Marketing Gourmet Food and Petrol Together: Can it work?
Is it possible to to sell gourmet food, wine and petrol all at the same place 24 hours a day… and have it work? Before my recent trip to Tasmania I would have thought no. But despite being ‘marketing challenged’ by Davies Grand Central in Launceston I am inspired by their flexibility to meet the needs of customers and stay relevant in a changing market place.
Davies Grand Central is a family owned business that has been in operation since 1928. They operate out of a petrol station and yet instead of the usual fast food, packet of chips and chocolate bars they sell fresh organic produce and packaged gourmet food. They also have a cafe service which provides a range of healthy and hearty snacks that meet specific dietary requirements along with the best coffee I tasted in Tassie.
Are you ready for the next surprise? They are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Despite flinching when I read the word ‘fuel’ in the same sentence as gourmet food and wine in their promotional material, I have to applaud Davies for pulling off a very brave brand extension. They have developed a selection of products and services that work for the locals and tourists alike. They have modernised their offering and positioned their business in a unique and relevant way for this generation. They now just need a website!
Great post Alisa!
I have been there and it IS rather confusing until you actually enter the store then there is a vast array of local products!
Thought you might have “touched em up” for a website, that’s how I have got a couple in my day. I ALWAYS ask: “Have you got a website?” 90% it is nah or yep BUT it is out of date, needs works etc. Great way to generate new biz!
Thanks Frank – sounds like a good idea I’ll give them a buzz.