At EdgeData, we provide real-time UK fuel demand data – giving businesses an edge in a fast-moving market. Our monthly reports are used by fuel retailers, wholesalers, traders, logistics firms, oil companies, universities, scrap yards, construction companies, investment banks, and government bodies to stay ahead of the curve.
Whether you’re planning pricing strategies, analysing infrastructure investment, or monitoring market resilience, our aggregated insights help organisations make data-driven decisions based on what’s actually happening on the ground.
Here are some of the May Fuel Trends we identified.
Insights from EdgeData’s May Report
After three consecutive months of like-for-like growth, May 2025 marked a shift for fuel retailers. While margins posted a negative result, the weighted average of 13.5ppl remained broadly in line with recent months, indicating a level of stability, despite the dip.
It’s a noticeable change from May 2024, which delivered a stand-out weighted margin of 14.65ppl – a high point that few would have forecast. In comparison, this year’s figures may feel underwhelming.
But in reality they signal a return to more typical trading conditions after an unusually strong period.
Premium Diesel Gains, Regular Diesel Slips
Year-on-year volumes are up, but a closer look reveals shifting fuel preferences. Regular diesel has seen a monthly decline throughout the first five months of 2025. Meanwhile, super-diesel volumes have been climbing steadily each month.
Although this growth hasn’t yet fully offset the decline in regular diesel, it highlights a clear shift in consumer behaviour. Retailers that maintain full product availability are more likely to benefit as giving drivers more choice can lead to meaningful volume gains over the year.
Margins Down Overall – But Not Across the Board
Despite the headline decline in overall margins, both unleaded grades outperformed May 2024 levels. The downturn has largely been driven by diesel performance, with price pressure especially evident in certain parts of the country.
Scotland, Eastern England, and the South West all experienced sharper margin reductions – likely the result of heightened local price competition. On the other hand, the North East and Wales saw steadier margins despite weaker volume growth, pointing to less-aggressive pricing strategies in those areas.
Volume Stability – A Positive Sign
Despite regional margin challenges, year-to-date volumes remain stable, which is a strong sign for the broader economic outlook. In a market that is still adjusting to consumer shifts and competitive pricing, sustained volume suggests resilience and a steady demand baseline.
Looking Ahead
As we head into summer, the focus for retailers should be on responsiveness – staying attuned to consumer behaviour, regional competition, and margin pressures. Having timely, accurate data remains the key advantage in a market where stability is no longer a given but an outcome that must be actively managed.
Need deeper insights?
For a more detailed breakdown of performance by fuel grade and region, download the full May 2025 report for the latest May Fuel Trends.
