Pump Hill Service Station

Patrick Pandya, proprietor of Pump Hill Service Station in Clacton, has turned his forecourt around with the help of Gulf.

Following the opening of a Tesco Superstore 4 miles away, Patrick saw a steady decline in fuel and shop sales. The impact on local businesses was serious and Patrick, an experienced retailer, was not alone in questioning the viability of his business

"When you have a business that you love and believe in, it is a very difficult situation to face," explains a relieved Patrick.

"Gulf had identified the shop as a potential revenue stream but, despite our strong relationship with Gulf, we were reluctant to get them involved because we thought it would involve major investment. After a lot of convincing we took the plunge‚ and are ecstatic with the results. Gulf introduced us to Tony Bailey of Instore Profits and it led to one of the best business decisions we have ever made."

Instore Profits is a specialist shops consultancy with more than 20 years' experience in solving problems in shop retailing. It is Gulf's recommended route for all things shop, a relationship that has flourished with the improving shop performances of Gulf dealers across the UK.

"When Gulf called us, it was evident that we needed to make changes fast," recalls Tony Bailey, Managing Director of Instore Profits.

"Patrick's business is typical of many smaller sites that are not maximizing shop potential and are reluctant to make changes, either because they feel it will require a significant investment or they cannot see the benefits of change. Pump Hill Service Station is in an area of high footfall and clearly had the potential to improve from its 2006 position - a weekly shop turnover of just £1,800."

The only significant investment Instore demanded of Patrick was time and a more disciplined approach to shop management. Instore created a new layout and a fresh shop image. "We were given expert help and advice in obtaining an off-licence and I now have a wide range of wines, beers and spirits and sales are up considerably," continues Patrick. "Tony introduced pet food to Pump Hill and it has become one of our strongest lines with a 60% margin. He certainly knows his stuff; our shop looks more inviting, stocks move more quickly, improving cash flow, and our turnover is now exceeding £7,000 a week. We follow the plans and our instruction booklet like a bible and our improved understanding of sales and trends has made us more confident in trying new products and lines. For minimal outlay we are now profitable, our enthusiasm is back and the future looks healthy."