Prices at the pump: CAA-Quebec decries steep retail margins in several regions of the province
Since yesterday, CAA-Quebec has noticed retail margins of more than 20 cents/litre in several regions of Quebec. The organization is concerned about the industry’s delay in relaying to motorists the significant declines in petroleum price indicators that have occurred over the last few days.
Ten most affected regions
This unfortunate situation for motorists is observed more specifically in 10 of the province’s administrative regions.
| Region | Price at the pump (cents/litre) | Retail margin (cents/litre) excluding consumption taxes |
|---|---|---|
| Côte-Nord | 173.4 | 26.8 |
| Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean | 169.4 | 25.0 |
| Bas-Saint-Laurent | 170.4 | 23.4 |
| Centre-du-Québec | 171.9 | 23.4 |
| Mauricie | 171.4 | 23.1 |
| Estrie | 171.9 | 23.1 |
| Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine | 170.4 | 22.1 |
| Capitale-Nationale | 169.9 | 21.8 |
| Chaudière-Appalaches | 169.9 | 21.7 |
| Abitibi-Témiscamingue | 165.4 | 20.4 |
Consequently, the prices listed at the pump are well above the realistic prices calculated by CAA-Quebec on Gasoline Watch.
While retail margins of more than 20 cents/litre have occasionally been observed in some regions during 2022 (in March, April and July) in Quebec, such a situation rarely lasts longer than one day.
Meanwhile, in Greater Montreal
Whereas drivers in the above-mentioned regions pay a lot for their gasoline (up to 173.4 cents/litre), those in the Greater Montreal area can fill up for 155.9 cents/litre. However, the acquisition cost for Montreal retailers is among the highest in the province due to the dedicated tax for public transit.
CAA-Quebec believes that the industry must explain to motorists the basis for such high retail margins and important price differences listed at the pump in each region.
About CAA-Quebec
CAA-Quebec, a not-for-profit organization, assists each of its members by providing benefits, products and services in the areas of mobility, travel, insurance and housing. CAA is the number one most trusted brand in Canada, according to the 2022 edition of the annual Brand Trust Index published by the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business at the University of Victoria.
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