Our mystery shopper visits one of the outlets of this innovative and quirky Glasgow-based chain.
Time of visit: Midday, 28 December 2023
Kerb appeal
This is one of 10 forecourts and convenience outlets in the Glasgow area run by the expanding and award-winning group. A relatively compact site on the main Duntocher Road in the prosperous suburb of Bearsden, northwest of the city, it comprises a two-storey retail unit and a Revolution (now Wash ME) open-air launderette. There is also vehicle access to a neighbouring MOT centre (a separate business).
Pump action
There are two BP-branded fuel islands, each with four pumps, under a canopy, together with twin bays offering jet wash, air, vacuum and screen wash. Outside bunkers offer barbecue briquettes, de-icing salt and screen wash, as well as cages of Calor and patio gas.
There were no electric car charging points, but then it is in a middle class area where homes would have space for their own charging points.
Store style
I was familiar with the group’s reputation for innovation and retail pzazz and was keen to see one of its stores in the flesh. To describe RaceTrack Pitstop as somewhere to buy fuel and top-up or impulse products would be a hopeless understatement. The business is an emporium of indulgent delights – from a dessert bar to a Tubbees pick n mix and a Hoagies self-serve burgers, chicken bakes, and pasties section, a Subway concession and installation of no fewer than 57 slushie pumps. There is also a Costa Coffee machine, a wine and beer cave, complete with beer kegs and draft beer machines to purchase, and the biggest protein powder section I have seen outside a health food shop – the outlet is clearly popular with fitness as well as sugar fanatics.
The branding is slightly confusing. From the outside, the logo and red-trimmed black cladding on the two-storey building hints at a motor racing theme – you might expect a retail offering heavy on car accessories. Instead, the experience inside is more Willy Wonka than Brands Hatch – a confection of bright colours and signage with US retro influences.
The structure itself is interesting, with a mezzanine above half the ground floor containing a seating area and toilets – though shoppers must ask staff for access.
The diversity and sheer range of products suggests this is very much a destination outlet, particularly for the sweet-toothed. While there is everything you might expect from a forecourt convenience store, including a modest refrigerated produce offering, car care products, petcare and general grocery items, there is so much else besides. For vapers, there are eight double units of smoking alternatives. There are cigars, draft beer machines and an array of noodle pots.
There is a large section of on-trend American confectionery and impulse giant pickles, and energy drinks and energy bars. And in terms of brands, household names are outnumbered by tertiary and imported labels, although there is a good selection of Scottish-sourced goods too, including Mackie’s ice cream tubs and locally sourced fresh cakes and bakery items.
On a mission
We were looking for some out of the ordinary snack inspiration and had heard this was the place to come locally to fuel up. It did not disappoint.
At your convenience
The toilet was not as glamorous as we had expected from such an exciting establishment, despite the changing colour neon lighting. It was practical, however, spacious and with handrails, and impeccably clean.
Anything else?
Staff were friendly and attentive. There were some gaps on the shelves, as you might expect a couple of days after Christmas, but generally the shop was well-stocked and busy with most customers not purchasing fuel. The store is linked to the Snappy Shopper fast delivery app, as well as Just Eat for its desserts including crepes, pancake stacks, and waffles, and power shakes.
Thumbs up for:
Imagination and range of product. A truly unique offering in the sector.
Thumbs down for:
Hard to find fault. A very eclectic, individual and almost eccentric feel which might baffle those looking for a more conventional forecourt set-up.
