The Competition and Market Authority (CMA) has launched an inquiry into Euro Car Parks, a major private parking company managing over 3,000 locations across the UK and Ireland, after it charged drivers while queuing for petrol.
Investigation Focus
The investigation will examine the company's practices at petrol stations, considering whether it is fair to issue parking tickets to drivers queuing to use fuel pumps or other forecourt services, such as car washes. The CMA's probe is in the evidence gathering stage and is set to run until Spring 2027.
Consumer Protection Concerns
Emma Cochrane, executive director of consumer protection at the CMA, stated that parking companies “must treat motorists fairly at all stages”, and a clear and consistent appeals process “must be at the heart of this”. She added: “It’s time for all private parking operators to comply with consumer law or risk action from the CMA.”
Reactions from Motoring Groups
RAC head of policy Simon Williams described the measures as “a major step forwards in ensuring drivers are treated fairly by private parking operators”. He added: “Drivers aren’t consistently getting fair outcomes when they challenge tickets.”
Jack Cousens, head of roads policy at The AA, said forecourts and parking operators need to allow motorists to get the fuel they need without being penalised “for simply waiting their turn”. He noted: “Drivers are already feeling the pinch with rising pump prices, so the last thing they'd want or expect is to be hit for a parking charge just for sitting in the queue.”
Consumer Advocacy
Which? consumer law expert Lisa Webb said it was positive to see the CMA launch its investigation. “We often hear from people who feel frustrated and confused as they fight unfair charges and tickets issued by private parking operators, including for absurd reasons like queuing for a petrol pump or car wash,” she said.
