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Asda has issued a warning that some petrol pumps in its network are experiencing “temporary shortages” due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which is affecting fuel supply across the UK.
Allan Leighton, the executive chairman of Asda, stated that a surge in demand is driving this disruption, as motorists rush to fill up amid a sharp increase in petrol and diesel prices.
According to figures from RAC Fuel Watch, the average price of petrol has risen above 150p per litre, the highest level since mid-May 2024. In just four weeks, prices have climbed by 17.3p, coinciding with heightened tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Diesel prices are seeing even steeper increases, with the average cost now reaching 177.68p per litre, and forecasts indicating a rise to 182p by Easter.
Leighton emphasised that only “the odd pump” has been affected. He reassured that these shortages are usually short-lived, resulting from sudden spikes in demand due to global oil price volatility.
Leighton told PA: “Our fuel volumes are up quite significantly, and clearly demand has been outstripping supply.
Supply is tight, and we are all trying hard on that. The issue is a temporary one, and some could see issues when we are waiting for delivery, and we can expect to see that continue.
Despite the rising costs, Asda’s average petrol price remains slightly below the national average at 145.4p per litre, although it is currently the highest among the UK’s “Big Four” supermarkets. The average diesel price at Asda is 170.3p per litre, still below the UK average.
The company has also responded to accusations of profiteering amid increased scrutiny by government officials. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves have indicated that they are prepared to take action if retailers are found to be unfairly inflating prices.
The Asda boss said: “Our (profit) margin will be down as a result. It is very clear this is not the case.
People ask where the money is going, and the Government are getting a lot of money off the back of this.
Experts continue to recommend that motorists shop around using price comparison tools to avoid overpaying at the pump.
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