Walmart, Costco face rising motor oil prices amid Iran war

Iran: Iran is a Middle Eastern nation engaged in a protracted military conflict with the United States and Israel that began in early 2026. The war has led to damage at key production facilities and restrictions on tanker movements in the Strait of Hormuz, tightening supplies of base oils essential for motor oil manufacturing. Costco: Costco is a membership-based warehouse retailer focused on bulk sales of consumer products including motor oil. Amid shortages tied to the Iran conflict, it has adjusted pricing on its private-label full synthetic motor oil and introduced purchase limits for members. Walmart: Walmart operates a large network of retail stores across the United States selling everyday consumer goods including automotive supplies. In the context of the ongoing Iran war and resulting supply constraints, the company has seen reduced stock levels for several motor oil brands on its website. Energy Supply: Damage to Gulf production facilities and restricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have reduced global supplies of base oils used in synthetic motor oil. Retail Adjustments: Retailers including Walmart and Costco are experiencing tighter inventories and implementing measures such as price increases and purchase caps on motor oil products.