A full tank of petrol at Gloucester Services costs almost £20 more than filling up at the nearby Asda supermarket, research reveals. Analysis by British Fuel Prices shows that unleaded fuel at the motorway services sells for 197.9p per litre, while only two miles away at Asda Quedgeley Supermarket, the price stands at 164.7p per litre, a difference of 34p per litre or £18.70 per full tank.
Motorway fuel prices across the UK are generally higher, with drivers paying up to 34p more per litre for unleaded petrol compared to ordinary forecourts. Typically, motorists could save around 26.1p per litre, translating to £11.55 per tank, by refuelling at standard petrol stations a short distance away. The conflict in the Middle East has contributed to rising fuel costs, with diesel reaching an all-time high of 199.33p per litre this week.
Research indicates that at 108 of the 121 motorway service areas throughout the UK, a conventional forecourt is within three miles, often closer to two miles away. On average, petrol costs 193.4p per litre at motorway services compared to 173.9p at other petrol stations, while diesel averages 214.5p at motorway stops against 199.2p elsewhere.
On September 30, queues formed at Asda Quedgeley as drivers took advantage of the cheaper prices. Ian and Jean Jameson, visiting from Newcastle upon Tyne, expressed their reluctance to refuel at motorway services due to the price disparity. Ian, an 80-year-old retired teacher, commented, “I do question how they justify these prices and how these companies get away with it. I tend to think motorway services are ripping people off.”
Jean, 78, added that they now rely more on local buses and make only one shopping trip a week by car to avoid carrying heavy loads.
From the Asda forecourt, lorry driver Rich Blythe reflected on past fuel protests, suggesting rising prices could prompt similar actions. He noted that “fuel prices at pumps are getting ridiculous” and pointed out that major petrol brands often set higher rates, influencing others to follow.
Sam Allcock, editor of British Fuel Prices, emphasised that while most drivers know motorway fuel is expensive, many are unaware that affordable alternatives are close by. He advises, “If you have enough fuel to get off at the next junction, it is worth doing.”