Nostalgia and brand recognition are expected to help drive sales, as Gulf returns to Canada after 30 years.
After a 30-year absence, Gulf, an iconic fuel brand, is returning to Canada, according to a report by Globe and Mail.
As a part of a multi-million dollar deal in 1985, Gulf was taken over by Petro-Canada, but XTR Energy Company Ltd. has struck a deal with Petro-Canada, and the iconic Gulf brand will soon be re-introduced to Canada. Although it is expected that a sense of nostalgia and brand recognition will help to attract business, Gulf realizes that the company will need to attract more customers than its nostalgia will bring in.
The reintroduction of Gulf is in its early stages, but there are plans being made for loyalty programs to attract business, as well as a great deal of expansion. Gulf hopes to expand to 20 stores within the next year, and to 100 stores within the next five, reported Globe and Mail. Although Gulf may have fans in Canada from when it was a well known business, other businesses may have acquired customer loyalty; therefore, advertising and a unique experience will be crucial elements to the success of this iconic brand.