FUEL PRICING: PRA COMMENTS    

“Current analyses that compare today’s fuel margins to historical figures overlook several critical factors. We must consider the significant increases in operating costs, reduced fuel volumes post-pandemic, and the substantial investments required to transition to a low-carbon transportation system. These factors mean that fuel retailers need to earn more from fuel sales to stay in business and invest in the future." said Gordon Balmer, Executive Director of the Petrol Retailers Association (PRA), commenting on the latest RAC press release on fuel pricing.

"With regards to diesel, it is important to recognise that the UK currently has the highest fuel duty in Europe, and Labour party recently failed to provide clarity on whether they would maintain the existing 5 pence per litre fuel duty rebate. The Labour Party has also highlighted the need for increased investment in EV charging points. Forecourts are ideally suited for 'en route' EV charging, and many of PRA members are investing in this infrastructure despite the slower-than-anticipated uptake of electric vehicles and the long payback periods for such investments. If any new government wants to facilitate the transition to a low-carbon transportation system, having forecourts with sufficient EV charging capabilities is crucial.”

Balmer concluded: "The PRA has maintained transparency in its dealings with the government on fuel pricing and will be meeting with officials from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to discuss this further. For motorists looking to find the lowest fuel prices in their area, we recommend using petrolprices.com."