This measure has solidified the trend of users from southern France traveling to the border town to fill their tanks. According to industry sources, the presence of French customers was already common before the global price escalation, but now drivers are observed coming from areas further afield than Perpignan.
The corporate general director of Grup Tramuntana, one of the main companies in the sector in the area, has confirmed the 22% increase in customer volume. This situation has forced the company to adjust its orders to meet the growing demand. Price remains the main attraction for French drivers.
“"It's a customer base that was already coming before, but it's true that since the measure was implemented, we've noticed the increase."
Despite the increase in customers, a slight decrease of 4% has been detected in the amount of liters each driver refuels. This reduction is attributed to the general increase in crude oil prices, leading regular customers not to fill their tanks completely. French drivers express their satisfaction with the Spanish measure and criticize the lack of a similar initiative by the French government.
“"It's really worth coming. The price difference is very interesting, it can be up to 50 or 60 euro cents less per liter compared to gas stations in Northern Catalonia."
Some testimonies indicate that the price difference can lead to considerable savings, up to 20 euros per tank compared to nearby towns in France. There are even customers who travel from cities like Toulouse, more than two hours away, taking the opportunity to fill approved jerry cans.
