The Consumer Rights Protection Centre (CRPC), having assessed the loyalty programmes and discount offers of fuel retailers, has concluded that it is not always easy for consumers to understand which offer is the most beneficial. The conditions for applying discounts vary significantly across different fuel station networks. Therefore, it is important to consider not only the discount expressed in cents per litre, but also the final price and the applicable terms and conditions.
The largest fuel discounts are usually available on weekends or during promotional campaigns, while more consistent everyday savings are typically offered through programmes providing a fixed discount in cents per litre. In several loyalty programmes, the benefit depends on consumer activity, the volume of fuel purchased, or the frequency of visits.
Mobile applications are playing an increasingly important role in obtaining discounts, as discounts may need to be activated through the app or may be available as personalised offers. At the same time, the CRPC has found that, in some cases, the principles governing discount application are complex. For example, discounts may not be cumulative, may only be available during specific periods, or may be used only once.
The CRPC also found that several fuel retailers do not provide sufficiently clear information about the discounts available under their loyalty programmes, either at fuel stations, on their websites, or in their mobile applications. The CRPC continues individual engagement with one fuel retailer regarding the need to provide consumers with clearer information.
CRPC Advice for Consumers
- Compare the final price per litre, not just the size of the discount.
- Check when and how the discount is applied – immediately at the point of purchase, via the mobile app, with a customer or partner card, or later as accumulated savings or a bonus. Make sure that no additional steps are required to activate the discount.
- Read the key terms and conditions, including the validity period, minimum purchase volume, eligible fuel types, applicable fuel station network, and payment method.
- Find out whether discounts can be combined with other promotions, coupons, or loyalty programme discounts.
- Consider your purchasing habits – volume-based or visit-based programmes may be more suitable for regular customers of a particular network, whereas short-term promotions may be more advantageous for occasional purchases.
- Be cautious if the discount conditions are unclear, if no validity period is specified, if the final discounted price is not clear, or if the savings shown on the receipt differ from those promised in the advertisement.
If you have any doubts about how a discount has been applied, the CRPC encourages you to contact the fuel retailer and request clarification.