FIXED COST INCREASES FEED INTO MARGINS, SAYS PRA.  

“While the situation in the Middle East could raise pump prices, petrol retailers are doing all they can to keep prices as low as possible for their customers. It is disappointing that while we are working with the relevant Government departments to lower the costs for motorists, we must constantly correct the narrative offered by some commentators in the media.” said Gordon Balmer, Executive Director of the Petrol Retailers Association (PRA).

“Petrol retailers operate on razor thin margins in a highly competitive market. They have had to contend with a substantial increase in their operating costs in the form of energy, business rates, National Minimum Wage, and record levels of retail crime. As most will understand, when costs increase, and sales reduce, margins must also increase to ensure that the business remains viable. If petrol stations started going out of business, the country’s energy security would be compromised, motorists would have to drive further to fill up on fuel and a substantial number of jobs would be lost.

“We have been working closely with the Government as they develop their fuel price transparency checker, which will allow motorists to find the cheapest fuel available to them in their area. Until this is rolled out, I would advise motorists to use petrolprices.com to find the best deals in their area.”