UK drivers are being urged to make supermarket forecourts their go-to destination for fuel, as experts confirm it offers the best value without compromising on quality.
Why Supermarkets Offer the Best Prices
Matthew Briggs, CEO of Right Fuel Card, has stated it is "completely true" that supermarkets like Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury's, and Morrisons consistently offer more affordable petrol and diesel. The intense competition between these retail giants to attract customers directly benefits motorists, as they actively work to undercut each other's prices at the pump.
This competitive pricing strategy means that for drivers questioning where to find the cheapest fuel, the answer is most often their local supermarket. The advice is particularly relevant for those planning long journeys, where filling up at a supermarket beforehand can lead to significant savings.
Quality Concerns Addressed
Many motorists have wondered if the lower price at supermarkets indicates a poorer standard of fuel. However, experts have moved to dispel this myth, assuring drivers that they need not worry about the quality.
The higher price point of premium fuels from branded alternatives is due to the inclusion of additional detergents and other chemicals, not a fundamental difference in the base fuel quality offered by supermarkets. For the standard petrol and diesel that most drivers use, supermarket fuel is a perfectly sound and economical choice.
The Motorway Pitfall to Avoid
The most critical piece of advice from motoring specialists is to avoid filling up at motorway service stations whenever possible. These stations are known for their excessively high prices, capitalising on the fact that drivers on long journeys with low fuel have little choice but to pay.
While fuel prices can vary nationwide depending on location, the premium charged at motorway services is consistently and notably high. Planning ahead and using a supermarket forecourt can prevent drivers from what experts describe as being "ripped off" during essential travel.
