As the end-of-year festivities approach, E. Leclerc pulls off a masterstroke by relaunching its “fuel at cost price” operation. On 19th and 20th December, over 700 service stations will allow motorists to fill up without breaking the bank. A welcome initiative before the price hike scheduled for January, which is set to put a brake on our already tight budgets.
A well-targeted operation
French drivers can rejoice: this weekend, E. Leclerc is resetting the clocks with an operation that concerns 711 service stations across the country. Yes, you heard that right, no less than 711 points of sale where petrol, diesel, and Superethanol E85 will be offered at cost price. But beware, motorway stations are not included. In short, it’s a golden opportunity for those planning to hit the road to join their family or friends during this festive period.
Operation fuel at cost price this Friday and Saturday in France, in more than 700 stations of distributor E. Leclerc © Yayimages
A response to consumer needs
In the face of competition, E. Leclerc seems to have understood that the moment is crucial. Like a boxer who attacks just before the bell, the brand aims to attract motorists with this operation. Indeed, in an uncertain economic context where prices are soaring, offering fuel at cost price is not just a simple marketing campaign: it’s a real boost for households preparing to go on holiday. With this initiative, E. Leclerc hopes not only to attract new customers but also to retain its current clientele.
Savings on every fill-up
In terms of savings, it is estimated that motorists could save a few euros per fill-up. This may seem trivial, but during the festive season where every penny counts, it could make the difference between a smooth journey and a stressful road trip due to budget constraints. For the vast majority of French drivers, this operation is a windfall to seize before prices start to rise again.
This last operation of the year 2025 will allow for some euros of savings on a full tank © DR
Perfect timing before the announced price increase
The choice of dates is not trivial. E. Leclerc knows full well that many French people will be hitting the road this Friday to celebrate Christmas. This coincides with a price increase scheduled for 1st January, with about five cents more per litre expected at the pump. This increase is linked to the tightening of Energy Savings Certificates (CEE). Basically, it’s like being told: “Make the most of it while it lasts!” The opportunity is therefore perfect to fill up before the meter displays even more staggering figures.
The words of Michel-Édouard Leclerc
Michel-Édouard Leclerc, President of the Strategic Committee of E.Leclerc Centres, also spoke about this initiative. He emphasizes the importance of supporting families during this delicate period: “Christmas remains an emotionally significant time, but it also represents a real budgetary challenge for many households. When 40% of French people who do not celebrate it mention a tight budget, our responsibility is clear: to concretely help the French preserve their purchasing power.” That’s a statement that could almost rival that of a dramatic film hero!
A final push for 2025
To conclude this series of fuel at cost price operations, E. Leclerc thus wraps up the year 2025 on a positive note. This will be the seventh time the brand has implemented this type of operation during the year. After several months marked by relentless increases in fuel prices, such an initiative is not only welcome but necessary. As we enter a new year, the hope is that other brands will follow suit and offer similar measures to lighten the financial burden on consumers.
