ASDA has implemented a significant change in its payment policy by discontinuing cash transactions at 82 petrol stations across the United Kingdom. This shift, which began in 2022, has caused frustration among many motorists, particularly those who rely on cash or have limited funds available in their bank accounts.
Research indicates that at these petrol stations, customers are now required to pay by card only, which often involves a pre-authorisation hold of up to £99. This figure marks a stark contrast to the previous standard hold of just £1, leading to unexpected temporary blocks on bank accounts for drivers filling up their vehicles. The pre-authorisation process, which is designed to ensure that funds are available to cover potential fuel costs, is mandated by payment processors such as Visa and Mastercard.
Many drivers have expressed surprise at the impact of this change, particularly those with lower bank balances who may struggle with a hold of this magnitude. While the excess funds are typically released after a short period once fueling is complete, this delay can create significant inconvenience for individuals facing financial constraints.
To mitigate these issues, ASDA has advised customers that they can avoid the pre-authorisation hold by opting to pay inside at the kiosk rather than at the pump. A spokesperson for ASDA explained, “This was the case at their forecourts, with the fee only applied to pay-at-pump transactions, and drivers can typically avoid paying it by using their card at the filling station kiosk.”
The Move Toward Digital Transactions
This shift away from cash payments aligns with a broader trend in the UK, where over 90% of transactions are already conducted digitally. The decline of cash transactions is evident, leading to concerns among customers who prefer cash or who may experience difficulties with card payment freezes.
For the 82 ASDA petrol stations affected, the transition to card-only payments means that cash transactions have been completely eliminated. The following locations are now operating under this new policy: Aberdare, Ashington, Barnsley, Bideford, Birchwood, Bolton, Bootle Strand, Bradford, Bridge of Dee, Bristol Whitchurch, Byker, Caerphilly, Cannock, Canterbury, Cardiff Bay, Chadderton, Charlton, Clayton Green, Colchester, Colne, Corby, Cumbernauld, Darlington, Derby, Donnington Wood, Dudley, Eastlands, Eastleigh, Elgin, Falmouth, Fareham, Fleetwood, Gloucester, Golborne, Govan, Grantham, Great Bridge, Great Yarmouth, Greenhithe, Hartlepool, Havant, High Wycombe, Horwich, Hulme, Hunts Cross, Ipswich, Kettering, Kilmarnock, Kingswood, Kirkcaldy, Leigh, Lincoln, Mansfield, Merthyr Tydfil, Middleton Park, Minworth, Morley, Newport, Isle of Wight, Newtonards, Norwich, Nottingham, Oldbury, Patchway, Pentwyn, Portlethen, Queslett, Queensferry, Radcliffe, Rochdale, Runcorn, Shirley, Skelmersdale, Slough, Sunderland, Swansea, Swindon, Swindon (Haydon), Watford, Westbrook, Woking, Sheerwater, Wrexham, and York.
As the landscape of payments continues to evolve, customers are left grappling with the implications of these changes. The move towards predominantly digital transactions raises questions about accessibility for all consumers, particularly those who still rely on cash. The situation highlights the need for a balance between modern payment methods and the diverse needs of the customer base.
