ASDA slashes 2p off litre of petrol

ASDA today (Friday 11th September 2009) announced it was cutting the price of petrol by 2p per litre and diesel by a penny. As a result, the maximum price drivers will pay at any of its 179 forecourts is 102.9 for unleaded and 103.9 for diesel.

The supermarket confirmed it was passing on the benefits of falling cost prices and the weakening US dollar, and immediately challenged other retailers to follow its lead, many of whom are continuing to charge more than 107p for a litre of fuel.

David Miles, ASDA's Commercial Director said: "Once again we have led the way by passing on the benefits of lower costs to our customers as quickly as possible. While others try to bamboozle drivers with money off vouchers and plastic points, we prefer to lower our prices.

"Companies that are charging more than 107p for a litre of fuel are inflating their profits at the motorist's expense. Unfortunately, they are often able to get away with it because there isn't an ASDA nearby driving down prices."

Last month ASDA launched an interactive Google map on its website (your.asda.com/petrol) enabling drivers to locate their nearest ASDA forecourt to help save them money.

Despite reports earlier this week of rising oil prices, ASDA's latest cuts reflect the cost of petrol and diesel already in its supply chain.

David Miles added: "Had Alistair Darling not increased Fuel Duty in September we could be looking at bringing prices back below the £1 mark. Nevertheless, our latest price cut is a welcome move in the right direction, and will help drivers make ends meet."