Asda has increased diesel prices at the fastest rate among the major UK supermarket chains amid a growing diesel supply crisis, according to a recent analysis of forecourt prices. Since February 27, the day before conflict escalated in Iran, Asda has raised diesel prices by 59.3 pence per litre. This rate of increase surpasses those of Morrisons, which raised prices by 59 pence per litre, and Sainsbury’s, which increased prices by 57.8 pence per litre over the same period.
As of yesterday morning, the average diesel price at Asda stood at 196.9 pence per litre, slightly below the national average of 199.53 pence per litre. Despite this, Asda’s rapid price hikes have prompted concerns about potential price gouging amid rising fuel costs. Overall, diesel prices have climbed about 4 pence per litre since February, a surge partly attributed to ongoing tensions in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which have raised fears over supply disruptions.
The escalating prices mean that refueling a typical family car now costs nearly £110, an increase of approximately £31 since the Iran conflict began. The Royal Automobile Club (RAC) has warned that diesel prices could surpass £2 per litre shortly, adding more pressure on consumers. U.S. President Donald Trump has also threatened to impose a ban on diesel exports to reduce domestic fuel prices, which could influence global supply chains and further impact prices internationally. Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, has pledged to lobby Trump against any such export bans, citing concerns for British drivers.
Fuel price increases come at a sensitive time for British motorists, who are also bracing for possible rises in fuel duty scheduled for January and March next year. The planned duty increases, totaling 5 pence per litre, would be the first in over 15 years and, combined with VAT, could push pump prices up by an additional 6 pence per litre. Speculation has grown about whether the UK government might reconsider these planned increases in the upcoming Budget on October 28 due to public concern over rising costs.
Since February, international oil prices have surged more than 40 percent, with Brent crude—the global benchmark influencing diesel prices—rising from $72.87 to $103.50 per barrel. Among supermarket chains, Morrisons currently charges the highest average diesel price at 198.2 pence per litre, while Tesco offers the lowest at 196.6 pence per litre.
In response to the price increases, an Asda spokesperson noted that the company has provided the lowest diesel prices more weeks than any competitor since the Middle East conflict started, and that its current diesel price remains 2.2 pence per litre below the UK average. Morrisons and Sainsbury’s were contacted for comment but did not provide statements.