PPolish drivers are watching the pylons of gas stations with growing concern. In recent weeks, the costs of refueling on the Polish market have been disturbing dynamics, approaching further psychological barriers. In response to market turmoil and the threat of a drastic spike in inflation, the country’s largest fuel company took extraordinary steps to cushion the blow to consumer wallets and the transportation sector.
Illustrative photo. Dynamic situation on the fuel market. On the left, a vehicle is being refueled (photo. Pexels).
The specter of PLN 8 per liter: why is fuel becoming so expensive?
Fuel market analysts do not hide their pessimism: the average price of diesel fuel at Polish stations has a real chance of exceeding the historic barrier of PLN 8 per liter in the near future. Experts point out that the current wholesale price dynamics leave little hope for any quick reductions. The main factors behind this drastic jump are the instability in global energy markets, unfavorable exchange rate fluctuations, and constantly rising logistics costs.
For the transportation industry and logistics companies, which constitute the lifeblood of the Polish economy, this means a critical increase in operating costs. Ultimately, expensive transportation will inevitably impact the prices of goods on store shelves, fueling overall inflation. Ordinary drivers are also feeling the pressure, forced to review their household budgets and limit optional trips.
Orlen’s reaction: retail margin reduced to almost zero
Against the backdrop of tense moods among drivers and entrepreneurs, Orlen, the leader of the Polish retail market, decided to a radical step. The company has launched a consumer protection mechanism, slashing retail margins at its branded stations as much as possible. According to market experts, the company’s margin on retail diesel fuel sales has been reduced to virtually zero.
This strategic maneuver aims to stem retail price increases and prevent price shocks at the pumps. Orlen, which manages the largest network of gas stations in the country, acts as a powerful regulator for the entire market. Competitors are forced to adjust to the established price level to retain customers. Giving up retail profits is an extraordinary measure, yet it is precisely this that is currently preventing the market from rapidly breaking the 8 złoty mark.
Forecasts for drivers: what to prepare for?
The national company’s intervention provides important, but temporary, relief to drivers. Artificially freezing prices at the expense of retailer margins cannot last indefinitely and does not solve the fundamental problem of expensive wholesale fuel. In the short term, prices of the popular Pb95 gasoline and diesel will likely stabilize at their current high levels.
“In the week of March 16–22, 2026, the forecast retail fuel prices at stations in Poland are to be within the following ranges: Pb98 petrol PLN 7.29–7.45 per liter, the popular E10 petrol PLN 6.54–6.69 per liter, diesel PLN 7.77–8.01 per liter, and autogas PLN 3.14–3.25 per liter.” – Fuel market experts from the website e-petrol.pl.
Drivers are advised to actively use station mobile apps and loyalty programs. During peak pricing periods, large chains often launch promotional campaigns, offering savings ranging from a few to several dozen cents per liter. The future course of the situation will depend entirely on macroeconomic factors and the stability of global stock markets.
Sources: Orlen.pl / e-petrol.pl / Business Insider Polska
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