Petro-Canada is set to implement a change in how customers purchase fuel at its Ontario locations. Starting September 3, 2024, the majority of Petro-Canada stations across the province will require customers to prepay for their fuel, either at the pump or inside the store.
This move marks a shift in the company’s operational strategy, aligning Ontario with practices already common in other parts of Canada. The decision comes as part of a broader industry trend addressing safety concerns and combating fuel theft, issues that have gained prominence in recent years.
The corporation emphasizes that this proactive change aims to ensure safety at their locations while simultaneously reducing the risk of fuel theft.
The timing of this policy implementation, immediately following the Labour Day long weekend, suggests a strategic approach to minimize disruption during the busy summer travel season. Petro-Canada has assured customers that they will be well-informed of the change through signage at stations and additional communication efforts.
While Petro-Canada is taking a lead in implementing this policy across its Ontario network, it’s part of a larger conversation within the fuel retail industry. The Canadian Fuels Association reports that approximately 78% of gas stations in Canada are independently owned, allowing individual retailers to make their own decisions regarding prepayment policies.
Other major players in the industry are also addressing these concerns. Shell, for instance, has already implemented prepayment systems in jurisdictions with existing legislation or at locations deemed high-risk for theft. In Ontario, where such legislation doesn’t exist, Shell continues to assess each site based on safety, security, and customer needs.
The move towards prepayment comes against a backdrop of increasing fuel thefts across Canada. While Petro-Canada has not disclosed specific figures, other provinces have reported significant spikes in fuel-related crimes. In Saskatchewan, for example, RCMP data showed a 70% increase in fuel thefts in 2022 compared to the previous year.
What are you supposed to do if you fill the tank every time you stop, something which is especially important if you’re driving in northern, more isolated places where gas stations are far apart? How do you know how much is in the tank before it’s full? What happens if you miscalculate and overpay?
Road trips are going to soon be as frustrating as air travel.
Aim high and you’re only charged for what you use
When ever you prepay you get charged for the amount you fill up only. Suppose you prepay for $50
And filled up only $45 you payment will be adjusted automatically and will changed only $45. That is how all gas stations in North America works.
One can always guess how much gas they need to fill up or what ever their budget is at that time for gas.
I highly appreciate the policy of pre-pay. In my knowledge 3 men have already lost their lives on the hands of gas thieves. It will be a huge relief for men and women working behind the gas stations tills. Brave Petro Canada.
Terrible policy very inconvenient for the customer. Petro Canada is always the highest price. How about some service. Put someone outside to pump the gas and let them do the running.