Hi guys,
New to the forum but long time commodore fanatic ( have owned 12).
I run an independent service station north of the central coast in country NSW. Let me tell you all now that the only people making the money from fuel are the big companies. I only make 4 cents per litre on average and after staffing, maintenance and running costs are taken out I'm lucky to pull in 2 cents a litre.
As said previously there are only a couple of major fuel suppliers. Without a competitive market these companies have free rein to charge what they like and they do. What am I supposed to do when the Caltex down the road sells his fuel for $110.9 yet I can only buy it direct from Caltex refinery for $111.9- sell for loss, I think not. People come in screaming and yelling about fuel but at the end of the day they won't leave their car at home and walk.
One reason why fuel retailers don't drop bowser price straight away is because the've purchased say, 35,000ltrs (minimum caltex order to be paid pre-purchase) at a fixed price and can't afford to drop prices when the barrel price drops. Independents can't afford to run at a loss which is why in about ten years you'll only be able to buy fuel from a Major retailer.
The disgraceful events of the past weeks with regards to the ACCC petrol price enquiry, and the subsequent drop of ten cents a litre only highlights the greed and contempt of the fuel companies. Not only have they ripped off the consumer but the independent retailers as well.
Not Happy
Andrew
