Commerce Commission takes BP to court over alleged fuel discount failures

The Commerce Commission says it will file charges against fuel company BP, alleging customers were not given advertised fuel discounts and were charged incorrect prices at BP Connect service stations.

The regulator confirmed it will bring proceedings in the Auckland District Court under the Fair Trading Act, following an investigation launched in April 2025 after a series of customer complaints.

Those complaints centred on motorists who said they purchased fuel at BP Connect sites, scanned their Everyday Rewards cards, but did not receive the advertised discounts.

Commerce Commission deputy chair Anne Callinan said the case reflects expectations that large businesses ensure pricing systems and promotional offers are applied correctly at the point of sale.

“We expect big businesses to take the time and effort to get pricing and promotions right,” Callinan said.

“Consumers should be able to trust the information they receive when they are buying goods and services.”

She added that customers offered a discount “must receive that benefit when they pay”, saying she had “limited patience” for well-resourced companies that fail to invest properly in systems that ensure pricing accuracy.

The Commission alleges the issues relate specifically to BP Connect service stations, which are owned and operated by BP, and do not extend to independently operated BP 2go outlets.

The regulator said its investigation examined whether customers were charged more than expected due to promotional discounts not being correctly applied at checkout.

Following its initial investigation, BP introduced system changes and investment aimed at preventing similar issues. However, the Commission said further inquiries identified another instance where customers allegedly did not receive the advertised price.

“This instance is concerning, not only because it raises questions about the effectiveness of the company’s changes, but also as it was within the current period of higher fuel prices,” Callinan said.

The regulator noted most of the alleged conduct occurred before recent fuel price increases driven by global market volatility.

BP acknowledged the Commission’s decision to commence proceedings, describing the matter as relating to “historical pricing accuracy issues”.

“We have cooperated with the Commission throughout its investigation,” a BP spokesperson said.

“Our focus remains on serving our customers with quality fuels, dependable service, and a consistent experience across our network.”

BP said it would not comment further as the matter is now before the courts.

The Commerce Commission has increased scrutiny of fuel pricing in recent years, particularly amid volatility in global oil markets and geopolitical tensions affecting supply.

It reiterated that the allegations have not been tested in court and that no findings have been made.

No court date has been set.