As the year-end holidays approach, E. Leclerc makes a masterstroke by relaunching its “fuel at cost price” operation. On December 19 and 20, more than 700 gas stations will allow motorists to fill up without breaking the bank. A welcome initiative before the price increase scheduled for January, which is expected to put a brake on our already tight budgets.
A well-targeted operation
French drivers can rejoice: this weekend, E. Leclerc is resetting the clock with an operation that concerns 711 gas stations across the country. Yes, you heard that right, no less than 711 points of sale where gasoline, diesel, and Superethanol E85 will be offered at cost price. But beware, highway 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 vacation. 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 holiday season where every cent counts, it could make the difference between a peaceful trip and a stressful road trip due to budget constraints. For the vast majority of French drivers, this operation is a boon to seize before prices rise again.
This last operation of the year 2025 will allow for some euros of savings on a fill-up © DR
A perfect timing before the announced increase
The choice of dates is not trivial. E. Leclerc knows full well that many French people will hit the road starting this Friday to celebrate Christmas. This coincides with a price increase expected on January 1, with about five additional cents per liter to anticipate at the pump. This increase is linked to the tightening of Energy Savings Certificates (CEE). Basically, it’s like being told: “Take advantage while it lasts!” So, it’s the perfect opportunity 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 Centers, also spoke about this initiative. He emphasizes the importance of supporting families during this delicate period: “Christmas remains a strong emotional 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 last salvo for 2025
To conclude this series of fuel operations at cost price, E. Leclerc thus closes 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.
