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Shropshire HGV training firm riding out record diesel prices
Overview
Record-breaking fuel prices in the UK have forced Shropshire-based HGV and bus training firm Dulson Training to absorb significantly higher filling costs. Managing director Steve Dulson explained that because customers are quoted in advance while going through their licensing pipeline, the business cannot easily pass on the hundreds of pounds in extra costs. The price surge follows international diesel supply constraints driven by the Middle East conflict that began in February.
Key points
- The average price of diesel in the UK reached a record high of 199.33p a litre.
- Dulson Training faces hundreds of pounds in extra costs to fill each training lorry compared to previous prices.
- The firm finds it difficult to raise prices mid-pipeline because customers have already been quoted by the time they reach practical training.
- Rising fuel costs are attributed to international supply constraints linked to the Middle East conflict that started on 28 February.
- The family-run business has attempted minor fuel savings by adjusting routes and extending breaks, but may need to increase prices next year if conditions persist.