That is a surprise. Just a one-off I expect. Do we know which of the two petrol stations it was? If they persist with this line then know doubt the other petrol station will be rubbing their hands with glee.

From the article it sounds like the guy was asked to remove his lid when trying to pay. On the odd occasion that has happened to me, I pointed out that they have already served me - the remaining question is only whether they are going to accept or decline my offer of payment. Invariably they accept it