Prices – They continue to be volatile, but have dropped in the last two days. Please call the Office for daily updated prices. Prices usually received from all the suppliers by 10.30am.
Joe Energy are a new Fuel Supplier to the group. Their coverage is within the Swindon area encompassing various SN Post Code, also limited coverage in certain GL Post Codes.
Delivery Lead Times – 3 to 5 working days, dependant on the Supplier and the area they cover,
For electricity enquiries please contact Stuart in the office or email – stuart@ofg.org.ukfor any other enquiries please visit our CONTACT page
written by Phil Shirley
UK Fuel Market Update – 6 August 2026
Rising oil prices and an early harvest tighten the fuel market
Fuel prices are facing renewed upward pressure as geopolitical uncertainty combines with exceptionally early harvest demand across the UK.
Crude oil prices strengthened during July following further disruption to the ceasefire involving Iran. Although international oil flows have improved since the most severe disruption earlier this year, the situation remains unsettled and prices continue to react quickly to political developments. The International Energy Agency reported North Sea crude trading at around $77 per barrel in early July, up from approximately $68 per barrel in June. IEA Oil Market Report
This volatility is feeding through to UK wholesale diesel, gas oil and heating oil prices.
An unusually early harvest
The 2026 harvest is the earliest recorded by AHDB since its reporting began in 2006. Hot, dry conditions brought combining forward by two to three weeks in parts of southern and eastern England, creating a sharp and earlier-than-expected increase in agricultural fuel demand. AHDB harvest update
With winter wheat harvesting progressing rapidly and other crops following closely behind, gas oil stocks are being used faster than would normally be expected at this point in the season.
This concentrated demand is placing additional pressure on an already tight middle-distillate market. Reduced UK refining capacity and greater reliance on imported products also leave domestic prices more exposed to international supply conditions, shipping costs and movements in the oil market.
What this means for farming businesses
Current conditions do not necessarily indicate a shortage of fuel, but availability and lead times may vary as suppliers manage high seasonal demand. Prices are also likely to remain changeable rather than following a clear downward trend.
For farms still harvesting—or preparing for cultivations, drying and autumn operations—the practical priority is to avoid leaving orders until tanks are close to empty. A delayed delivery during a busy harvest window can cost considerably more in lost time than maintaining a sensible working reserve.
Looking ahead
The fuel market is expected to remain sensitive over the coming weeks. Developments in the Middle East will continue to influence crude oil prices, while strong agricultural demand may maintain pressure on gas oil availability until the main harvest rush begins to ease.
For now, the message is straightforward: plan fuel requirements early. Harvest is unpredictable enough without adding an empty tank to the list
Please note that any opinions expressed in this update are sources from market information / analysis and do not represent views of Orion Farming Group. Orion Farming Group accepts no responsibility for any Member decisions made on the basis of information provided in the weekly fuel update.
