Absa and Shell partner for July savings

Competition among South Africa’s fuel loyalty programmes is intensifying as banks and fuel brands look for new ways to help motorists manage rising transport costs.

Absa and Shell South Africa have launched a July 2026 fuel benefit offering qualifying customers up to 60% real cashback on petrol and diesel purchases. The promotion forms part of Savings Month and follows several months of fuel price pressure on local households.

Absa customers who fill up at Shell can earn double their usual Absa Rewards rate, depending on their rewards tier. They can also earn Shell V+ rewards of up to R1 per litre on fuel and up to 50 cents per litre on qualifying convenience purchases.

The partnership gives customers access to benefits through both Absa Rewards and Shell V+ at more than 600 Shell service stations nationwide. After the July promotion, Absa Rewards members can continue earning up to 30% real cashback at Shell.

Fuel rewards are becoming an increasingly important factor in where motorists choose to fill up. According to the 2025/26 Truth and BrandMapp Loyalty Whitepaper, 48% of respondents said loyalty programmes influence their fuel-buying decisions, while 45% ranked loyalty as their second most important consideration after location.

Absa says its decision to work with two fuel partners reflects the different travel patterns and preferences of its customers. For motorists, the growing rivalry between loyalty programmes could lead to greater choice, stronger rewards, and more practical savings at the pump.

However, customers should still consider rewards tiers, qualifying criteria, earning caps, and participating locations before choosing a programme based on headline cashback rates alone.