Drivers in London and South East still ‘insecure’ about their ability to buy fuel

Drivers in London and the South East are still feeling ‘insecure’ about their ability to purchase fuel says petrol forecourt representative.

According to mid-week reports, roughly 13% of petrol stations in the region were still without fuel due to the ongoing fuel crisis now into its sixteenth day.

The Petrol Retailers Association (PRA) raised further concerns over the lack of visibility independent fuel forecourts current experience whilst waiting for their next delivery of fuel. There were also added worries over significant quantities of fresh-stock being thrown away due to lack of footfall.

Gordon Balmer, PRA Executive Director, said on Wednesday: “The PRA poll today shows that 13% of independent retailers in London and the South East are dry. This is leaving some motorists continuing to feel insecure about fuel availability at their local neighbourhood filling stations. Independent forecourts report a complete lack of visibility as to when their next delivery might arrive, and some have been dry for four days and still waiting for a delivery.

“We have yet to see any explanation from the Government of the benefits arising from the suspension of competition law between the major oil companies in the delivery of downstream fuel. We need to restore a competitive market with incentives for those who deliver on the job.

“Most independent retailers have built a reputation with their local customers for reliable service, good facilities and a well-stocked convenience store. Sadly retailers have been throwing away large quantities of fresh produce as the “Closed” sign has deterred not just forecourt business but shop sales too, with some quoting reductions in non-fuel sales of between 20 and 50%.

“Attempts by the Government to deal with this fuels crisis, now into its 14th day, have thus far had only limited success in London and the South East. Much more attention on this issue affecting this region is urgently needed.”

TaxiPoint is a free and vital news source for the UK taxi industry. Help us deliver more gold standard journalism the taxi trade needs by supporting us with a small monthly donation. Become a supporter for as little as £2 a month. More details here.