gallon of E15 purchased.

To introduce E15 to Marion residents, the IRFA, Iowa Corn and the Iowa Power Fund Community Grant Program are sponsoring a media campaign that includes radio and print ads, billboards and direct mail. The campaign will run throughout September. A similar campaign is available to any Iowa retailer who offers E15 for 2001 and newer vehicle owners, says Norton. Retailers preparing to offer E15 in the future are urged to contact the IRFA for promotional assistance.

“E15 is bringing in many new customers to Linn Co-op,” added Jim Becthold, Service Manager for Linn Co-op Oil Company. “During our open house event, I saw countless new faces from all over the county. Also, a great deal of our customers specifically asked for E15 and Friday’s sales reflected that.”