Derelict Site Turned Dream Petrol Station Franchise
An abandoned West Yorkshire franchise petrol station has been revitalised by a complete refit and an ambitious Gulf dealer.
Nithu opened Gulf Flush Filling Station back in January, turning a once derelict petrol station into a thriving amenity for the community – and his dream into a reality. After being closed for more than three years, Nithu’s petrol station franchise cost £184k to refit and now offers a 24/7 forecourt selling all four grades of fuel.
An ambitious Gulf Dealer
The site is the third petrol pump franchise operated by Nithu, who runs two other Gulf sites in Sheffield and Leeds on a leasehold basis – but this is the first site he’s owned.
David Hobson, Certas Energy Area Business Manager, knew of Nithu’s ambition to have his very own site.
David said: “When the site became available, I contacted Nithu and arranged a meeting for the following day as I knew it had great potential. Once a deal had been agreed, we supported Nithu with suggestions for pump suppliers and installers, as well as assisting with the cleaning of the tanks so they were ready for use.”
Building a competitive petrol franchise
Gulf Flush Filling Station’s biggest USP is a beer cave, stocked with lagers, ciders and IPAs from around the world. The beer cave has given the site a competitive edge, even over the neighbouring ASDA superstore – and now makes up around 45% of weekly shop sales.
Bringing the beer cave to life was a challenge due to the site having had its alcohol license revoked under the previous owner. But Nithu rebuilt trust with the Kirklees Council Licensing Panel and local authority to be granted petrol and alcohol licenses.
Nithu said: “It was hard work, and I had to prove myself to the council and local authority because of the site’s history. But all my efforts paid off. It was a very good decision to set up my own business.”
Proud to be part of Gulf
The premier shop has also been a hit with the locals – kitted out with Costa Coffee and slush machines, as well as selling local produce and hot food-to-go from Rollover. Moving forward, Nithu plans to install EV chargers and a self-service car wash to further enhance his petrol garage franchise offering.
Nithu loves working with Gulf and says: “As a Gulf dealer, you get good bargains from them – especially good fuel prices and great customer service. I’ve worked with David for the last two years and he’s helped a lot! Whatever we need, they can always help. I feel really comfortable with Gulf.”
