Woodrow Garage, located in Holt Road, Cawston, has announced that it is permanently closing its forecourt on November 16. Despite generating an annual turnover of £1.7 million, owner Paul Woodrow has disclosed that the business has been operating at a loss, with a daily profit of only £78. As a result, the financial situation has made it no longer feasible to keep the forecourt open, even with the possibility of doubling foot traffic. The high cost of electricity, which amounts to £250 per day, further exacerbates the financial strain. In order to cover the electricity bill, the garage would need to sell 6,000 liters of fuel per day, which is not feasible for the business.
The Woodrow garage, which has been operating in the motor trade since the 1960s, was established in 1985 by Paul’s father, Ralph Woodrow, and the family legacy continues as Paul’s son, Matthew, has also joined the business. Although the forecourt is closing, the garage will remain open, offering services such as MOTs, vehicle repair, diagnostics, car services, and breakdown recovery. With the closure of the forecourt, the family business will undergo changes. Despite the sentimentality attached to the forecourt, Paul and Matthew have expressed that, while it is unfortunate to see it go, the closure is necessary due to financial reasons.
For the staff, the closure represents the end of an era. Nikki Sealsom, the office manager, shared that Paul had kept the business running for the community, yet it has reached the point where it is no longer feasible to continue. Despite the closure of the forecourt, the garage will continue to be a family-run business, with the emphasis on adapting to the financial challenges in order to keep the business operational. Ultimately, Woodrow Garage will be making adjustments to remain viable.
