Taverham Filling Station
Gulf Retail's signing of the 3 million litre Taverham Filling Station from Jet represents another significant step forward in its continuing business growth in East Anglia.
For Zep and Trudi Ciarla, the husband and wife team that run the family business in Taverham, near Norwich, joining the Gulf network has boosted sales and improved the site's appearance. The future for a business established more than 30 years ago remains vibrant and profitable.
"We had been with Jet for more than 20 years and the brand's historic association with the site meant that when we changed over, many of our regulars initially thought we had moved on," explains Trudi Ciarla. "We then had a setback when a chip pan fire in an adjacent building meant the site was closed for 10 days. You could say it was not an ideal start to our relationship with Gulf but since re-opening things are just getting better and better. Deliveries are on time, sales are up and the new image has boosted the appearance of the site."
Trudi has been part of the family business most of her life and takes the business issues that face petrol retailers on a daily basis in her stride. Her and her husband took control of the business following the death of her father in November 2004.
A rapid learning curve followed and now the couple manage a thriving operation.
The business is geared towards a large local community with great emphasis upon service levels. The forecourt comprises 4 pump islands with 13 nozzles, 2 jet washes and a shop. There is also a car sales site and workshop.
Outside of the business, Trudi is an ardent Norwich City fan, whilst Zep, known by his regulars as a football-mad Italian, is an established part of the local community through his coaching of a local football team. He has been the manager for more than 10 years and his beloved under 10's are now 19 plus, still coached by Zep and playing in a men's league.
"Football is a great release from the pressures of the business," continues Trudi, "and customers are always ready to give their opinions on Norwich City or Zep's team, Ceyms. Zep will shortly be celebrating his 40th birthday and I'm sure the forecourt will be pretty lively around that time.
Latest News
2008 Le Mans Winner comes to Bedale
05th September 2008
Aston Martin visits John Gill Limited.
Read More…
