Experts have told motorists to fill up their cars at major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda and Morrisons as petrol and diesel fuel costs continue to soar. William Fletcher, CEO of Car.co.uk warned that supermarket forecourts consistently come out at the cheapest rates.
He warned that major chains like Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda, and Morrisons often undercut independent stations and major brands by several pence per litre. Experts stressed supermarkets use fuel as a loss leader to attract customers who'll then spend money in store after.
The advice comes as UK petrol prices continue to increase with unleaded petrol prices at 137.51p with diesel now at 150.97p per litre. Data from RAC Fuel Watch has revealed petrol was now up 4.68p since the start of the conflict in Iran, with diesel prices 8.59p higher.
Wiliam explained: “Supermarket fuel is the same quality as what you'd get elsewhere. All UK fuel must meet the same British Standards, so you're not compromising on quality by choosing the cheaper option. You're simply being smart about where you shop.”
Car.co.uk experts urged road users to bookmark their local supermarket stations in your comparison apps and check them ahead of a refuel. Meanwhile, experts stressed that many supermarkets also run loyalty schemes that offer additional discounts on fuel when you spend a certain amount in-store.
William added: “The key is to make these habits part of your routine. Once you get into the practice of checking apps and planning your refuelling stops, it becomes second nature.
“You're not going out of your way or spending extra time. You're just being a bit more strategic about where and when you buy fuel. That's the difference between overpaying and getting the best deal available.”
The RAC has previously urged road users to top up at supermarket fuel stations, stressing they tend to be between 3 and 4p cheaper when compared to the UK average.
The RAC’s Simon Williams previously said: “As they sell so much fuel they are also better placed to take advantage of wholesale price dips than other retailers who don’t buy new supply as often.”
Petrol price hikes may not stop there, with continued disruption likely to send the cost of petrol and diesel fuel spiralling. Last week, the RAC warned that petrol could hit 150p per litre if Brent crude oil exceeds $100.
