Petrol Retailers Association responds to December CMA report

Commenting on the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) Road Fuel Monitoring Annual Report 2025, Gordon Balmer Executive Director of the Petrol Retailers Association (PRA) said: “Operating costs alone do not account for higher fuel margins, yet retailers continue to face steep rises in labour, taxation, energy and crime - pressures that make it increasingly tough to operate. Comparisons with historic margins overlook these significant cost increases. Pump prices are considerably lower than the peaks observed in 2022 and 2023, corresponding with falls in wholesale fuel prices, indicating strong competition between retailers. 

“We are disappointed that the CMA has stated it will not include operating costs in its analysis over the next five years. A more balanced and consistent approach is needed to reflect the real challenges facing the sector. 

“We will continue to work constructively with the CMA to bring greater clarity and balance to future reports and will engage with government on the forthcoming Fuel Finder Scheme, due to be implemented early in the new year.”