Southern end of town place to thrive

AuthorIlona Hanne
Published date20 October 2021
Publication titleStratford Press
Business owner Gavin Cox says if people venture south of the roundabouts, they are likely to be surprised by just how much is on offer in the area.

Gavin owns six businesses, and the fact five of them are located in the southern end of town is no coincidence.

“It’s a good area, there’s plenty of space for workshops and larger businesses, lots of parking.”

Gavin says the wide range of businesses in the area is great, for staff and shoppers alike.

“It means people can get everything done in one area, no driving around needed.”

One of his newer businesses, Stratford Auto Parts, was set up because he saw a gap in the local market.

“People couldn’t get the parts they needed locally, meaning their cars would be off the road while they waited for something to be delivered.

“We supply individuals as well as the garages in town so there is less waiting time, whether you are fixing your own car or have a mechanic doing it for you.

“We are open on Saturdays as well so people can get on with the job on the weekend, not wait around.”

Since he opened his first business in the location, he has seen plenty of growth in the area Gavin says.

Lynette Barron, who works at Guthrie Bowron Stratford, agrees.

“I’ve been working here for just under six years and have seen the changes. It’s great as there’s a lot more here now, our customers are often surprised by what else they can buy and get done at this end of Stratford.”

The businesses also support each other, she says.

“We all try and support each other, we all shop locally with each other. The New Commercial used our store for their recent redecorating, for example.”

With the Baking Company having opened in the area, that means fresh coffee and baked goods are now just a short walk away, rather than having to head further into town for a lunch break, Lynette’s colleague Jane Hickmott says.

The area has changed a lot since Chris and Maria Merson first opened Central Tyre and Automotive in the area back in 1999. Back then, the area didn’t have half the range of businesses it does now, says Chris.

“It’s got a lot busier over the years, we have grown a lot, but so has the area itself businesswise.”

Since they first opened, the number of employees has more than doubled, and the business has grown substantially.

“We have four fleet service trucks now and do a lot of work on trucks of course, but we also still do the small jobs too, replacing wheelbarrow wheels and fixing scooter tyres.”

Another business enjoying plenty of success...

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