The Federal Cartel Office has reported a high number of violations of the rule, which mandates that gas stations can only raise prices once a day, specifically at noon. While Office President Andreas Mundt informed the media that many instances of violations appear to be mere technical errors, he also noted significant deviations. However, the enforcement of such breaches is currently hampered by the fact that most federal states have yet to designate the specific authorities responsible for prosecuting these violations.
Mundt also expressed skepticism regarding a recent study published by the ZEW Economic Research Institute. This study suggested that the 12 PM pricing rule failed to lower prices and instead led to increased profit margins for major corporations. Mundt pointed out, however, that the analysis only covered prices, not sales volume, and therefore could not track how many drivers refuelled at what prices. He mused that it was quite possible that many motorists were refueling at a favorable time and consequently benefited from the new regulations.
Given the considerable price differences observed at various gas stations, the top competition watchdog advises all drivers to compare prices using a dedicated app. Furthermore, instead of following the old habit of refueling in the evening, customers are better advised to visit filling stations in the morning, before twelve o’clock. According to Mundt, “The old rules of thumb no longer apply”.
