Being a driver in the UK can sometimes feel like navigating through expensive and unpredictable fuel prices. The constant fluctuations, driven by the global oil market, local demand, and competition, can be frustrating. However, here’s a little secret – supermarkets can be your fuel-saving heroes.
Supermarkets, a primary source of fuel in the UK, often offer more affordable and stable prices compared to other petrol stations. What’s even better is that they sweeten the deal with loyalty schemes, discounts, and vouchers, letting you pocket extra savings on every fill-up.
Yet, not all supermarkets are created equal in the realm of fuel prices. Some stand out as more budget-friendly and reliable, while variations in prices based on location and time add an interesting twist to the mix. So, next time you pull up to refuel, consider your nearby supermarket.
The best and the worst supermarkets for fuel prices in the UK
According to a recent AA study in November 2021, the average fuel prices at UK supermarkets were 136.7p per litre for petrol and 141.9p per litre for diesel. Asda emerged as the cheapest, offering petrol at 134.7p per litre and diesel at 139.7p. On the flip side, Morrisons was the most expensive with prices at 138.5p for petrol and 143.7p for diesel.
This 3.8p per litre difference for petrol and 4p for diesel can accumulate, resulting in a meaningful gap over time. For instance, filling a 50-litre tank at Asda costs £67.35, while at Morrisons, it’s £69.25—a £1.90 per tank difference, equating to £98.80 annually, assuming a weekly fill-up.
Despite a 7.5p drop in average petrol prices to 146.95p, the RAC notes that drivers still pay 10p more than necessary due to retailers not passing on the 5p fuel duty cut since March 2022. Retailer margins per litre were 17p for petrol and 7p for diesel in November. Presently, the average UK petrol price is 145.08p, with supermarkets slightly lower at 141.50p. Diesel averages 152.55p nationwide, with supermarkets at 149.79p.
Supermarket average petrol and diesel prices
- Asda: 139.15p (petrol) 151.30p (diesel)
- BP: 146.54p (petrol) 155.06p (diesel)
- Co-op: 144.44p (petrol) 154.40p (diesel)
- Costco: 131.88p (petrol) 142.32p (diesel)
- Esso: 144.54p (petrol) 153.16p (diesel)
- Jet: 142.07p (petrol) 150.91p (diesel)
- Morrisons: 140.46p (petrol) 148.79p (diesel)
- Sainsbury’s: 141.17p (petrol) 149.41p (diesel)
- Shell: 144.73p (petrol) 153.47p (diesel)
- Tesco: 140.44p (petrol) 148.20p (diesel)
- Texaco: 142.01p (petrol) 150.58p (diesel)
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FAQs
Why are fuel prices typically cheaper at supermarkets than other fuel stations?
Supermarkets can leverage their large buying power to get better wholesale deals and pass some of the savings on to customers to entice them to shop at their stores. The fuel is often used as a loss leader.
Which supermarket usually has the cheapest petrol and diesel prices?
Prices fluctuate frequently, but ASDA, Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons often have some of the cheaper fuel prices. Checking petrol price comparison websites can show who currently has the best deals.
How much of a price difference is there between supermarkets and roadside fuel stations?
Savings can range from 10p per litre, or up to £5 per tank, depending on current pricing. Throughout a full tank fill up, this can result in noticeable savings.