By David Watt
Customers have high expectations when they step into retail establishments today, and convenience-gas sites are no exception. That’s why Parkland Fuel Corporation teamed up with FormaShape to help revamp their Fas Gas Plus sites with new canopy cladding.
“The upgraded canopy banding was required in order for us to redefine ne our image to a newer and more modern look,” says Josh Radtke, construction project manager with Parkland Fuel Corporation. “We recognized that the canopy can establish an important first impression with consumers and help reinforce the quality of the product offer available.
“Through extensive research, FormaShape was identified as the leader in this field.”
With a vision in mind, Radtke and his team worked with FormaShape throughout the course of a year to refine the design using FormaShape’s “SilkTek Curved Composite Material” for the fascia on Parkland’s RaceTrac and Fas Gas Plus branded c-gas sites.
Craig Poffenroth, fuel marketing manager for Parkland Fuel Corporation, says the canopy renovations, undertaken at more than 25 sites to date, are part of a larger site refresh plan to attract more consumers to Fas Gas Plus, and improve the equity of the brand.
Along with the new canopy treatment, these refreshed sites feature new pumps, including the pay-at-the-pump option. Improvements were also made to the in-store environment, introducing an expanded foodservice offering and updated decor, from the washrooms and color palette to the lighting and more energy efficient equipment.
“What we sought to do was to not only update our facilities, but really try to take a look at what customers were looking for within those facilities,” explains Poffenroth. “The changes have been made to provide a more appealing environment and incite customers to visit more often, and spend more when they do.”
Poffenroth says FormaShape’s canopy cladding plays a big role in making a positive first impression on customers, and that the results of the total site makeovers have shown the benefits of this collaboration.
“Key results are an increase in both our fuel sales and our c-store sales at these [renovated] sites, as well as a significant increase in our overall satisfaction ratings from customers,” says Poffenroth. “The results have not only had a positive impact on our current customers, but also with new customers who have been attracted by the changes we made.”
With the upgraded sites already reaping the renovation rewards, Parkland will continue to refresh more sites each year. Radtke says Parkland’s work with FormaShape has helped form the foundation for their updated image.
“The expertise brought by the FormaShape team and the input of the Parkland team have provided a modern, attractive look that we can build off for years to come.”
For more information, contact: FORMASHAPE Bren Steele 250.766.6633 www.formashape.com
