Driver shortage hits Hoyer fuel deliveries for BP prompting panic buying fears

Deliveries of fuel to BP stations across the country are being restricted due to the industry-wide driver shortage.

BP said it was working with its supplier Hoyer to minimise disruption and to ensure diesel and unleaded fuel continued to be supplied to stations, but that “a handful of sites” would temporarily close.

Motortransport.co.uk also understands oil giant Shell is experiencing shortages at some of its stations, although it is not thought to be considering closing any sites.

Logistics UK responded to the news by urging people not to panic buy and demanding the government resolves the “very serious” problems in the industry.

There are more than 1,200 BP filling stations in the UK, including around 600 bunker sites specifically designed for HGVs.

A BP spokeswoman said: “We are experiencing some fuel supply issues at some of our retail sites in the UK and unfortunately have therefore seen a handful of sites temporarily close due to a lack of both unleaded and diesel grades.

“These have been caused by some delays in the supply chain which has been impacted by the industry-wide driver shortages across the UK and there are many actions being taken to address the issue.

“We continue to work with our haulier supplier to minimise any future disruption and to ensure efficient and effective deliveries to serve our customers.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused.”

It is understood that BP petrol stations on motorways will be prioritised and restocked as normal.

Hoyer, which provides fuel delivery services to both BP and Shell, did not respond to our calls for comment.