High street chains have been accused of ramping up prices on motorway service areas, following a What Car? survey. Researchers shopped for seven items in the WH Smith branches of 10 service stations and found prices were between 3% and 91% higher than on the high street.

They also shopped for five items in M&S Simply Food, and found that prices were between 7% and 25% higher on the motorway. Coffee and fast food, such as Burger King, also carried a hefty premium.

The report claimed the Department for Transport was concerned that motorists were facing ‘unreasonably high prices’ in motorway services. Roads Minister Mike Penning was quoted: “I am considering ways to reduce regulation, increase competition and improve the quality of service.”