One of the most notable changes is the formal launch of the Fuel Finder scheme, a government-backed initiative designed to improve transparency at the pumps.
From 2 February 2026, most UK fuel retailers are legally required to report any change in petrol or diesel prices to a central database within 30 minutes. The policy, introduced by the Treasury, aims to address so-called “rocket and feather” pricing, where pump prices rise quickly but fall slowly when wholesale costs drop.
Early trials and government modelling suggest the scheme could save drivers between 1p and 6p per litre, depending on location and competition between retailers.
Who must comply?
The rules apply to almost all retail fuel sellers, including:
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Supermarket and major brand forecourts
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Independent garages
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Unmanned pay-at-the-pump stations
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Businesses where fuel sales are not the primary activity
Exemptions are limited and include red diesel sold for agricultural use and fuel sold in containers, such as jerrycans.
About Freeman & Co.
Freeman & Co. are a specialist firm of road traffic and criminal defence solicitors based in Manchester but with nationwide coverage.
Freeman & Co. specialise in a wide variety of road traffic cases, ranging from drink driving, speeding and mobile phone offences, to name but a few.
The firm was created by Nick Freeman, who has been dubbed “Mr Loophole” by the press for his technical legal ability and robustly challenging the prosecution.
Nick is well regarded as an expert road traffic lawyer and has successfully represented many high profile clients for a variety of motoring offences as well as criminal offences.
The firm of Freeman & Co. embodies the way Nick works, with minute attention to detail and challenging the prosecution at every turn.
If you are facing a road traffic matter or criminal offence and need the services of Freeman & Co. please call on 0161 236 7007.
Freeman & Co. are available for Police Station attendances and an experienced criminal lawyer is on hand to take your call.
If you would prefer to send a confidential email the please click here.
Our Details
Freeman & Co Solicitors
8 Oxford Court
Manchester
M2 3WQ
Tel. 0161 236 7007
