Karl Rashid, whose father owns a two-site forecourt business, has bought his own petrol filling station with his wife Olivia in Welford, Northamptonshire.
The married couple bought Gulf Welford Petrol Station last December, and have been putting their stamp on the business by changing the fuel brand from Inver, and introducing the Londis shop fascia.
Karl, a former mechanic, and Olivia, a qualified nurse, wanted to run their own business to build a better life for their three children.
Aged 39 now, Karl had since 2008 been working with his father Karim Rashid, who has garages in Thrapston, Northamptonshire, and Frilford, Oxfordshire.
“We have a young family and Covid really made us take stock of our lives and think about how we could have more security and autonomy over our lives,” says Karl.
“I have always been told if you work for yourself, you know your job is safe. I grew up around petrol stations because my dad is in the industry, so it was a natural step for me.
“It’s a bit more of a dramatic career change for Olivia, but she’s taken to it really well. It’s a real partnership, we work well together.”
The two pump site – which has an 18,000 litre and 13,200 litre diesel tank, and 13,200 litre and 9,200 litre unleaded petrol tanks – also has a garage with an MOT test centre, with six employees, including a full-time mechanic.
The couple have already been granted an alcohol licence for the shop, and will continue to sell fresh, locally produced eggs, plus sandwich rolls made by the local pub The Wharf Inn.
Long-term plans include a rebuild of the site, to introduce a couple more pumps, and an expanded workshop business.
Karl says that he chose Certas Energy as his fuel supplier because he already had a good relationship with its area manager Sam Edwards. “He offered me a good deal, I knew he’d be reliable, and it’s been great so far. I’m really happy.
“We’ve got a new Gulf fascia which looks really impressive, especially when it’s all lit up – we’ve had quite a few positive comments about how smart it looks especially car enthusiasts because they really like the Gulf design and nostalgia.”
Karl says that he is excited to have taken over such a well looked after site, which the previous owner had for 38 years.
“From day one it felt special because it’s our own site,” he adds. “Everything has come together and we’re really positive about the future”
Certas Energy’s Sam Edwards is optimistic for the couple’s venture: ”Their commitment, drive, and shared vision—especially in building a future for their young family— will undoubtedly be the foundation of their success. I look forward to supporting them as they grow their business and create something truly lasting together,” he says.
